URBAN RENEWAL Vital, Vibrant Cuisine & Ambiance at Urban Hill

Story Hill Renovations recently undertook a project to modernize a 1922 English Revival brick Tudor home located in Milwaukee’s Kenwood Park–Prospect Hill Historic District. The residence, originally designed by Clas, Shepherd & Clas for Edward and Ida Dahinden, presented the challenge of integrating contemporary living with its historic architectural integrity. The renovation focused on updating the kitchen and bathrooms while preserving the home’s original details, such as the subtly vaulted Gothic plaster living room ceiling, intricate plaster sloped and curved crown molding in the dining room, and original woodwork and radiators throughout the house. Karly Mandell, Story Hill Interior Designer, emphasized the philosophy of modernizing for today’s lifestyle without erasing the past. This approach guided material and fixture selections, with permanent fixtures like millwork, cabinetry, and plumbing adhering to the home's original style. More temporary elements, such as wallpaper, allowed for creative expression. An example of this is the striking skull wallpaper in a first-floor half-bath, which reflects the owners’ desire for a “punk rock country club” aesthetic. Similarly, new millwork and tile in an upstairs guest bathroom were designed to appear original to the century-old home, showcasing a blend of old and new. The historical context of the Dahinden family and the house itself provides a backdrop to the renovation. Edward Joseph Dahinden, born in Milwaukee in 1875, was a prominent businessman who, with his wife Ida, commissioned this home after relocating from the Near West Side to the more desirable upper East Side. The architectural firm of Clas, Shepherd & Clas, led by the renowned Alfred Clas, completed the house and a detached garage in a remarkably short period in 1922 for $22,000. This rapid construction, using skilled craftsmanship, highlights the building practices of the era. The property's ownership history reveals its evolution through different periods, including its brief use as the Fourth Church of Christ Scientist and later as a rooming house, which led to a sale in 1958 due to neighborhood complaints. Subsequent owners maintained the home until the current residents, a young couple, engaged Story Hill Renovations to adapt it to their needs. Their aim was to integrate their modern, eclectic style while respecting the home’s integrity, resulting in updated takes on traditional elements, such as tile wainscotings with cleaner profiles and a modern color scheme for traditional herringbone tile patterns. Expanding the main bathroom presented a significant structural challenge, requiring cantilevering over an existing load-bearing wall. Project Manager Tom Van Heijningen detailed the need for precise execution to protect the ornate plaster wall in the dining room below and manage complex plumbing installations. The project involved nearly 20 trade professionals, coordinating their efforts over six months. A standout feature of the renovated home is the “Yellowstone Room,” an upstairs space with a central fireplace and windows on three sides. This room, reminiscent of a similar space in architect Alfred Clas’s own home, was enhanced by the discovery and restoration of a 1700s chandelier, adding historical depth to the modernized space. The renovation successfully balances the preservation of historical charm with the introduction of contemporary functionality and personal style, ensuring the house continues its story into the future. #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #TudorRevival #MilwaukeeArchitecture #StoryHillRenovations #Modernization #ArchitecturalHistory #ResidentialDesign

A comprehensive renovation project was undertaken for a landmarked five-story brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, prompted by the structural deterioration of its rear wall. The initial repair evolved into a complete top-to-bottom transformation, encompassing significant architectural and interior design changes. The project involved the installation of a new three-story wood and glass window system on the rear facade, enhancing natural light and views. The formerly low-ceilinged attic space was converted into a skylit home office, complete with a kitchenette and access to a newly created roof terrace. The restoration work paid careful attention to preserving historical elements, including the meticulous repair and reinstallation of original lacy plasterwork and other intricate historic details throughout the house. Concurrently, the homeowner, an interior designer, curated an entirely new color palette and furnishings scheme, blending modern aesthetics with the home's 19th-century character. Built in 1850 in the Anglo-Italianate style, the house is part of a unique architectural complex where three row houses are designed to appear as a single, larger mansion. This architectural type, characterized by its approximately 16-foot width and absence of a high stoop, is a notable, albeit rare, feature of the neighborhood. The English basement primarily serves for storage, with utilities entering at this level. The first floor, historically the staff and kitchen area, was reconfigured to improve light, airflow, and sightlines. The front room was preserved as a cozy sitting area with an arched window, while the kitchen and dining area were relocated to the middle and rear, offering expansive views of the backyard. The elegant second floor, known as the _piano nobile_, features a grand staircase leading to a central hall that separates a formal living room at the front from a more casual family room at the rear. The decorative plaster crown moldings on this level were restored, and the staircase was reinforced and given new treads. The third and fourth floors are dedicated to bedrooms, with a primary suite on the third floor and children's rooms on the fourth. The primary suite's layout was reconfigured so that it is entered from a generous hallway in the center of the house, rather than at one end, which is typical for row houses. A fitted closet connects the bedroom and bathroom, with the two-level bathroom design dictated by plumbing considerations. Children's rooms and bathrooms on the fourth floor were designed with vibrant patterns and colors. In the former attic space, The Brooklyn Studio created a functional penthouse study and a central kitchenette/bar area that opens onto an outdoor deck with a brick fireplace. An oval glass insert in the kitchenette floor allows natural light from the new skylight and sliding glass doors to extend to the floor below. The kitchen features a custom brass stove hood, a marble backsplash with prominent veining, and hand-blown glass knobs by Danish artist Nina Norgaard on the stained oak millwork. The design prioritized an airy feel by minimizing upper cabinetry. Throughout the renovation, existing floor structures were maintained where possible, with new parquet veneer flooring laid over original surfaces in some areas to preserve the underlying structure. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #TheBrooklynStudio #HomeOffice #Kitchenette #RoofTerrace #StructuralRenovation

