House Tour: $40,000 DIY Colonial interior design for 5-room HDB at Havelock Road for a couple on a budget

This blog post details the renovation journey of Mareenah and her husband, who transformed their Pasir Ris resale HDB flat in Singapore into a modern coastal-themed retreat for approximately $60,000. The couple, inspired by their coastal holidays in Australia and the Maldives, sought to create a serene and fun atmosphere reminiscent of a beach holiday home. They specifically looked for a well-used property with an existing open-concept layout to minimize hacking costs, eventually finding a suitable unit near Mareenah's parents' home. Their initial renovation budget was $45,000, but it increased to nearly $60,000 due to unforeseen costs related to electrical wiring, mosaic tiling, and local carpentry during a period of limited manpower. This figure excluded appliance and furnishing expenses. The design philosophy centered on a balance between modern aesthetics and coastal elements, utilizing pure, clean tones to allow for easy color accents. Soft curves were incorporated throughout the design to soften the space and enhance safety for their young child. While they appreciated arches, they used them judiciously in areas with too many right angles. Rattan elements were also strategically included to evoke a tropical retreat ambiance. The couple prioritized preserving the home's original layout to save on renovation costs while still achieving an open-concept feel. Key areas of the home underwent thoughtful transformations. In the entryway, a half-wall with an arch shelving unit was constructed to ensure seamless flow between shared spaces and enhance breathability. The living room's TV was placed in an unconventional spot, camouflaged as art over a sideboard, to encourage conversation. The dining room retained some false ceiling, which was reshaped into a box design, and a ceiling fan replaced a pendant light for added functionality. Wooden flooring in a herringbone pattern complemented the rattan furnishings, reinforcing the coastal theme. A curved kitchen peninsula effectively divided the kitchen and dining areas while adding usability. The kitchen featured open shelving for the upper half and closed cabinets below for ample storage, with an extended area to accommodate a laundry space, all adorned with appropriately-themed backsplash tiles. The master bedroom was extended into the original living space to create room for an L-shaped wardrobe, and an irregularly shaped window added a unique touch. An arch partition was used to conceal an odd-shaped beam, providing space for a future baby cot. The son's bedroom featured vibrant colors but maintained the coastal theme with its half-wall design. The common bedroom was furnished with an Ikea Hemnes dresser and daybed, offering both simplicity and functionality as a convertible double bed for guests, along with a dedicated study area. Both bathrooms were re-tiled without altering the plumbing layout, one featuring warm-toned terrazzo tiles and the other cooler marble-look tiles. The renovation process, unexpectedly prolonged by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed Mareenah and her husband ample time for detailed planning and design, which they communicated effectively to their contractor, Majestic. They sourced additional vendors and furniture themselves to manage costs and find pieces that could adapt to future needs, including custom rattan furniture from Second Charm, timeless pieces from Castlery, decorative items from Island Living, and budget-friendly finds from Carousell, Marketplace, and Ikea. Despite a minor mishap with a false wall arch during window installation, the couple embraced these imperfections as part of their unique home. They emphasize that a home is a continuous project and advise thorough planning, especially for technical aspects like aircon and plumbing, to achieve both functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. #HDB #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CoastalDecor #OpenConcept #DIYDesign #BudgetRenovation #SingaporeHomes #ResaleFlat

The article details the transformation of a newly built, characterless spec house in East Hampton into a multilayered home brimming with personality, overseen by designer Heidi Caillier for client Colleen DeCourcy. DeCourcy, who leads the global creative team at Snap, sought to infuse the house with character after purchasing it as a standard builder's spec home featuring white walls and subway tiles. Her collaboration with Caillier, initiated through an online platform, quickly evolved into a traditional design partnership, marked by creative freedom and a shared appreciation for sophisticated design. The design philosophy centered on creating a home that felt as though it had been curated over time, avoiding the sterile appearance of new construction. Caillier achieved this by incorporating bespoke elements and a rich blend of textures, patterns, and historical influences. A significant aspect of the design involved integrating pieces from BDDW, a brand known for handmade furniture by artist Tyler Hays. Several BDDW items were selected, including a distinctive bench-cushioned sofa and custom-upholstered armchairs. The kitchen walls were adorned with BDDW tiles featuring Delft pottery-inspired