Where Functional Meets Beautiful: 5 ways Renova Custom Woodworks can elevate every space

Summer presents an opportune time for home renovation projects, leveraging longer daylight hours and generally favorable weather conditions for both indoor and outdoor improvements. Whether the goal is to enhance a home's market value, boost its functionality, or simply refresh its aesthetic, a selection of five Amazon-available products can facilitate these transformations. Amazon Prime members can benefit from 24-hour delivery on these items, with a 30-day free trial option available for new members. One featured product is the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance A19 LED Smart Bulbs, priced at $49.97. These smart bulbs significantly impact a home's ambiance by allowing users to customize lighting with a palette of 16 million colors and various shades of white. They also support voice control through platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant, offering both convenience and modern aesthetic appeal. Another innovative suggestion is the Moen Arbor Motionsense Two-Sensor Touchless One-Handle High Arc Pulldown Kitchen Faucet, available for $249.99. This kitchen faucet addresses practical challenges, such as operating a faucet with messy hands, by incorporating MotionSense technology for touchless activation. Its design also includes a reflex system for smooth operation and secure docking, combining style with enhanced functionality in the kitchen. For flooring upgrades, Achim Home Furnishings Nexus Vinyl Tile is presented as a cost-effective and user-friendly solution, priced at $13.41 for a pack of 20 tiles. These stick-and-peel tiles are designed for easy installation in any room, providing a stylish update without a high cost or requiring extensive home renovation experience. They are available in a variety of colors and styles to suit different preferences. Painting is highlighted as a direct way to refresh a living space. Prestige Paint, available on Amazon, offers a range of colors to brighten any room. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically alter a room's appearance, making it feel revitalized within a short period, potentially within a few days. Finally, Remote Control Curtain Lights, priced at $16.79 on Amazon, offer a simple yet effective way to add ambiance to a home. These lights, consisting of 10 strands with 30 LED lights each, are ideal for creating a pleasant backdrop for outdoor evening entertainment or family gatherings. They provide a cost-friendly method to instantly enhance the atmosphere of any setting. #HomeRenovation #HomeImprovement #SmartHome #AmazonDeals #DIYHome #InteriorDesign #LifestyleProducts

Erik Wyckoff, a professional woodcarver operating out of Minneapolis for 28 years, specializes in creating bespoke wooden elements that add unique character and timelessness to homes. His interest in wood carving began in childhood, inspired by the intricate details of historic homes like the James J. Hill House. Wyckoff's parents encouraged his passion for traditional craftsmanship, leading him to pursue formal training. He honed his skills under the tutelage of master carver Konstantinos Papadakis, who passed down artistic, historical, and practical knowledge, including tool handling, carving efficiency, and the fundamental decorative styles. Papadakis's instruction covered various motifs such as birds, flowers, grapes, and the scrolling acanthus leaf, which forms the basis for numerous historical carving styles. This comprehensive training has enabled Wyckoff to undertake a diverse range of projects, from Italian-style wine cellar doors and French mantels to Black Forest-style mantels for rustic cabins. Wyckoff's portfolio includes notable projects such as a Renaissance-Revival-style carved paneled study featuring hidden loons, deer, and beavers, inspired by the Minnesota State Capitol. He also replicated missing wood carvings for the restoration of the Donaldson Mansion in Minneapolis and created a French-style relief carving over a door in Medina, incorporating the owner’s industrial symbols. Wyckoff places significant emphasis on research, drawing inspiration from historic decorative arts ranging from medieval churches to French tapestries, ensuring historical accuracy and a sense of permanence in his creations. Among his favorite projects are the doors and panels for a Maplewood home's wine cellar, which were inspired by France's Château de Chambord, designed to immerse the owner in a French aesthetic. This project also included a unique bar top under glass, carved with mythical beasts and foliage, conceived as a conversation-starting "cabinet of curiosities." Another deeply sentimental piece involved a carved panel with vines and a pair of cardinals for an older couple, symbolizing their lifelong partnership. Wyckoff collaborates frequently with design professionals, integrating his custom carvings, which often feature Old World decorative art motifs like animals, flowers, and scrollwork, seamlessly into the overall architecture and interior design. He ensures historical accuracy and tasteful integration, often being part of a larger design team to achieve the client's vision. Clients like Steve and Susan Rudolph of Orono attest to Wyckoff's ability to create custom pieces that perfectly match existing architectural details, as demonstrated by the eight unique willow corbels he carved for their Spanish Revival home's entry gallery. These corbels not only highlighted the groin vault ceiling but also subtly incorporated the initials of each family member, adding a personal touch while maintaining historical consistency. Wyckoff expresses profound satisfaction in knowing his work brings joy and lasting beauty to clients' homes. #Woodcarving #BespokeDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomCraftsmanship #HomeDecor #ArtisticWoodwork #HistoricalAccuracy #Renovation #ArchitecturalDetails