The article highlights the work of Jamie Singer and her company, Crown Control Homes, in preserving and updating historic residences, specifically focusing on a Highland Park Italian Revival mansion at 4209 Beverly Drive. Singer's philosophy revolves around maintaining the original charm and architectural integrity of old homes while incorporating modern functionality and aesthetics. She believes that classic, well-constructed houses possess enduring style and aims to save as many as possible from demolition. The featured Italian Revival home, built in 1927 by Fooshee & Cheek for prominent rancher and farmer John Furneaux, is a prime example of Singer's approach. The previous owner, Mattie, was keen on selling to someone who would restore rather than tear down the property, finding an ideal match in Singer. The 3,958-square-foot house, with three bedrooms and five bathrooms, underwent a rapid, three-month renovation thanks to Singer's meticulous planning and efficient team. Upon entering, the home reveals a foyer with a 9-foot ceiling and a modern Clizia Mama Non Mama Suspension Lamp by Slamp Lighting. The formal living room, wrapped in pickled pecky cypress paneled walls, retains its character with a carved cast stone fireplace, hardwood floors, and deep molding, offering scenic views of the landscaped grounds. Light fixtures were strategically updated throughout the home, such as the Generation Lighting Mellita satin brass pendant chandelier in the formal dining room and a custom Carlyn Ray hand-blown glass pendant chandelier over the stairs, to blend historical context with contemporary design. The kitchen received a significant overhaul, featuring Shaker-style cabinets, glass front upper cabinets, quartz countertops, and a glass-tiled backsplash. All bathrooms were renovated, with the principal bathroom experiencing a wall opening to better suit modern usage. This luxurious primary bathroom now boasts Bianco Puro white marble, brushed brass fixtures, a Restoration Hardware oak washstand, and Calacatta counters. Singer's unique renovation process often involves living in the home during the update. This practice allows her to understand the house's flow and identify practical needs, such as additional shelving, ensuring the renovations are highly functional for contemporary living. Beyond the main house, a 281-square-foot back house was transformed into elegant guest quarters, complete with a kitchenette and full bath. Practical additions include a dog run and a Tesla charging station in the garage. Exterior improvements involved replacing the grounds with new artificial turf and incorporating hydrangeas, Japanese maple, crepe myrtle, and magnolia trees, enhancing the property's curb appeal. The successful rejuvenation of this architecturally significant Highland Park Italian Revival residence is expected to ensure its longevity for another century. The property is currently listed by Teffy Jacobs of Allie Beth Allman & Associates for $4.495 million. #HighlandPark #ItalianRevival #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHeritage #DallasLuxury #CrownControlHomes