flora-and-fauna vignettes, and Hays was commissioned to create an eight-foot-wide tapestry-like canvas for the living room, depicting a lakeside scene. The home’s aesthetic draws inspiration from British country interiors, characterized by deep, moody color palettes, often with rooms painted a single color including ceilings and trim, and an emphasis on coziness and intricate details. This nod to old-world traditions is evident in elements like classic floral prints, antique Persian rugs, and unique chandeliers. Despite the historical influences, the design is distinctly modern in its execution and ingenuity. For instance, the dining room features a hand-painted mural by James Mobley, with pastoral motifs inspired by local woodlands that extend onto the ceiling, creating an immersive experience. Each of the home’s 7,500 square feet was meticulously considered. The main communal areas—the dining room, kitchen, and living room—maintain a direct line of sight and chromatic harmony, yet each possesses a distinct identity. The library, for example, is enveloped in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves painted in Farrow & Ball’s Salon Drab, a chocolate brown, and furnished with 19th-century-inspired armchairs from Jamb, upholstered in plaid wool with velvet trim, alongside a large green ottoman and a vintage floor lamp. The property's four-acre landscape was also rewilded by local garden designer Charlie Marder, adding various tree species to establish a sense of heritage and connection to nature. Specialized details are prominent throughout the residence. A guest bath boasts a custom vanity with Bardiglio blue marble, custom Zia Tile floor tiles, and beadboard walls. Another guest room features a custom bed covered with a Melin Tregwynt Welsh Blanket, a Stephen White hanging light, and an Adam Pogue custom ottoman. The pantry is notable for its vibrant carmine red, achieved with Farrow & Ball’s Bamboozle paint. The primary bath showcases Portola Paints Lime Wash on its walls and a tub by The Water Monopoly, while the poolhouse bath is adorned with custom Tabarka tile, a vintage Italian modernist mirror, and a Barovier & Toso sconce. The comprehensive design approach aimed to create a home that felt rich with history and personal touches, rather than a brand-new space. This layered aesthetic reflects both the client's desire for a lived-in feel and the designer's philosophy of allowing creative freedom to manifest unique design ideals. The result is a home that seamlessly blends classical inspirations with contemporary artistry, creating a comfortable and visually engaging environment for DeCourcy and her family. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HamptonsHome #HeidiCaillier #CustomFurniture #BDDW #BritishCountryInteriors #ArtIntegration #LuxuryLiving

This article features an interview with Cara Irwin, the blogger behind Goldalamode, offering a tour of her home in Brick, New Jersey, which she shares with her fiancé Mike, their three dogs, and numerous plants. Irwin discusses her journey into home and design blogging, which began shortly after she and Mike purchased their home in 2013. Initially, she started decorating and fixing up the house, sharing her progress on Instagram for fun, eventually realizing her passion for home design due to positive feedback from her growing audience. Irwin describes her aesthetic as bright and minimal, with a clear lean towards midcentury modern style infused with boho elements. She emphasizes keeping spaces fresh and incorporates plants extensively in her decor. Her design process, initially spontaneous, evolved into a more structured, room-by-room approach after experimenting with different wall colors, ultimately settling on white walls to allow furniture, patterns, and colors to stand out. She also uses black accent walls, considering black a neutral that helps bright elements pop. When it comes to sourcing decor, Irwin highlights Home Goods and thrift stores as her top choices, valuing the "hunt appeal" of discovering unique pieces. She believes these sources provide distinctive items that are not commonly seen elsewhere, and she advocates for budget-friendly decorating. Her tips for affordable design include shopping second-hand from platforms like Craigslist, Letgo, and Facebook Marketplace, and fixing up items herself. She also recommends stores like Home Goods and Target for their affordable home decor, especially during clearance sales, emphasizing that good design doesn't require expensive items. Irwin shares her passion for plants and art, crediting her mother for these interests. She finds mature plants at estate sales, Craigslist, and other selling apps, often rehabilitating distressed plants. For art, she supports local artists and Instagram creators, in addition to finding pieces in thrift and antique stores. Her favorite room is the dining room, which she uses as her workspace, followed by the living room, due to the company of her dogs. She draws inspiration from diverse sources, including beach aesthetics and vintage decor books from the 1960s to 1980s. The role of her fiancé, Mike, in their home design is also discussed; his handiness enables many DIY projects. Irwin notes that Mike's willingness to build and execute her design ideas, even when unfamiliar with a task, has