This article details the transformation of an 185-square-metre industrial loft on Geary Avenue into a comfortable, plant-filled home for furniture designer Shaun Moore and florist Todd Caldwell. The project was led by architect Tamira Sawatzky, with whom the couple maintains a close relationship, a testament to the successful collaboration. Moore and Caldwell, along with Sawatzky and her wife Elle Flanders, co-own the building, a former bomboniere importer warehouse, where they not only live but also operate their respective businesses. Moore runs Made Design, specializing in custom furniture, and Caldwell operates Emblem, a floral design studio, on the ground floor. Sawatzky and Flanders' Public Studio, an art and architecture practice, has an office next door, fostering a unique co-living and co-working environment. The initial encounter between Moore, Caldwell, and Sawatzky dates back to 1998 in Toronto, following their relocation from Winnipeg. Sawatzky had previously renovated the couple's Cabbagetown Victorian, skillfully blending its historic charm with modern conveniences. The opportunity to acquire the Geary Avenue building in 2016 presented itself, allowing Moore and Caldwell to integrate their living and working spaces, eliminating the need for expensive retail rents. Sawatzky's design philosophy for the loft involved respecting and enhancing the existing industrial character of the space while introducing elements that promoted livability and warmth. The loft's inherent industrial aesthetics, such as open-web steel joists, a corrugated-steel ceiling, polished concrete floors, and cinder-block walls, were preserved and form the core of its design. These structural elements define the expansive living areas, which are generously illuminated by skylights that draw natural light deep into the floor plate. To counteract the inherent coolness of industrial materials, Moore carefully selected wood furniture and finishes. His custom-designed dining table features a dark, richly veined walnut top, and the bathroom cabinetry combines white oak with shimmering brass accents. The two bedroom suites, located at the rear of the loft, are furnished with mid-century teak pieces, further contributing to the warmth and character of the space. An element of playful surprise is introduced through a vintage rolling library ladder, which provides access to a mezzanine sitting area overlooking the main loft space. This ladder, discovered within the building, was repurposed by Moore and Caldwell, symbolizing their approach to giving new life to old elements, much like the warehouse itself. The article highlights the successful integration of industrial aesthetics with personal touches and functional design, creating a unique and inviting home that also serves as a thriving workspace for its occupants. #InteriorDesign #CondosLofts #Renovations #IndustrialLoft #ArchitecturalRenovation #CustomFurniture #FloralDesign #LiveWorkSpace #ModernDesign

This article highlights the versatile and appealing nature of wood as a design element in modern interiors, moving beyond traditional wood paneling to showcase its diverse applications. Wood's inherent qualities, such as its natural grain, texture, and warmth, make it a valuable material in contemporary home design. The material's adaptability allows for its use in various forms, from elegant floor and wall patterns to custom built-ins, and it integrates well with other mediums. Furthermore, wood is presented as a sustainable building material due to its renewable nature and relatively low carbon emissions. The article features several examples from the print archive that demonstrate innovative uses of wood. One such example is an architect's Chilean island hideaway, a multi-stage development by Guillermo Acuña that includes a boathouse and cabins. Here, wood contributes to a modest living space and an upper-floor cabin with a wood-burning stove and beanbag chairs, reflecting a rustic yet refined aesthetic ideal for a coastal retreat. Another case is a restored British modern masterpiece, a two-story, flat-roofed residence designed by Peter Womersley in 1954. This home, clad in glass and wood, stands out among traditional stone cottages, exemplifying how wood can be used to create a distinctive architectural statement while blending with the natural landscape of the Pennine Hills. A cabin inspired by Japanese bungalows and Shou Sugi Ban techniques in the mountains of North Carolina showcases the material's ability to evoke tranquility. The use of reclaimed poplar for single walls in each room creates a Zen-like simplicity, emphasizing sustainability and cultural inspiration in design. An expansive Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired modern home in Bar Harbor, Maine, combines wood and stone across 2,500 square feet. Designed by SPAN Architecture, this waterfront cabin features custom wood built-ins that maximize utility and streamline the interior, illustrating wood's functional and aesthetic benefits in a cohesive design. A charred-cedar clad home on Lake Michigan demonstrates an innovative approach to wood treatment. Desai Chia Architecture repurposed ash trees from the client's property for interior elements and utilized shou sugi ban for the exterior cedar cladding, highlighting wood's protective qualities against fire, insects, and aging, while also providing a unique visual texture. Moving to a renovated Portland gem, a 1959 house by Aaron and Yuka Ruell exemplifies how original wood paneling can be refreshed. The home, nestled among fir and cedar trees, maintains its vintage charm with large glass expanses and generous overhangs, showcasing a blend of 20th-century Pacific Northwest design with contemporary updates. In San Francisco, a striking slatted wood and glass home by architect Craig Steely, designed for an industrial designer and mechanical engineer, illustrates wood's role in creating dynamic facades and controlling views with indoor louvers. This project underscores the material's capacity for both privacy and openness. A compact wooden home in Tokyo, designed by Masahiro and Mao Harada of Mount Fuji Architects Studio, challenges traditional housing definitions by consistently applying wood to the ceiling, walls, and floor. This creates a beautifully flowing, unified space that maximizes the small footprint. An expanded cabin in Virginia by Lauren and Josh Stegall adds an 800-square-foot extension with a large window overlooking the Blue Ridge Parkway. This project emphasizes wood's suitability for additions that blend seamlessly with existing structures and natural surroundings. Finally, an eco-friendly A-frame in the French countryside, designed by Arba, incorporates four varieties of wood, demonstrating how different types can be assembled to create a cohesive material vocabulary. This residence, a sanctuary from city life, highlights wood's natural aesthetic and its contribution to a harmonious living environment. These examples collectively illustrate wood's enduring appeal and versatility in modern architecture and interior design, offering warmth, texture, sustainability, and aesthetic flexibility. #WoodInteriors #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalWoodwork #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #ShouSugiBan #CustomBuiltIns