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

Architect Alexandra Barker, founder of Gowanus-based Barker Associates Architecture Office, undertook a comprehensive gut renovation of a four-story townhouse in Boerum Hill. The project involved a complete overhaul, addressing every aspect from mechanical systems, kitchen, baths, and flooring to the creation of new moldings. A central design motif in this renovation is the extensive incorporation of curved elements, drawing inspiration from the classic arched doorways found in 19th-century row houses. A significant architectural feature is the installation of a deep vaulted arch with fluted plasterwork on the parlor floor. This arch serves as a strategic element to create a defined threshold between the front and back sections of the floor. This design addresses common challenges associated with open-plan layouts, such as discreetly integrating necessary functions like powder rooms, closets, and bar areas, as well as concealing HVAC elements and other mechanicals, without disrupting the main living spaces. The meticulous execution of this fluted plaster arch required the expertise of a skilled craftsperson from Brooklyn-based SuperStrata, highlighting the project's commitment to detailed craftsmanship. Curves are consistently applied throughout the townhouse, exemplified by the ceiling soffits in the deep-purple garden-level family room. These soffits cleverly conceal lighting, HVAC systems, and window-shade pockets, demonstrating how curves can gracefully integrate utilitarian elements while enhancing the aesthetic. Barker notes that curves contribute to a sense of connection rather than interruption, allowing for more elegant concealment of structural and functional components. The interior design, curated by Barker Associates Architecture Office’s team, features sculptural, contemporary furnishings with a distinct '70s/'80s influence. The color palette deviates from conventional choices, focusing on mushroom, green, and purple tones, deliberately avoiding blue to establish a unique and adventurous ambiance. Notable selections include a white Julep sofa by Tacchini, a hand-knotted Hatsu rug, a custom walnut sideboard, and a gold painted relief by Andrew Zimmerman in the front parlor. The Galatea armchair, sourced from 1stDibs, further contributes to the eclectic and modern-retro aesthetic. The kitchen showcases a custom tambour stove hood, providing textural contrast to the smooth, Shaker-style cabinets painted in Farrow & Ball’s Jitney. The upper cabinets are designed to appear more like furniture than built-ins by not extending to the ceiling. Calacatta Vagli Viola marble, with its pronounced veins of mushroom, purple, and green, was chosen for the countertops and backsplash, serving as a foundational color template for the entire house. The dining area features a curved pantry cabinet, a pale oak dining table from Maiden Home, and Giraffe chairs by Juliana Lima Vasconcellos. The second floor, housing the primary suite, continues the curved theme with multiple arches defining room divisions and framing the walk-in closet. The primary bedroom is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Pegnoir with a mottled treatment by Faux Coos. The primary bath includes a freestanding tub with a steel casement window overlooking the garden, and features green onyx for the vanity top and shower lining. A new circular skylight on the top floor extends the curvilinear design to the highest level of the building, enhancing natural light and architectural interest. Additional spaces include a taupe guest bedroom with a green velvet bed and clay pendant lamps, and a son’s room featuring trompe l’oeil arcade wallpaper by Monologue, chartreuse stools, and a custom capsule-shaped rug. The home office incorporates custom tambour millwork and specialized lighting. The garden-level playroom is furnished with an iconic Togo chair, a La Pepino chaise, and a Squiggle rug, reflecting a playful yet sophisticated design. The aubergine-colored family/media room, complete with an inset marble bar and steel-framed windows, offers a luxurious setting. A second powder room on the garden level features black and white marble, maintaining the elegant and bold material choices throughout the renovation. #BoerumHill #TownhouseRenovation #CurvedArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ModernFurnishings #ArchitecturalFeatures #ColorPalette #CustomMillwork

TEAM_BLDG undertook a comprehensive renovation of an apartment complex in a dense urban village in downtown Guangzhou, China. The original building, a matchbox-type house complex constructed between the 1950s and 1960s, required significant alterations and additions to meet the contemporary needs of its occupants. The project aimed to improve the quality of the community and living environment, particularly for young office workers who constitute a significant portion of the area's population. The renovation began with transforming the building's façade, which previously presented an old and dirty appearance. The design team sought to eliminate this negative impression and establish a new benchmark for long-term rental apartment brands. The new façade is intended to enhance the integration of the urban village with the broader city while preserving the local community's cohesion. After extensive research, the architects selected wavy punched aluminum plates to wrap the façade, extending from the atrium's two ends to the exterior. This pattern was chosen to subtly reference the original façade's mosaic splicing while also acting as a semi-transparent layer that visually lightens the building's mass. This reconstructed exterior highlights a deliberate contrast between new and old design languages, fostering a symbiosis among the diverse buildings within the urban landscape, characterized by varying sizes and textures. Simultaneously, the interior spaces underwent a redesign focused on promoting neighborhood interaction and communal activities. The corridor was reconfigured with staggered floors, and walls were strategically 'cut' to create both public and private resting areas. A significant aspect of the interior renovation involved the inner yard. The original structures within the yard were cleaned, and essential utilities like cords, lines, and pipes were meticulously organized to ensure the space's openness and comfort. The refurbished apartment complex now includes various public amenities such as a gym and audio-visual rooms, catering to the residents' needs. For improved accessibility, an elevator was installed at the entrance, providing convenient access to all floors. From a construction standpoint, the project prioritized both cost-effectiveness and efficiency. This was achieved through the extensive use of prefabricated building materials, including terrazzo floor tiles and dry-hung metal sheets. The integration of interior and landscape architecture elements throughout the design reflects a holistic approach to urban renewal. The project successfully addresses the challenges of modern urban living by providing a refreshed aesthetic, enhanced community spaces, and improved functionality, ultimately redefining the living experience within this historically dense urban village. #UrbanRenovation #ApartmentComplex #GuangzhouChina #ResidentialArchitecture #FacadeDesign #CommunitySpaces #PrefabricatedMaterials #InteriorRedesign #SustainableRenovation