been instrumental, mentioning a significant DIY project where they installed a window in their dining room to enhance natural light. Her favorite memory in the home is Mike's proposal in their backyard, a moment she cherishes despite the then-undeveloped landscape. Irwin also explains the bold choice of painting their front door blush pink, driven by a desire to embrace a design idea that initially felt scary, believing such choices often lead to amazing results. She expresses appreciation for tassels and fringe in her decor, finding them fun and effective for adding texture. Ultimately, Irwin values the community and relationships she has built through blogging, aiming to help others create more enjoyable homes. #HomeTour #BohoChic #BudgetDecor #DIYHomeDecor #MidcenturyModern #PlantDecor #ThriftStoreFinds #HomeDesignBlog #NewJerseyHome

This article details the transformation of an HDB maisonette in Hougang into a colonial-styled home, achieved through a $70,000 renovation (excluding furnishings). The homeowners, Subashini and Prakash, sought to combine their appreciation for bold, statement interior designs with the monochromatic and elegant elements characteristic of black and white colonial houses. They enlisted the DISTINCTidENTITY design team, who completed the renovation in eight weeks, with the family moving in during July 2021. The design process focused on creating a spacious and integrated living environment. The previously closed and dark kitchen was converted into an open-concept space, serving as a central hub. A key feature of the kitchen is a vibrant blue accent wall, chosen to complement a specific painting the homeowners wanted to display, and echoed in a custom dining table from De Woodscape. The kitchen also incorporates a waterfall island counter, fulfilling Subashini's request for a baking space and offering additional counter area, storage for appliances, and a family-friendly spot for children to assist with chores. Functionality was also a priority in the kitchen's redesign. The original entrance to the powder room from the kitchen was sealed, and a new access point was created from the passageway. This strategic change not only ensured guest privacy by making the powder room accessible from the living area but also carved out essential space for a dedicated laundry area, complete with a sink, washing machine, and dryer. An otherwise unused area at the foot of the stairs was creatively transformed into a bar area, designed to serve as a foyer. This space features a standing bar and two rattan chairs, which were specifically chosen to complement the living room's wooden elements and provide additional seating for entertaining guests. The home's furniture and decor were entirely new purchases, aligning with the black and white colonial theme, with some pieces sourced from secondhand stores to enhance the aesthetic. The exterior terrace was meticulously designed to integrate with the colonial theme. Checkered tiles, laid diagonally, were chosen for the balcony to add visual depth. Horizontal invisible grilles were installed for safety without obstructing the view or the home's natural light and breeze. The homeowners opted not to cover the east-west facing terrace, instead decorating it with large potted plants suited to rain and sunshine, highlighting their preference for natural elements. The bathrooms were also given careful consideration; the powder room and children’s bathroom were designed with an 'infinity' tiling layout to create an illusion of greater space, while the master bathroom adopted a sophisticated black and white tile scheme with gold trimmings. #HDBMaisonette #ColonialStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #OpenConceptKitchen #MonochromaticPalette #TerraceDesign #SingaporeHomes

This article details the renovation of a 925 sq ft, 4-room HDB resale flat at Balam Road for a homeowner who is a music and plant enthusiast and enjoys hosting guests. The interior design, executed by Threehaus Works and led by Thi Yi, focused on creating unique spaces that reflect the homeowner's passions, featuring angled walls and a raw, industrial aesthetic. The renovation cost approximately $85,000 and took about four-and-a-half months to complete, concluding in June 2024. One of the primary design objectives was to create an indoor balcony for entertaining. This was achieved by demolishing an existing wall between the living room and an adjacent bedroom and erecting a new diagonal wall, resulting in a trapezoidal balcony space. The entrance foyer features terracotta tiles in a triangulated section, mirroring the diagonal balcony wall, to signify the transition from outside to inside. This is further emphasized by the main floor being a step up from the foyer, and the contrast between the terracotta and the cement screed in the living and dining areas, eliminating the need for physical partitions. The living room is centered around a custom-built concrete television console designed to house the homeowner's turntable, speakers, and vinyl collection, also serving as a bench for guests. Its angled form complements the other diagonal elements in the home, ensuring cohesive design language and improving circulation towards the kitchen. The living room's raw finishes and grungy aesthetic align with the homeowner's personal