Refinishing wood furniture offers a sustainable approach to updating home decor by transforming old, tired timber pieces into fresh, functional items. This practice supports the reduce, reuse, and recycle mantra by giving new life to items sourced from salvage yards, charity shops, or online marketplaces. Refinishing can significantly enhance the character of a space, especially when integrating vintage pieces into modern settings, such as using an antique timber piece as a washstand in a contemporary bathroom. Tropical hardwoods from the mid-20th century, for example, are valuable resources that can be preserved and revitalized with treatments like hardwax oil, which enhances their natural qualities. The appeal of refinished pieces often lies in their existing 'bruises' and imperfections, which can make a space feel more relaxed and less focused on pristine perfection. Various finishing options exist, including waxes, oils, hard wax oils, stains, dyes, varnish, and limewash. The choice of finish depends on the desired aesthetic and the type of timber being treated. Waxes, oils, and hard wax oils provide the most natural look. Hard wax oils are particularly durable, making them suitable for high-wear surfaces like dining tables and doors. Oils are easy to repair, which is beneficial for households with children, and they penetrate softwoods more effectively. For hardwoods with tighter grains, thinner oils are recommended. Wax helps to retain the timber's character while restoring dry, worn, or scratched areas, and it can be buffed to a sheen or left natural. For those aiming to maintain the raw appearance of pale timber, products with a hint of white pigment, such as Osmo Raw or Fiddes Hard Wax Oil Natural, are ideal. Dyes and stains alter the wood's color, while varnish offers superior protection. Limewash creates a white effect on the grain, best suited for darker timbers. Before committing to a finish, it is crucial to perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area to ensure the desired outcome, including top coats. The refinishing process begins with thorough preparation, primarily sanding to remove any existing coatings, whether paint or unknown finishes. This step is messy and requires protective gear like masks and goggles. For painted surfaces, a paint stripper should be used first. Sanding should start with an 80-grit sandpaper and progress to finer grits to achieve an even surface. Proper preparation is essential to prevent a patchy finish. After sanding, the furniture must be degreased and cleaned. Wiping the surface with methylated spirit on a cloth effectively removes dirt, grease, and sawdust, and the piece should be allowed to dry completely, ideally overnight. The first coat of the chosen finish is then applied. Drying times vary significantly; stains, dyes, and waxes dry quickly, while oils can take 4-12 hours. Manufacturers' instructions should be followed carefully. Most finishes are applied sparingly with a brush, working with the wood grain, while wax can be applied with a cloth, sponge, or brush. After the first coat dries, a 'denibbing' step is recommended for oil, hard wax oil, or varnish finishes. This involves lightly sanding with fine sandpaper or a denibbing pad to remove imperfections and create a better surface for the second coat. This step is not necessary for wax. Finally, a second coat is applied in the same manner as the first. Typically, two coats are sufficient for oil, wax, or hard wax oil, and two to three coats for varnish. It is not advisable to stain over varnished wood without first removing the varnish, as the new product will not properly penetrate or adhere to the surface, potentially leading to an undesirable finish. Refinishing furniture is generally manageable for a weekend project, provided the right tools and products are used, although extended drying times for some oils may require an extra day. #woodFurniture #furnitureRefinishing #DIYProjects #homeImprovement #sustainableLiving #upcycling #interiorDesign #decorTransformation #woodCare

The decision of whether to paint original woodwork in old homes, particularly brownstones and row houses, is a common dilemma for homeowners, architects, and designers. This choice is influenced by factors such as the owner's personal preference, the architectural style and era of the house, and the inherent quality and condition of the wood itself. While design trends fluctuate, with fads like all-white interiors giving way to bold colors such as navy blue or hot pink, natural wood finishes and neutral painted options like cream or gray remain popular in Brooklyn. Interior designer Louisa Roeder, for instance, opted to paint the well-preserved mahogany woodwork in her 1870s Prospect Heights brownstone white during a 2014 renovation. Her goal was to achieve a modern kitchen aesthetic, and she found that extending the white paint to the parlor floor and hallway woodwork significantly modernized the space, moving away from a Victorian feel. She acknowledged the decision as a "big gamble" due to its permanence. Fellow interior designer Tamara Eaton bases her decisions on the quality of the craftsmanship. She meticulously preserves elaborate, high-quality woodwork, such as mahogany with mother-of-pearl inlays, but is more liberal with painting lower-grade wood, as demonstrated by her choice to paint an entire parlor level with less distinguished woodwork a dark gray. Eaton emphasizes that owning a townhouse means embracing its history while adapting it for modern living, highlighting the constant negotiation between preservation and modernization. Preservationists, including Andrew Dolkart, a notable author and former director of Columbia University's Historic Preservation program, often consider painting original, unpainted woodwork as sacrilegious. Dolkart argues that if the intention was for the wood to be painted, less expensive materials like plaster would have been used. He points out that before the 1870s, woodwork was commonly painted, often with faux graining. In the late Victorian era, elaborate, natural woodwork on main levels was a status symbol. Pine and poplar in secondary spaces were typically meant for painting. The early 20th century saw a rise in white-painted woodwork with the Colonial Revival and natural oak in Arts & Crafts interiors. The mid-to-late 20th century 'brownstoning movement' led to stripping paint to reveal original wood beauty. Dolkart asserts that painting over beautiful original wood destroys the character of an old house, questioning the purpose of buying such a home if its historical artistry is not appreciated. Conversely, architect Jeff Sherman of Delson or Sherman often recommends painting woodwork, even if his clients frequently prefer restoration. He suggests that old moldings often require patching and replication, and sometimes stripping reveals inferior wood species like poplar. Sherman believes that painted molding can unify a home's aesthetic, especially in shades of white or pale gray, which can lighten and authenticate dark, wood-heavy rooms. Interior designer Fawn Galli embraces color, sometimes painting both woodwork and walls the same hue for a modern look or using contrasting colors. She famously painted a newel post in her Carroll Gardens brownstone hot pink, viewing it as an opportunity to inject fun and even shock into a space. Galli acknowledges that while townhouses tend to be dark, beautiful wood should be left natural, with an icy gray paint on the walls to brighten the space. #InteriorDesign #Woodwork #HomeRenovation #Brownstones #ArchitecturalPreservation #BrooklynHomes #DesignTrends #HistoricHomes