This article is the second part of a five-week series detailing the design project of the Hilltop Estate, specifically focusing on its living and dining areas. The living room and dining room are presented as a cohesive, larger space, characterized by a high ceiling vault. The design approach emphasizes a sense of continuity, achieved through elements like uniform drapery and symmetrical chandeliers. The color palette employed throughout these spaces is softened, featuring peaceful and calming tones, with black accents strategically used to complement the bold steel windows. In the living room, a focal point is created by built-in shelving constructed around a limestone fireplace. The design pays meticulous attention to molding details and the selection of décor accessories. A notable feature within the built-in shelving is a flannel-textured wallpaper backdrop, adding a subtle textural dimension to the space. The article highlights the Studio McGee design approach of mixing furniture styles, illustrated by the use of spindle lounge chairs that complement a cream-colored sofa without being an exact set. Furthermore, a blue-gray sofa with a distinct shape and upholstery is incorporated, contributing to a diverse yet harmonious furniture arrangement. Shea McGee, the designer, articulates the design objective for the living space: to create an environment that feels elegant and refined but remains comfortable and practical for the clients' lifestyle. This balance between aesthetics and livability is a core principle guiding the design decisions for the Hilltop Estate. The dining room, which adjoins the living area, features two prominent long walls. These walls are utilized to introduce height and scale into the space. One wall is adorned with a sideboard and a mirror, which not only serves a functional purpose but also reflects the surrounding views, enhancing the room's spaciousness. The opposite wall features a large hutch, providing both aesthetic interest and valuable storage capacity, contributing to the room's overall functionality and style. The integration of these elements ensures that the dining room, while distinct, maintains the overarching design philosophy and aesthetic continuity established in the living room. The article underscores the thoughtful consideration given to every detail, from architectural features to furniture selection and decorative accents, all working in concert to create a sophisticated yet comfortable living and dining experience within the Hilltop Estate. The design aims to blend traditional and modern elements seamlessly, resulting in a timeless and inviting home. #HilltopEstate #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDesign #DiningRoomDesign #HomeDecor #DesignContinuity #FurnitureStyling #StudioMcGee

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

Ghiora Aharoni, principal of Ghiora Aharoni Design Studio, undertook a renovation project on his apartment located in a 1903 tenement building on Leroy Street in the West Village. His approach to combining two separate apartments into a single modern living space involved a process akin to an archaeological excavation. The primary goal was to integrate contemporary living with a reverence for the building's original architectural character and materials. This involved stripping the apartments down to their structural foundations, exposing elements that had been concealed for decades. The renovation began with the removal of walls, leading to the discovery of 1903 newspapers tucked between ceiling beams, which confirmed the building's completion year. The process revealed the original bricks, beams, and wooden studs, which were then preserved and incorporated into the design. Aharoni's intention was to achieve a sense of Quaker-like simplicity in the aesthetic, emphasizing the raw, authentic materials of the building. The project involved the meticulous work of contractors, F&N Solutions, whose contribution Aharoni described as spectacular. A significant design challenge involved integrating the two original kitchens, which were separated by a common wall. Aharoni located the shared chimney that serviced both kitchens and subsequently created a unique connecting fireplace. This fireplace, an EcoSmart Fire model, is open on both sides and uses an alcohol-based flame, eliminating the need for a traditional flue and preventing the emission of fumes or smoke. The design of this central feature was crucial in linking the two previously distinct living spaces, transforming them into a cohesive home. Throughout the apartment, a black-and-white color scheme predominates. Aharoni noted that while this palette currently defines the space, it is not his ultimate vision. He expressed a desire to introduce color, specifically mentioning plans for two blue-and-red chairs, indicating that the current monochromatic design is a temporary stage in the apartment's evolution. Despite the minimalist color scheme, Aharoni emphasizes that the atmosphere is far from cold, attributing the warmth to the abundant natural light. One of the most cherished features of the renovated apartment for Aharoni is the presence of eight windows, which allow natural light to flood the living space, creating a luxurious and expansive feel. He describes the experience of waking up to beams of light across the floor as a significant luxury. The combined apartment now boasts a 50-foot living room, which, despite its origins in a tenement building, presents an unexpected sense of grandeur and luxury in disguise. The renovation also included specific design elements like a wooden statue of the goddess Parvati, placed under a supporting beam for protection, a wood-and-plaster ribbon sculpture by Aharoni himself, and a collaboration with artist Hisao Hanafusa on the dining table design, complemented by George Nakashima dining chairs. The bathroom was updated with a shower replacing a bathtub and a sleek Boffi sink. The kitchen features under-counter appliances and a clever storage solution behind a painting that doubles as a door, accommodating Aharoni's regular dinner parties despite having only two stovetop burners. Window coverings were designed to be graceful, covering two at a time rather than individual shades. #TenementRenovation #GhioraAharoniDesign #WestVillageApartment #ArchitecturalArchaeology #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriors #OpenConceptLiving #SustainableDesign