style, and a "blank canvas" area above the console provides space to display travel souvenirs and concert posters. The balcony area is specifically designed for the homeowner's extensive plant collection, featuring ample shelving and provisions for hanging plants. A sliding door separates the balcony from the living room, maintaining air-conditioning efficiency, while glass blocks allow natural light to diffuse into the living space. Terracotta floor tiles in the balcony further enhance the illusion of an outdoor area within the enclosed space. In the dining room, a custom-made window grille, reminiscent of classic HDB designs, acts as a nostalgic backdrop for the homeowner's memorabilia and board games. Deliberately mismatched dining chairs add an eclectic touch to the area. The kitchen initially had patterned tiles that the interior designer considered salvaging but were mostly lost during removal. A few pieces were rescued and repurposed as coasters, serving as a memento of the original flat. A bright orange pipe in the kitchen, along with a similar one in the common bathroom, was intentionally retained and highlighted with color rather than concealed. The master bedroom adopts a minimalist approach to foster a calm and restful environment, with no built-in carpentry and an open wardrobe system reinforcing this style. The master bathroom was expanded by repositioning a wall to incorporate a vanity area. A half-height parapet wall separates the shower and includes a niche for toiletries. Finally, a dedicated home office nook was created as a natural outcome of the diagonal wall in the living space, providing a focused area for work. The renovation involved extensive demolition and reconfiguring of internal walls, contributing to the total duration and cost, partly due to the flat's age requiring additional structural and infrastructure assessments. #HomeTour #HDBResale #FourRoomFlat #InteriorDesign #Renovation #ThreehausWorks #BalamRoad #MusicLoverHome #PlantLoverHome

This article details the transformation of a 1,160 sq ft 4-room HDB flat in Hougang, Singapore, into a black-and-white colonial-themed home for film producer and life coach Daniel Yun. Collaborating with design director Adrian Heng from Spaceone ID Consultancy and contractor Stack Studio, Yun's vision for a monochromatic aesthetic, drawing parallels to filmmaking where a white canvas fades to black, is brought to life. The design concept emphasizes a blend of colonial charm with modern functionality, meticulously executed to create distinct yet cohesive living spaces. The entrance to the flat features a striking black metal gate with open latticework, establishing the colonial theme right from the outset. This initial impression is reinforced by a built-in shoe cabinet, Venetian blinds, and pendant lamps, all contributing to a balanced interplay of solid and void elements. The main door also incorporates the lattice motif, adding to the home's overall design narrative. The dining area, located beyond the foyer, is designed for both elegance and practicality. An extendable eight-seater dining table, capable of accommodating twelve, serves as the focal point, catering to Daniel Yun's frequent hosting of guests. A lengthy built-in sideboard along the dining room wall provides display space for a vibrant painting, offering a splash of color against the predominantly black-and-white backdrop. The open-plan living and dining area is intelligently segmented to create distinct zones. A black-and-white striped rug defines the living space, furnished with a custom-designed sofa, wooden-backed chairs, and a round coffee table. Instead of a traditional feature wall, a freestanding television unit is used, allowing for a gallery of Daniel Yun’s black-and-white photographs of iconic HDB landmarks, reflecting his connection to Singaporean heritage. These images, including the dragon playground in Toa Payoh and sloping flats in Bukit Panjang, personalize the space and narrate a story. The kitchen is innovatively designed as an open-concept space featuring two peninsula islands—one for storage and the other as a breakfast counter. These islands facilitate interaction during gatherings. Three distinct pendant lamps, referred to as “Dracula lamps,” provide a gothic touch, contrasting with the white cabinetry and KompacPlus countertops. A sliding glass door partitions the kitchen proper from the island area, and the entire cooking zone, helper’s room, and appliance storage areas maintain the consistent black-and-white theme, extending to the black glass backsplash and white subway tiles in the adjacent bathroom. The master suite is a highlight, created by merging the original master bedroom, an adjacent room, and a storeroom. This expansive private sanctuary is accessed through a double-leaf door and comprises a sleeping area that flows into a lounge space. The lounge is furnished with a circular daybed, a round rug, and spherical pendant lights, which introduce soft curves to counteract the room's angularity. The master bathroom continues the monochrome theme with checkerboard tiles, adding a playful yet cohesive element to the colonial-inspired design. The thoughtful integration of details, from the vanity to the overall aesthetic, contributes to a space that is both personal and stylish. Daniel Yun emphasizes the successful execution of his vision, crediting Adrian Heng for elevating his rudimentary ideas into a complete design. Heng highlights the effective use of design elements such as latticework, stripes, and skeletal forms to give the home its depth and character. The residence functions as a personal expression of creativity and heritage, harmoniously blending colonial elegance with a modern black-and-white aesthetic. #HomeTour #ColonialDesign #BlackAndWhiteInterior #HDBFlat #InteriorDesign #SpaceoneIDConsultancy #SingaporeHome #MonochromaticTheme #FilmProducerHome