The article introduces the 2024 'Extraordinary Faces of Home,' a compilation of talented and experienced professionals in the home design and renovation industry in Westchester. These individuals and businesses are recognized for their passion and expertise in creating beautiful and comfortable living spaces. The featured companies span various aspects of home improvement, from interior design to exterior landscaping. Blinds To Go, for instance, specializes in custom window treatments, offering a wide array of blinds, shades, shutters, and drapery. Their design consultants assist clients in selecting materials and colors that align with personal style and budget, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functionality. All products and services come with a lifetime warranty, highlighting their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. California Closets focuses on custom storage solutions for various areas of the home, including closets, entertainment centers, mudrooms, and home offices. They emphasize superior craftsmanship and innovative designs that optimize organization and space, allowing clients more time for personal pursuits. Their process involves expert design consultation and custom manufacturing in their Westchester plant, followed by timely installation. Ai Bo Gallery presents a curated collection of contemporary fine art, featuring sculptures, photography, glass, mixed media, and paintings from emerging and established artists worldwide. Owner Glenn Aber’s passion for art, particularly from Vietnam, China, and Southeast Asia, is evident in the gallery's diverse offerings, which cater to both homeowners and interior designers seeking unique pieces. Cara Saven Wall Design, led by Caronine Garbutt, offers bespoke wallcoverings. Their team customizes designs to fit unique wall shapes, adjust colors and scales, or create entirely new patterns. Their extensive e-catalogue features over 2,000 designs, available on various substrates, including wallpaper, fabrics, and roller shades, serving interior designers, corporate clients, and residential projects. TT Interiors, founded by Tanya Tochner, provides personalized luxury interior design services. Tanya's approach is centered on listening to clients to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional, reflecting their unique personalities and styles. The services range from complete renovations to full interior design, operating as a division of ROCKS Jewelry Gifts Home. Kanter’s Carpet & Home is known for its luxurious flooring solutions. Under the leadership of Brian Kanter and his team, this 75-year-old family business offers an extensive selection of carpeting, custom area rugs, hardwood, LVP, and window treatments. They are trusted by interior designers and discerning homeowners for their impeccable design and quality. Nationwide Maintenance & General Contracting Inc., spearheaded by Marcie Manfredonia, specializes in exceptional home renovations. Marcie's transition from commercial to residential projects was driven by a desire to create meaningful and personalized spaces that evoke joy, peace, and love for individual homeowners, fostering long-lasting client relationships. Henry B. Whitaker Garage Doors, now run by third-generation owners Casarra and Jonathan Cover, continues a legacy of custom-built garage doors. What began with limited options in 1949 has evolved to offer state-of-the-art, handmade custom wood garage doors that enhance home aesthetics. They emphasize that a garage door is a crucial first impression of a home. Morano Group Landscapes + Hardscapes is a family-owned, full-service exterior company providing design, development, maintenance, masonry, interior plantscapes, organic tree care, mature tree installation, holiday décor, and poolside landscapes for commercial and residential properties in New York and Florida. Finally, Jilco Window Corporation’s Design Team, with over 70 years of combined experience, crafts “Irresistible Kitchens.” Lou Righetti, Darrin Monaco, and Sarah Zobel work with clients to weave together personality and vision with design expertise, focusing on colors, textures, and functionality to create thoughtful and thorough kitchen designs. Overall, the article highlights these businesses as key players in transforming and enhancing homes in Westchester, each bringing unique skills and dedicated service to their respective fields. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #WindowTreatments #CustomStorage #FineArt #Wallcoverings #LuxuryFlooring #LandscapeDesign #GarageDoors #KitchenDesign #WestchesterHomes

The article explores the interior design trend of layering different tones of wood to create rich, warm, and sophisticated spaces. This approach moves away from monochromatic wooden furniture and single-tone finishes, advocating for a varied wood palette in surfaces, furniture, and accessories. Key advice from designers Alexy Kos and Che Huang of Child Studio emphasizes using sustainable, indigenous wood species like pine, oak, cherry, and maple, while strictly avoiding exotic and endangered woods. The article presents five examples that showcase the effective application of this trend. The first example features a dining room designed by Child Studio, incorporating mahogany library walls paired with Rosso Levanto marble and a round maple table. The choice of woods with slightly reddish tones contributes to a deep, opulent feel. The designers highlight that layering various wood tones and textures creates a timeless atmosphere, making a home feel warm and lived-in. They suggest that understated designs, where timber serves as a background element, age more gracefully, allowing accessories or art to update the space. The second illustration focuses on a lighter, brighter application of layered woods within another Child Studio project. Curved walls, furniture, and screens, all made from different wood tones, demonstrate how careful selection of wood grain can unify a space dominated by timber. The designers stress the importance of choosing specific pieces of timber with attractive natural patterns and soft, natural grain patterns. They also advise against high gloss levels, recommending oils and varnishes to preserve an organic appearance, avoiding an artificial or plastic look. A kitchen-diner designed by Melbourne architects Kennedy Nolan serves as the third example, featuring wraparound tonal wood paneling on walls and ceilings. This design prioritizes warmth, texture, and durability. Founding partner Patrick Kennedy explains that eliminating white and lining all surfaces in timber amplifies the material's warmth and softness, enhancing views. While initially hesitant to mix timber species, the studio carefully balanced tones, avoiding high contrast and selecting timbers for their inherent qualities, following a tradition seen in vernacular architecture. The fourth example showcases a vignette at Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, designed by NICOLEHOLLIS. Here, Douglas Fir-clad walls and ceilings are combined with a mix of wood furniture, including a deep red-brown sideboard and a pale-framed armchair, with cane elements drawing the natural materials together. Alexy Kos and Che Huang suggest pairing light and dark timbers to create contrast and interest. They recommend using different shades of oak for lighter tones and cherry and walnut for darker ones, using one as a backdrop and highlighting with the opposing shade. This contrast can yield a smart, sharp look, while softer, subtle tones create a more casual feel. The final example is an architectural hallway by Jake Arnold Design, where a subtle difference in wood tone between the staircase and columns highlights the architectural beauty of these elements. A stone table provides a contrasting focal point against the deep woods. The designers suggest that natural elements like marble, limestone, brass, and wool textiles complement mixed woods beautifully. This overall approach of layering wood tones and textures is presented as a sophisticated and welcoming interior design trend. #InteriorDesign #WoodLayering #DesignTrends #HomeDecor #MaterialMixing #ChildStudio #KennedyNolan #NicoleHollis #JakeArnoldDesign