This article details the renovation and expansion of a dilapidated 16th-century townhouse on Lederergasse in Linz by Mia2 architects Sandra Gnigler and Gunar Wilhelm. Originally slated for demolition, the architects acquired the building to serve as a pilot project for a resource-saving renovation, largely carried out with their own labor, and to house their architectural studio. The project involved multiple building phases, adding two-and-a-half storeys using wood-building techniques, and ultimately creating 10 new apartments. The initial phase of the renovation focused on addressing the damp masonry in the foundation. Heat pipes were used to dehumidify the area, and the existing floor slab was dismantled. A key aspect of the resource-saving approach was the reuse of materials; the earth beneath the removed floor slab provided clay for prefabricated rammed earth wall elements. These elements required two years of storage before they could be installed as the load-bearing wall of the new rooftree. The new floor slab was insulated with cellular glass to protect against soil moisture. Throughout the renovation, the architects also replaced the existing windows with thermally insulated box windows, designed with muntins to maintain the building’s historical aesthetic. Renovation of the upper levels proceeded after the expiration of tenants' lease agreements. The undersides of the original wooden ceilings on these floors were preserved and upgraded through the incorporation of concrete-and-timber constructions, blending historical elements with modern structural integrity. A significant alteration to the building's exterior involved the removal of the existing saddle roof. It was replaced with a new two-and-a-half-storey addition, featuring a new saddle roof, large dormers, and a sheet metal covering. The old roof tiles were not discarded but found a new purpose as the roofing for a barn in the surrounding area, further exemplifying the project’s commitment to resource conservation. To optimize the limited internal space of the existing walls, the architects designed and installed a facade-side spiral stairway made of bespoke prefabricated concrete components, replacing the original steep interior staircase. The newly created apartments, while compact, were enhanced with communicative balconies. These balconies, supported by a delicate-looking steel construction, face a planted inner courtyard, providing residents with outdoor living space. A notable feature of this densification project is the creation of attic-level maisonette units, which offer panoramic views over the Old Town of Linz. The project by Mia2 stands as an example of sustainable urban renewal, combining historical preservation with modern living and resource-efficient construction practices. #TownhouseRenovation #Mia2Architektur #ResourceSaving #SustainableDesign #LinzArchitecture #HistoricPreservation #UrbanDensification #ClayConstruction #WoodBuilding

The Rittenhouse Hill apartment complex, located at 633 W. Rittenhouse St. in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, underwent a significant modernization led by Post Brothers. This transformation aimed to bring the 1950s-era building into the 21st century, serving as a precursor to their larger Presidential City project. The complex is strategically situated one block from Wissahickon Park, at the intersection of Germantown, East Falls, and Mt. Airy. The renovation introduced a new entrance building, a zinc-and-glass pavilion that connects the two towers. This pavilion houses a comfortable lounge and a professionally managed fitness center offering various classes and programs. Both the lounge and fitness center overlook a comprehensive recreational area dubbed the “Ultimate Backyard.” This outdoor amenity space features a large infinity-edge swimming pool with a tanning deck, a tot lot for children, a yoga garden, an outdoor kitchen, a multipurpose sports court, and a bocce court, all set within lush landscaping and topiary. Additionally, the backyard includes an off-leash dog park and a canine comfort station. A direct pathway connects the complex to Wissahickon Park for residents seeking unscripted nature experiences. Inside the apartments, Post Brothers implemented their signature Eurostyle design elements. Kitchens are equipped with quartz countertops and Italian-style glass-front cabinet doors, with larger units featuring movable islands. Bathrooms include floating vanities. The complex offers 624 units, comprising studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Studios range from 370 to 400 square feet, one-bedrooms from 550 to 775 square feet, and two-bedrooms are 950 square feet. Monthly rents vary from $1,015 to $1,295 for studios, $1,210 to $1,745 for one-bedrooms, and $1,565 to $1,845 for two-bedrooms. Sustainability and eco-consciousness were central to the renovation. The building received new windows filled with argon gas and heat-blocking coatings, alongside a high-efficiency building envelope featuring a thermally insulated green roof. Energy Star-rated appliances, energy-efficient lightbulbs, and water-saving toilets, washers, and dishwashers were installed throughout. The complex also incorporates a rainwater retention system and carbon-free heating and air-conditioning systems, with the building’s power sourced entirely from wind generation. The location provides good walkability, with a SEPTA Regional Rail station and two supermarkets within a short walking distance on West Chelten Avenue. Several restaurants, delis, and coffee shops are also nearby. For transportation, the complex offers 705 parking spaces, including electric-vehicle charging stations. Surface lot spaces rent for $45 per month, top deck garage spaces for $65 per month, and indoor garage spaces for $85 per month. Indoor bike storage is also available. The pet policy is inclusive, welcoming pets with no breed or weight restrictions, requiring a $250 deposit and $35 per pet per month rent. Yvette Stewart, Senior Vice President of Property Management for Post Brothers, highlights the complex's ideal location and the opportunity to create a high-caliber residential offering with modern designs and world-class amenities. #ApartmentLiving #ResidentialDevelopment #UrbanRenewal #EcoFriendlyDesign #LuxuryApartments #PhiladelphiaRealEstate #PostBrothers #ModernArchitecture #CommunityAmenities