This article highlights a $30,000 renovation of an HDB flat in Singapore, transforming it into a contemporary Scandinavian-style home with industrial elements. The project, undertaken by Space Factor, focused on achieving a cohesive and spacious aesthetic within a limited budget. The design incorporates a palette of wood tones, whites, and greys, complemented by light-colored furniture and clean lines, all of which enhance the natural light flowing through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The renovation, completed in 2016, successfully integrated two unique feature walls without exceeding the financial constraints. To add visual interest and depth, the interior designers utilized creative techniques to craft the feature walls. One prominent feature wall in the living room was designed to mimic riveted metal plates. This effect was achieved through imprinted surfaces and painted a soft grey, which creates dynamic shadow play under ambient lighting. This industrial-inspired trompe l’oeil adds character while maintaining harmony with the overall Scandinavian theme, demonstrating how innovative solutions can be budget-friendly. Another feature wall, situated behind the bar counter, was treated to resemble a rustic brick wall, providing a warm contrast to the cooler tones of the living space and serving as a conversation piece without the cost or structural issues of actual exposed brickwork. Recognizing the homeowners' desire for wooden accents, the designers opted for wood-lookalike laminates as a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to real wood. These laminates were extensively used for various elements, including the bar counter, a matching TV console-cum-bench, and wall-mounted cabinetry. This choice not only contributed to the tactile comfort and visual warmth essential to Scandinavian design but also addressed environmental concerns associated with genuine hardwoods. The consistent application of these materials throughout the home, including floor-to-ceiling storage units in the master bedroom and study, creates a sense of unity and makes the HDB flat appear more expansive than its actual size. The renovation successfully balanced aesthetics, functionality, and budget, proving that a well-designed home does not always require significant financial outlay. The selection of materials and design strategies, such as using paint for texture and laminates for wood effects, allowed Space Factor to deliver a stylish and practical living environment. The emphasis on natural light, combined with the strategic use of textures and materials, embodies the Danish concept of 'hygge,' fostering a sense of coziness and well-being for the occupants. This project serves as an example of thoughtful interior design that maximizes impact and provides emotional consistency within an affordable housing context. #HomeTour #ScandinavianInteriorDesign #HDBFlat #Renovation #BudgetFriendlyDesign #FeatureWalls #WoodLikeLaminates #InteriorDesign #SpaceFactor

This article showcases a 2016 HDB BTO flat that has been transformed by designer Chong Su Min of M3 Studio into a living space inspired by colonial black and white houses and Peranakan design. The design approach begins with minimalism, utilizing concrete screed floors and white painted walls as a neutral backdrop to emphasize the furniture and decor. A key element of the transformation involves spatial reimagination through BTO room hacking, specifically removing one bedroom to expand the living and dining areas, creating a more open and fluid environment. A built-in storage daybed under the windows serves both functional and decorative purposes, aligning with the vintage aesthetic of the home. The entrance features colorful patterned mosaic tiles from An Huat Trading, seamlessly integrated into the concrete screed flooring, establishing an immediate visual impact. A wooden table from the International Furniture Fair Singapore is enhanced with a stone tabletop that includes a mother-of-pearl inlay, reflecting a careful selection of unique design elements. The living area is adorned with decorative platters and plates collected from Spain and Arab Street. A notable design innovation in this space is the use of ventilation blocks in a back-lit feature wall behind the TV, blending traditional and contemporary design elements. Vintage decor is carefully curated throughout the flat. A wooden cabinet with sliced agate handles serves as a focal point for displaying collected items, while framed Peranakan tiles, sourced from the Sungei Road flea market, add historical and cultural layers to the white walls. The kitchen maintains the vintage-inspired aesthetic with jade green subway tiles and terracotta-look floor tiles from