This article, part of the 'Renovator's Notebook' series, details chef Flynn McGarry's experience renovating a 380-square-foot former vegetable storage unit into Gem Wine, a relaxed sister wine bar to his restaurant Gem, located in Manhattan's Lower East Side. McGarry aimed to create an intimate atmosphere resembling a friend's apartment rather than a traditional restaurant. He undertook much of the interior work himself, leveraging his woodworking hobby to save money and personalize the space, despite admitting to making numerous mistakes along the way. His approach to the renovation combined strategic splurges with cost-saving DIY efforts. The renovation began in March 2021, with McGarry hiring Essential Contracting for major tasks like gutting the space and installing HVAC. However, he and his friends handled significant portions of the interior design and construction. McGarry found woodworking to be therapeutic, comparing it to an intense version of cooking, meticulously perfecting cuts over hours. This hands-on approach allowed him to avoid expensive custom-designed elements, saving approximately $8,000 on labor for various installations. He learned the importance of understanding all aspects of a space from his four years of running a restaurant. To achieve the desired 'apartment-like' ambiance, McGarry incorporated personal touches, including figurines, paintings, books, and vases from his own home, purchased during an antiquing spree. He discusses several key design decisions, categorizing them as either splurges or saves. A major splurge was the kitchen's solid cherry wood countertops, which cost $5,000 for the wood alone, not including tables from Grain Wood Studio. Despite the cost, he considered it essential for the aesthetic and ensured precision installation by a woodworker. For flooring, McGarry opted for terracotta tiles, a save that also provided a unique touch, evoking the South of France in Chinatown. He faced a challenge when half of his initial tile order arrived broken and replacements were unavailable. He creatively solved this by gluing broken pieces and mixing hexagon and square tiles, resulting in a natural-looking transition between the kitchen and bathroom. Another splurge was the selection of Farrow & Ball paints for the walls (Middleton Pink) and ceiling (India Yellow), chosen to create warmth. To provide contrast, the kitchen's back wall was lined with aluminum sheets by Cadco, complemented by antique cobalt blue lights. McGarry invested in replacing the storefront windows for $3,000, allowing them to open and connect the interior with the street, enhancing the welcoming feel. A clever save involved painting the ceiling color down a “divider” wall to conceal a soffit and drilling holes into a piece of wood to hide a vent. He emphasizes the importance of quality tools in woodworking, noting that investing in a good saw significantly improved the accuracy of his cuts. Finally, lighting was a significant splurge, with two vintage canvas pendant lamps by Jan Wickelgren costing $600 each. These unique finds, along with custom lamps by ceramist Ana Corrigan, contributed to the cozy, library-like atmosphere McGarry envisioned for Gem Wine. #WoodworkingHobby #LowerEastSideRenovation #WineBarDesign #DIYRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #RestaurantInterior #BudgetRenovation #TerracottaFlooring #CustomWoodwork

This article details the transformation of a 1915 San Francisco home by designer Kevin Sawyers, who aimed to imbue it with the vibrant personal style of its owner. Although the house was in good structural condition, it lacked personality and cohesive color. Sawyers addressed this by developing a “lip-smacking and playful, but certainly sophisticated” color palette that directly reflects the homeowner's wardrobe choices. The design strategy involved a tight edit of recurring colors to create cohesion and whimsy. For instance, the deep red from the dining room wallpaper reappears on the kitchen backsplash, family room rug, and as the guest bathroom’s wall paint. Similarly, a peachy orange from the kitchen island is echoed in the primary suite. This intentional repetition of strong colors ensures a unified yet dynamic aesthetic throughout the home. Beyond color, the project emphasized custom woodworking, which serves as a grounding element for the bold palette. Built-in case goods and white oak murals cover many walls, providing functional storage and integrated furniture. These custom pieces also feature unique decorative elements, such as mountain range murals inspired by the family’s vacation to Switzerland, adding a personalized touch. Despite minimal structural changes, primarily limited to the children’s bathroom, the three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home underwent a complete aesthetic overhaul. Virtually every surface was altered, updated, or replaced, making it unrecognizable from its initial state. The extensive design efforts ensured that the house not only became a reflection of its owner but also achieved a joyful, stylish, and clean atmosphere. Key areas of the home showcase this design philosophy. The entryway features a graphic 3D wall mural depicting Swiss mountains and practical storage solutions with circular wall knobs. The living room introduces the home’s ethos with a fireplace framed in Heath Ceramics tile, a nod to the client’s collection, and playful elements like an arch painted on the wall. The family room and playroom embody a flexible, family-friendly style, with wood slats providing subtle separation and a nocturnal Swiss mountain mural in the stairwell. The kitchen features updated cabinetry painted in bold colors like Snowy Shadow and Mysterious Blue, complemented by light fixtures and tiles that match the vibrant hues. A tucked-away pantry adds a playful touch with neon green floating shelves. The breakfast nook, designed for versatility, includes a custom banquette and fluted details that echo design elements found elsewhere in the house. The dining room offers a sleek space for entertaining, with Lee Jofa wallpaper over wainscoting and Benjamin Moore Magenta paint. The primary bedroom provides a tranquil retreat with softer tones like Daytona Peach, while the primary and guest bathrooms incorporate punchy hues, durable materials, and retro-inspired elements like terrazzo-style concrete countertops, maintaining the home's overall vibrant theme. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #CustomWoodwork #SanFranciscoHome #PersonalStyle #ResidentialDesign #VibrantInteriors #HomeRenovation