Hyphen House, a historic Hudson Valley farmhouse dating back to the 1700s, has undergone a significant transformation from a flower farm into a live-work artist's retreat. Originally built for the Dutch Van Messler family, the property once functioned as three separate apartments, now reconfigured into a single, cohesive residence. The name "Hyphen House" signifies this reunification of fragmented spaces, emphasizing the delicate balance required to merge its historical integrity with modern functionality. The renovation was spearheaded by artist Michele Lobo, the owner of Hyphen House, who commissioned her daughter’s design practice, NoNo Studio, co-founded by Susannah Stopford and Alejandra Murillo. The core challenge for NoNo Studio was to modernize the centuries-old structure without sacrificing its inherent historical soul. The designers described the process as a "high-stakes game of chess," navigating thick stone walls and inherent structural quirks to create a flowing layout while preserving the imprint of its past. Upon Lobo's initial acquisition, the house was a 'time capsule' filled with floral motifs, from wallpaper to light switches and lampshades, a legacy of its flower farm origins. While some original elements, such as specific wallpaper in the southern living room and powder room, were retained, others were reimagined. Notably, a quirky wax melter for candle making, hidden behind a fireplace, was preserved, as was the original wood of a mantle stripped back after extensive paint removal. Other enduring features include silk-screen wallpaper, a stone wall in the kitchen, a powder room under the stairs, and a built-in bookcase filled with art books. The aesthetic choices, including color palettes and material selections, were heavily influenced by the home's history and Lobo's extensive collection of art and objects. The designers aimed to create a dialogue between heritage and contemporary freshness, integrating 18th-century antiques with Lobo's globally sourced pieces. The guiding principle was to identify and amplify the distinctive character of the house. A primary goal of the renovation was to establish a home that could support Lobo’s artistic endeavors. After decades abroad, she sought a space near family that could accommodate her work across various mediums and scales. The property now thrives as a creative compound, featuring a sculpture studio in the former flower shop and a barn converted into an art gallery and entertaining area. NoNo Studio embraced the building's peculiarities, such as parallel staircases and duplicate living areas, transforming them into unique design opportunities. The project stands as a testament to the idea that preserving the spirit of an old building is as valuable as constructing something new, resulting in a warm, 'unbuttoned,' and inspiring "incubator of creativity." #HistoricRenovation #ArtistRetreat #HudsonValleyHome #NoNoStudio #InteriorDesign #AdaptiveReuse #ArchitecturalPreservation #LiveWorkSpace #FarmhouseRenovation

A couple residing in lower Manhattan acquired a circa 1892 Renaissance Revival brownstone and sandstone row house in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, measuring three stories high and just under 17 feet wide. While the house retained significant original details such as stained glass, wainscoting, an intact staircase, and carved Queen Anne style wood mantels, the new owners sought a brighter and more contemporary living space. They enlisted Gowanus-based architect Jeff Etelamaki to undertake a comprehensive renovation of the two upper floors, with a 'clean-up' of the garden level for an au pair or visiting family. The architect identified the primary challenges as the house's overall darkness and awkward proportions. The parlor level, for instance, suffered from a narrow entry hall, staircase, and galley kitchen that consumed a third of the house's width, leaving an exceptionally long and narrow living area (9 feet, 8 inches wide by 42 feet long). Etelamaki addressed this by opening up the hallway wall and dividing the lengthy space widthwise. An expanded kitchen was relocated to the rear of the parlor floor, and a dining area, featuring a round table to counteract the angularity of the space, was placed in the middle. This strategic repositioning was deemed the most practical solution for the layout. A significant stylistic decision involved replacing the existing ornate mantels and a large pier mirror. The homeowners opted for simpler white marble mantels, sourced from earlier-era Boston houses via New Hampshire, after the original pieces were sent to an architectural salvage warehouse in Harlem. This choice was partly facilitated by the necessity to replace the uneven and worn parquet flooring with new white oak planks from Madera Surfaces. Other improvements included removing a wall to open the stair hall and whitewashing existing dark brown woodwork to enhance brightness and modernize the interior. While much of the original detail, such as the front door, trim, wainscoting, and stair balusters, was preserved, the latter were highlighted with Farrow & Ball’s Manor House Grey. Additional design elements included abstract art by Brooklyn-based painter Alex Soffer positioned over the mantels in the parlor and kitchen areas. Two barrel-shaped chairs in the front parlor were chosen to complement the mantel's opening and prevent the narrow space from feeling overcrowded, while original stained glass panels above the parlor windows were retained. Custom kitchen cabinetry, along with a wall of glass-doored cabinets, was crafted by Tamas Matyek of Brooklyn-based Prowood. Lighting fixtures, including hanging lights over the black granite island, contemporary glass fixtures in the dining area and entry hall, and sconces throughout the house, were supplied by Allied Maker. A new powder room was integrated to the right of the kitchen, necessitating a slight bump-out into the kitchen space. Built-in white oak and mixed hardwood cabinets with integrated pulls were installed to optimize space in the kitchen, given its limited width for a dining table or banquette. On the upper floor, two smaller rooms were combined to create a single, full-width primary bedroom, with salvaged wainscoting used for repairs. The primary bedroom features furniture from Chicago’s Blu Dot. The central section of the top floor was reconfigured to include a walk-in closet and an entirely new skylit bathroom, which is partly clad in large-format porcelain tile. The existing door to a deck remained, with a potential future addition to that floor considered. #ProspectHeights #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSalvage #ModernUpdate #MarbleMantels #BrooklynRenovation #EtelamakiArchitecture #HomeRedesign

Metrotown, a rapidly developing urban center in Burnaby, is projected to see an 82% population increase by 2031, driving demand for new residential developments. In response, a new development named O2 Metrotown by Keltic Development introduces 285 homes, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, explicitly designed with health and wellness in mind. This project is inspired by the WELL Building Standard, aiming to measurably enhance residents' overall well-being through integrated features. The interiors of O2 Metrotown homes, designed by Scott Trepp Design, incorporate numerous innovative wellness elements. A key feature is the luxurious ensuite bathrooms, which include heated porcelain tile floors and a premium, fully enclosed steam shower. These steam showers, standard in all two-bathroom homes and optional in one-bathroom homes, offer therapeutic benefits such as toxin flushing, improved circulation, cardiovascular health, stress reduction, and skin detoxification. An aromatherapy reservoir allows for the use of essential oils to further enhance the experience. Water quality is addressed through advanced filtration systems installed in every home. These systems remove harmful chemicals, metals, and contaminants, contributing to improved energy levels, digestion, joint health, skin health, and reduced oxidation levels for residents. Air quality is also a priority, with commercial-grade air purification systems in every home and amenity area. These systems are designed to remove up to 135% more particles than typical building systems, protecting against airborne viruses, molds, microbes, and other harmful contaminants, a feature that has gained increased importance post-COVID-19. The holistic design approach extends to practical and aesthetic details. Homes feature space-saving kitchen storage, display niches, and under-mount cabinetry lighting in both kitchens and bathroom vanities. Climate control is managed by a state-of-the-art variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heating and cooling system, controlled via smart, Wi-Fi-connected thermostats, allowing residents to manage their home's temperature remotely. Charcoal roller blinds, which block up to 97% of UV rays, further assist in temperature regulation, glare reduction, and protection of interior furnishings. The material palette includes polished porcelain tiles and engineered stone countertops in contemporary color schemes like Halo or Dusk, aiming to create a luxurious, penthouse-like ambiance. Recognizing that people spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, O2 Metrotown emphasizes the significant impact of built environments on health outcomes. Keltic Development positions this project as a challenge to the status quo of urban living, asserting that a healthy lifestyle represents the ultimate luxury. Beyond individual units, the development offers over 7,200 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenity space. This includes an expansive fitness studio with premium equipment and floor-to-ceiling windows, along with a 500-square-foot open-air patio for post-workout cool-downs. Wellness amenities also feature an infrared sauna, located near a yoga room, complete with a Himalayan salt wall, cedar-clad surfaces, and a glass door, providing a soothing spa-like environment. A multi-purpose room off the lobby offers a flexible space for hosting, dining, and gatherings, equipped with a chef-inspired kitchen, a media area with a large television, plush sectional seating, and direct access to an outdoor kitchen and BBQ area. The development's location further promotes well-being due to its proximity to Metrotown's 220-acre Central Park. Residents can utilize the park's Perimeter trail for walking or biking, which features a rubberized surface and night lighting. The park also provides access to tennis courts, an outdoor swimming pool, a pitch and putt golf course, playgrounds, and picnic areas. O2 Metrotown's location near the Metrotown SkyTrain Station allows for a 20-minute commute to downtown Vancouver, reducing reliance on personal vehicles. This proximity also offers convenient access to the Metropolis Mall and various local cafes and restaurants on foot, enhancing the urban living experience. #MetrotownDevelopment #WellnessHomes #O2Metrotown #KelticDevelopment #WELLBuildingStandard #LuxuryLiving #HealthConsciousDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #UrbanAmenities