The article explores the enduring and evolving trend of using natural wood in home design, highlighting its resurgence in contemporary interiors. It posits that while wood has always been a staple, modern applications are elevating it beyond traditional forms like paneling or shiplap, focusing on fresh applications, diverse tones, and modern twists. Several Dallas-based designers showcase their approaches to integrating wood into various home settings. Chris Angelle, facing space constraints in a high-rise condo, utilized custom wood built-ins and cabinetry to connect the dining area with the kitchen, providing storage and visual coherence while maintaining warmth in a compact space. He emphasized the use of a transparent table to open up the area, balancing the warmth of the wood with functionality. Allison Seidler, another featured designer, created an attention-grabbing focal wall with custom gridded white oak paneling, visible from the home's entrance. She cautioned homeowners about the higher cost of stain-grade wood compared to paint-grade options and the inherent variances in natural materials, which she considers part of their charm. Seidler believes natural wood walls are a lasting design element that adds warmth and character. Joshua Rice, in collaboration with Smitharc Architecture + Interiors, designed a continuous wood-wrapped entry for a home. This project featured different woods for the exterior and interior: thermally treated ash with a vertical grooved pattern for the outside and fumed white oak veneer for the inside. Rice emphasized a commitment to natural materials, explaining that fuming is a natural chemical process that aligns with their design philosophy, contrasting it with staining. Cynthia Collins designed an intimate inglenook, cladding every surface of the conversation space in white oak to create a cocoon-like, inviting effect. She highlighted wood's versatility and its ability to ground a space with its earthy, timeless quality. Collins asserts that wood tones will always be a lasting feature in design. Morgan Farrow tackled the challenge of creating an elegant yet approachable formal sitting room by incorporating an intricately patterned natural wood ceiling treatment. This design choice aimed to draw the eye upward and prevent the space from feeling overly feminine. Farrow considers ceilings her favorite place to use wood, describing its effect as a "warm hug" that draws individuals into a room. Mary Beth Wagner chose to embrace existing wood paneling in a home office rather than painting over it. To refresh the space, she added wallpaper to the coffered ceiling squares and complemented the cherry stain with soft blue and taupe furnishings. Wagner noted that the once-popular painted navy study is no longer as exciting, and re-embracing wood allows for greater creativity with color palettes and textures in design. The article underscores that current wood trends are about celebrating the natural material's inherent beauty, texture, and warmth through thoughtful, modern applications. Designers are moving away from covering up wood with paint or overly rustic styles, instead opting for techniques that highlight its grain and character, making it a sophisticated and enduring element in contemporary home design.

Wood surfaces add warmth and a welcoming feel to spaces without overwhelming other materials, making them a timeless and neutral choice in design. Madera, a US-based wood design studio founded in 2012, specializes in creating wood flooring, millwork, and furniture. Their products range from white oak stairs to sustainable exterior decking and facades. Madera offers a "Seamless Wood Design" system, ensuring that various wooden elements like stairs, architectural panels, grilles, vents, interior doors, cabinet fronts, and millwork complement each other and the flooring according to client preferences. The Peconic House in New York, designed by Mapos, integrates natural materials to blend with its Long Island bay setting. Inside, Madera's Northern White Oak Flooring and white walls create bright, airy spaces, while the brand's grey-toned Hurricane recovered Ipe Decking enhances the exterior's weathered look. Desai Chia Architecture's Ledge House in Connecticut features a charred cedar exterior, reflecting the rocky landscape. Inside, Wide Plank European Oak Flooring by Madera contrasts with the dark facade, providing a light interior. Recesses lined with panelling from Madera's Stockholm Collection match the flooring, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Twentieth in California, by Woods + Dangaran, centers around an old olive tree. The white brick, three-story home offers both indoor and outdoor living. Madera's Wide Plank European Oak Flooring from the Stockholm Collection creates a warm backdrop, allowing natural light to form patterns across its surface. For the Moore House in California, a 1965 Craig Ellwood design, Woods + Dangaran undertook a sensitive restoration. The interior features Madera's wooden teak flooring and panelling, with custom Reclaimed Teak Flooring created to match existing teak elements, bringing warmth to the space. NoMad Loft in New York, renovated by Worrell Yeung, highlights classical materials in a contemporary setting. Drawing from the building's 1871 history, the design emphasizes materiality with a simple color palette. Madera's European Oak Flooring from its TRA collection is used alongside curved, grey-plastered walls and black and white furnishings. Arnold Studio's Clinton Residence in New York combines old and new by adding a two-story apartment to a historic brick house. Pale European Oak Flooring by Madera lightens the space, contrasting with dark wood ceiling beams. White oak stairs, made from the same Madera product, brighten the stairwell. The Cedars in New York, restored by Office of Tangible Space, features crisp white interiors and cedar cladding. Madera's whitewashed European Oak Flooring and white walls create bright, light-filled spaces, with black furnishings and frames providing a contemporary contrast. Di An Di, a Brooklyn restaurant designed by Office of Tangible Space and Huy Bui, aims for a bright, community-focused environment. Madera's American Ash furniture and millwork, paired with distressed timber flooring and deep green walls, create a simple, timeless interior. The David Rubenstein Forum in Chicago, a university building by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is recognized for its six cantilevering blocks and glazed facades. Wide Plank Northern White Oak Flooring by Madera reflects light from the windows, and wood-paneled walls and ceilings add warmth to the lecture hall. Industrious at Equinox in New York, a co-working space, features Madera's Wide Plank European Oak Flooring in private offices and social areas. Klippa and Yarrow stairs from Madera's Stockholm and Terra Collections, combined with black balustrades, create a dramatic material palette, aligning with Equinox's luxurious aesthetic. #WoodDesign #InteriorDesign #MaderaSurfaces #ArchitecturalWoodwork #LuxuryInteriors #SustainableMaterials #FlooringDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialDesign

The end of each year provides an opportunity to reflect on the diverse projects and creative endeavors shared within the design community. The year 2023 showcased remarkable talent within Toronto's design landscape, highlighting extraordinary interior designs that pushed creative boundaries. Among the standout projects, Canalside Studio demonstrated a playful approach to design by reimagining a builder-finished family home in Richmond Hill. The studio incorporated plywood as a primary material, imbuing the space with an animated and whimsical character. ACDO, a Toronto-based design studio, drew inspiration from the scenic shoreline of Niagara-on-the-Lake to create a resort-style interior palette, enhancing the home's connection to its natural surroundings. Conik Studios undertook a significant renovation of a 1976 two-storey Mississauga home, transforming it into a California-cool residence. The redesign capitalized on the home's prestigious location, elevating its aesthetic to a year-round summer feel. Luciani Projects brought artful elegance to a Baldwin Village condo, which was previously characterized by builder-basic features like fluorescent lights, beige walls, and pink wall-to-wall carpeting. Their transformation resulted in a sophisticated and refined living space. In the hospitality sector, Twenty-Two Twelve designed Hotel Julie in Stratford, Ontario, drawing inspiration from Shakespeare's works. The hotel features rooms with dramatic flourishes, offering a showstopper stay experience. Architect Wanda Ely demonstrated creativity in curves, translating a client's brief—featuring images of rocky outcrops, deep blue waters, and sinuous glaciers—into a high-concept home renovation that brought their dream to reality. AMA, a local architecture firm, executed a sustainable renovation of a Victorian semi-detached home in Little Italy. This project focused on preserving the historic character while integrating timeless design elements and sustainable solutions. Architect Yvonne Popovska revitalized a three-storey Edwardian home near High Park, originally divided into apartments, creating a classic and refined living space for a client. Batay-Csorba crafted a unique treehouse-inspired renovation in Humber River, earning recognition for its element of surprise achieved through familiar materials. Studio AC, recognized as Designer of the Year, created a discreet dwelling north of Toronto that artfully blended the indoors with the outdoors. These projects collectively represent the innovative spirit and diverse talent within the Toronto design community in 2023, setting a high standard for future design endeavors. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ResidentialDesign #PlywoodDesign #ResortStyleLiving #VictorianReno #KitchenUpgrade #SustainableDesign

This article, presented by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Nahla Madison Home, outlines eight expert-backed techniques to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of key rooms within a home. Tiffany Glasco, President and CEO of Nahla Madison Home, a St. Louis-based luxury interior design firm soon to be featured on HGTV, provides insights into transforming living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms into more sophisticated and inviting spaces. The core philosophy of Nahla Madison Home, as described, is to blend elegance with practical solutions, creating curated designs that uplift the home environment. For the living room, two primary strategies are highlighted. Firstly, layered lighting is emphasized as crucial for establishing ambiance. Glasco suggests combining overhead lighting with table and floor lamps, and sconces, along with dimmers, to allow for versatile mood adjustments. Secondly, the article recommends incorporating a variety of textures and materials to achieve a cozy yet luxurious feel. This involves mixing metals like brass and nickel with soft fabrics such as velvet, faux fur, and chunky knits, complemented by plush throw pillows and area rugs to add depth and richness. In the kitchen, the focus shifts to maximizing display and creating a focal point. Open shelving is presented as an opportunity to showcase fine kitchenware, cookbooks, and decorative items, adding character and enhancing functionality. The second idea for kitchens involves statement lighting, such as a bold pendant or chandelier over an island or dining area, which serves as a central design element. Additionally, updating cabinetry hardware with modern finishes like matte black or brushed gold is suggested as an affordable way to refresh the space. For bathrooms, the article suggests creating a tranquil retreat through natural elements and modern fixtures. Introducing plants or natural wood accents can infuse a sense of calm and bring the outdoors inside, promoting serenity. Upgrading hardware and fixtures to contemporary finishes like matte black or brushed gold is identified as an effective and quick method to modernize the bathroom’s overall aesthetic. Finally, for bedrooms, the emphasis is on establishing a sanctuary for rest and relaxation. Choosing soothing color palettes, including soft blues, neutrals, and greens, is recommended to foster a calming environment, with deeper hues used sparingly for accent walls or wallpaper to add depth without overwhelming the space. The second tip for bedrooms involves layering textiles, such as plush rugs, drapes, and soft bedding in various fabrics, to enhance comfort and create a luxurious feel. Incorporating soothing fragrances is also suggested to complete the peaceful ambiance. The article concludes by noting that Nahla Madison Home extends its expertise beyond interior design to include event planning, home staging, and wedding services, applying the same luxurious and detail-oriented approach to transform spaces for special occasions. Overall, the article serves as a guide for homeowners looking to elevate their living spaces, offering practical and stylish solutions for four key rooms, all underpinned by the design philosophy of Nahla Madison Home. #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHome #NahlaMadisonHome #LivingRoomDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeDecor

Designed & Made, a St. Paul, Minnesota-based custom woodworking shop founded by Brian Grabski, specializes in cabinetry, architectural woodwork, and original design pieces. The company's name, 'Designed & Made,' signifies its commitment to complete creative ownership, from initial concept to final construction. This philosophy is inspired by artisans who integrate design and making under one roof, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and alignment with the architectural vision of each project. The company maintains a small team of 10 highly skilled employees within its 8,000-square-foot facility. This intentional size allows for agility and exceptional quality control, while still being equipped to manage the demanding schedules of large-scale residential projects. This approach helps prevent overextension, guaranteeing that every project receives dedicated focus. Designed & Made's process emphasizes collaboration and precision, beginning with detailed discussions with architects, designers, or homeowners. The design phase involves development and 3D modeling, where proportions, details, and materials are refined collaboratively. Following approval, all engineering is performed in-house, generating precise shop drawings and CNC-ready files. Fabrication occurs on-site, integrating advanced machinery with traditional handcraftsmanship. Most projects are fully finished and assembled before delivery and installation. The majority of Designed & Made's work involves high-end residential cabinetry and millwork, often encompassing full-home packages. The company also undertakes select commercial projects that align with its values and methodology. Typically, two to three projects are active simultaneously, progressing through a linear workflow of design, engineering, fabrication, finishing, and installation. This structured approach maintains focus on quality and detail. Designed & Made offers end-to-end services, including design consulting, engineering, procurement, fabrication, logistics, and installation, enabling precise execution of complex, architecturally driven projects. The shop is equipped with two Holz-Her 3-axis CNC routers, digital modeling software (Rhino/Grasshopper/F360/Cabinet Vision), advanced spray finishing capabilities, an SCMI edgebander, a Timesavers 3-head widebelt sander, a Weinig moulder, and various other traditional woodworking tools. The company is recognized for its blend of digital fabrication and traditional woodworking, incorporating sculptural shaping, bookmatched veneers, custom joinery, and meticulous hand-finishing. Material selection is a collaborative process, involving the careful sourcing of hardwoods and veneers to ensure consistency in tone, grain, and figure, balancing performance with aesthetic requirements. Designed & Made operates as a sustainable company, utilizing FSC-certified hardwoods, optimizing material yields through digital nesting, and employing low-VOC finishing systems. The company's focus on longevity and quality inherently contributes to its sustainability strategy. Approximately 75 percent of the work involves kitchens, cabinetry, and architectural millwork, with the remaining 25 percent dedicated to specialty furniture and sculptural commissions. These unique pieces allow the team to explore innovative forms, materials, and processes, showcasing the company's capabilities at the intersection of architecture, design, and craftsmanship. A notable example of the company's capabilities is a custom pool table, displayed in their showroom. This "passion project" demonstrates Designed & Made's comprehensive skills in high-end design, digital modeling, machining, handcraftsmanship, and finishing. The pool table, inspired by a vintage Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. table, involved extensive 3D modeling and engineering by Brian Grabski and Duncan MacLeslie. Intricate details, such as genuine ivory inlays and hand-selected mahogany veneer, highlight the team's precision and artistic skill. Adrian Bileydi-Lee executed the veneering and ivory inlay, while Paul Perrone applied a custom, hand-rubbed finish. Andy Fleischhacker, the production foreman, oversaw the entire project. This collaborative effort exemplifies the company's belief that the combined skills of multiple craftsmen can produce results greater than the sum of individual contributions. Brian Grabski's woodworking journey began in high school, influenced by a shop teacher and an inspiring experience at Classic Woodworks. His entrepreneurial father further shaped his path, leading him to establish Designed & Made in 2005. Grabski was recognized as a Wood Industry 40 Under 40 in 2016 and continues to contribute to the industry by serving on the Board of Directors for the Saint Paul College Woodworking Program, offering curriculum feedback and shop tours to students. #CustomWoodworking #Cabinetry #ArchitecturalMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Craftsmanship #CNCMachining #SustainablePractices #FurnitureDesign #DesignBuild #InteriorDesign

Homeowners are increasingly investing in remodeling and home improvements, a trend that began during the pandemic and is projected to continue. This rise in demand has led to longer wait times for qualified professionals. However, successful home improvement projects often share several key characteristics that homeowners should consider. One crucial aspect is preserving the home's original character. Extensive renovations can sometimes strip a building of its unique charm, resulting in a disjointed appearance. To avoid this, new elements should complement the existing design rather than detract from it. Strategies for maintaining original character include refinishing hardwood floors, reinstalling or replicating existing door and window trim or moldings, and retaining interior ceiling or soffit details. Modern amenities should be chosen carefully to integrate naturally with the room's and home's inherent style. Another significant consideration is optimizing natural light. Post-pandemic, abundant natural light has become a highly desired feature in home designs. However, simply adding more lights or fixtures does not guarantee better illumination. The effective use of light depends on the size and strategic placement of windows and lighting fixtures, taking into account the home's layout and its orientation on the property. The different angles of light at various times of day are essential factors that an experienced professional can help integrate into the renovation plan, ensuring improvements enhance both character and balance within the space. Connecting with the outdoors is a third increasingly valued element, particularly for individuals who spend considerable time indoors, such as remote workers or stay-at-home parents. Interior design that thoughtfully incorporates outdoor elements can significantly improve well-being. There is high demand among young homeowners for indoor-outdoor spaces. Designers often recommend using biophilic elements to achieve this connection, which can include creating multilevel terraces, covered or sunken patios, window seats, garden windows, and outdoor kitchens with integrated living areas. Regardless of the scope or specific needs of a home improvement project, enlisting the expertise of a professional remodeler is highly recommended. These professionals can guide homeowners through the complex process and ensure that the renovation aligns with their vision while preserving the home's integrity. An opportunity to observe successful remodels and consult with experts is available at an annual remodeled homes tour, which showcases projects by top industry professionals. The event, held on Saturday, October 21st, offers both in-person and virtual tours of 12 homes, providing ideas, inspiration, and direct access to remodeling specialists. Pre-registration is encouraged for this free event, and virtual access remains available online for those unable to attend the live tour. Such events provide valuable insights into current trends and best practices in home renovation. #HomeRenovation #HomeImprovement #VintageCharacter #NaturalLight #OutdoorConnection #InteriorDesign #RemodelingProfessionals #HousingTrends #BiophilicDesign