The B.O.B. Sky Patio, located in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, serves as a prominent dining and entertainment venue, notable for its innovative double-sided green wall. This historical building, originally a 1903 grocery warehouse, was saved from demolition by The Gilmore Collection and transformed into a multi-venue establishment offering a brewery, various restaurants, comedy, and nightclubs, alongside its unique rooftop sky patio. The green wall project, installed in August 2015 using the LiveWall system, spans 608 square feet and was designed to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and sustainability efforts of the establishment. The green wall is strategically designed with both exterior and interior sections. The three exterior sections, measuring 48 inches in height, are affixed to the perimeter fencing of the patio, facing the street. These sections feature annuals and perennials, contributing to the beautification of downtown Grand Rapids and making the patio more inviting from below. The five interior sections, 45.5 inches in height, are situated on the inside of the perimeter fence and on the building's back wall. These interior sections cultivate a variety of herbs and vegetables, including parsley, basil, mint, lemongrass, chives, kale, Swiss chard, and rainbow carrots, alongside annuals and perennials such as coleus, SunPatiens impatiens, vinca vine, bigroot geranium, lemon grass, and New Zealand sedge. This setup facilitates a 'hyper-local' approach to sourcing ingredients, directly benefiting the restaurant's kitchen operations. The Gilmore Collection, a locally owned and operated entity, emphasizes sustainable practices across its establishments. The living wall at The B.O.B. Sky Patio is a tangible representation of this commitment, showcasing a blend of historic preservation and modern ecological design. Alice Jasper, director of sustainability for The Gilmore Collection, highlights that the green wall not only beautifies the space but also enhances the dining experience for guests. Chef Mick Rickerd of Bobarino’s values having fresh, organically grown herbs and produce readily available for daily dishes and special summer cocktails, underscoring the functional aspect of the living wall. Beyond its aesthetic and culinary benefits, the B.O.B. Sky Patio's green wall contributes to an improved ambiance by dampening traffic sounds and creating a more relaxing outdoor environment. The project is a long-term investment, with Gilmore Collection CEO Greg Gilmore noting that while immediate business results are not the primary goal, the enhanced ambiance has correlated with increased revenues. The B.O.B. actively promotes its living wall, mentioning its role in providing fresh produce from May through September since 2013, and its involvement in community outreach with local schools and food co-ops. The project exemplifies a successful integration of green infrastructure into a commercial setting, offering environmental, economic, and social advantages. #GreenRoof #LivingWall #SustainableArchitecture #UrbanGardening #RestaurantDesign #LocalSourcing #EnvironmentalDesign #CommercialProject #GrandRapids

A Georgian Revival-style residence, built in 1960 for one of James J. Hill's granddaughters on St. Paul's historic Summit Avenue, has undergone its fourth renovation, transforming key areas to suit a modern family's needs while preserving its original architecture. The homeowners, deeply appreciative of the home's Gilded Age heritage, approached the renovations with a desire to update for convenience without compromising historical integrity. This ongoing multi-phase project, spanning eight years, began with converting a three-season porch into a home office and included developing a two-level pool house and updating the main residence's facade, driveway, and entryway. The most recent phase focused on revamping the kitchen, butler’s pantry, and dining room. The design team, comprising Charlie & Co. Design for architectural input, Anderson Reda for custom building, and Twist Interior Design for interiors, tackled the challenge of redesigning a home originally structured to separate family and staff living spaces. Charlie Simmons, founding principal of Charlie & Co. Design, noted the presence of a large concrete bearing wall that effectively divided the house into two distinct zones: the front for staff with the kitchen and living quarters, and the back for the family's entertaining spaces with views of the Mississippi River valley. The primary task involved opening up the kitchen, which was previously isolated by numerous walls and doors. Leveraging original blueprints, the team realized significant structural modifications were possible within the confines of the main bearing wall. They adopted a traditional Georgian-style galley kitchen layout, featuring a large marble-topped island, a specific request from the homeowner for family gatherings and homework. The kitchen's design emphasizes formal symmetry, a hallmark of the Georgian style, achieved by centering a custom metal range hood between existing double-hung windows and reflecting this symmetry in the cabinetry, beam work, and lighting. Reclaimed oak flooring was installed to seamlessly match the home’s original wood floors. Two smaller closets were combined to create a pantry, designed to store small appliances and cater to specific family requests, such as cereal dispensers. An former walk-in cooler at one end of the kitchen was repurposed into a built-in booth for casual dining. Across from this, a hall closet was ingeniously transformed into a hidden office nook, featuring a custom workstation designed by Doug Tang from Charlie & Co. Design. This workstation, when closed, appears as a regal piece of Georgian furniture, but opens to reveal a secretary desk with a cane back chair, which the homeowner's wife particularly cherishes. Connecting the kitchen to the dining room is a butler’s pantry, envisioned as a decadent and darker transitional space. Stained walnut cabinetry contrasts with the kitchen’s bright white enamel, while shared stained-glass motifs ensure continuity. Features like a tray ceiling, a gold leaf light fixture, and deep blue wallpaper with gold flecks contribute to an Old World aesthetic, amplified by natural light from a window illuminating floating glass shelving. Sandy LaMendola, design principal at Twist Interior Design, described the intent to create a functional yet beautiful space, akin to a statement powder room. The dining room, which previously had a dark, suburban feel, was reimagined as a lavish space. LaMendola selected a luxurious fabric with a soft, deconstructed floral pattern for the walls and window treatments, creating a cohesive and elegant look. Subtle painted ceilings and Georgian motifs in the millwork, including crown molding, trim, paneling, and a dormer window casing, were meticulously replicated from existing elements throughout the home to ensure new additions harmonized with the historical character. The project team is now planning the next phases, including a trellis and bench area opposite the pool house, and potentially a renovation of the primary bedroom. #HistoricHomeRenovation #GeorgianRevival #SummitAvenue #KitchenDesign #ButlerPantry #DiningRoomRedesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #CustomWorkstation