Hafary, complemented by cabinet doors with paneling details and Ikea handles. Even small details, such as light switches sourced from Penang, Malaysia, contribute to the cohesive design narrative. Peranakan influences are evident in various parts of the home, including the master bedroom, which features a second-hand, dark-stained wooden bed frame with a woven cane headboard from Expat Auctions, blending vintage charm with contemporary sensibilities. In the bathrooms, new patterns and solid colors overlay existing tiles, and shower screens with black frames are incorporated to maintain clean lines and a refined aesthetic. Each design decision is intentional, aiming to create a cohesive and well-thought-out living space. The article concludes by highlighting how this HDB BTO flat serves as an example of thoughtful design, demonstrating that a compact living space can be transformed into a story-rich home that celebrates Singapore’s architectural and cultural heritage through creative curation and a deep understanding of design history. #HomeTour #ColonialDesign #PeranakanInspired #HDBBTO #InteriorDesign #VintageDecor #SpatialReimagination #M3Studio #SingaporeanHeritage

Architect and designer Kartik Desai, along with his husband Zane Philstrom, transformed an abandoned mobile home property in Southold, North Fork of Long Island, New York, into a modern, cost-effective family residence with breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. The couple purchased the dilapidated property in 2012, initially using it as a campsite while they designed their dream home, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings as the primary inspiration. The design philosophy centered on maximizing the Long Island Sound view, ensuring every room and the swimming pool faced the water. To achieve this vision while adhering to budget constraints, Desai implemented several clever cost-cutting solutions. For instance, in the living room, instead of an expensive custom sectional, they opted for an affordable IKEA sectional and customized it with removable, washable linen covers from Bemz, providing both a polished look and practical maintenance for a beach house environment. The living room also features a massive 12-foot hearth fireplace that doubles as a bench, and a clever panel concealing the television. The dining room, kitchen, and living area were designed as a cohesive communal space. A continuous bank of sliding doors along the ground floor was a key design element to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. To avoid the high cost of a custom 50-foot sliding door system, they utilized four standard-width bay units. These were then integrated seamlessly with natural oak finishes, extending to cabinetry and using cabinet face material to fill the gaps, making it appear as a single, custom system. Desai highlights this as an example of making standard-sized elements look bespoke. In the kitchen, budget-friendly material swaps were crucial. The original plan for concrete floors, countertops, and fireplace surround was deemed too expensive. Instead, large format tiles from Porcelanosa were used for the floor, and quartz for the countertops and fireplace surround. These alternatives provided a similar aesthetic to concrete but offered benefits such as durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. The open kitchen design allows Philstrom, an avid cook, to engage with guests in the dining and living areas or by the pool. The bedrooms and bathrooms also maintain continuity with the home's overall aesthetic and practical design. Bedrooms offer serene views of the ocean, with furniture from brands like CB2, Blu Dot, Parachute, and IKEA. The bathroom similarly boasts sweeping views of the Long Island Sound, utilizing the same practical and durable materials as the main living areas, with fixtures from Kohler, mirrors from Rejuvenation, and tiles from Porcelanosa. This strategic approach to design and material selection enabled the couple to create a sophisticated, zen-like Hamptons home without exceeding their budget, transforming an uninhabitable structure into a modern sanctuary. #HomeDesign #CostSavingTips #HamptonsHome #ModernArchitecture #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #OceanViewHome #SustainableLiving

Ashley and Max, newlyweds, recently transformed their 1,068-square-foot 1920s bungalow in Madison, Wisconsin, into a cozy and personalized home. The couple moved from Boston, where homeownership was financially challenging, to Madison for Max's PhD studies at UW Madison. Inspired by Ashley's father, a civil engineer with a construction background, they sought an older home with character that they could renovate themselves. They purchased the bungalow, which, despite being livable, was in need of significant updates. The kitchen, in particular, was outdated and poorly designed, with an illogical layout that included the refrigerator obstructing a bedroom doorway. The outdoor space was also overgrown, and the interior walls featured bright orange and yellow paint. Their renovation journey began with gutting and revamping the kitchen. Max personally laid the new tile, while Ashley's father and uncle assisted with painting and assembling ready-to-assemble cabinets. This collaborative family effort resulted in the kitchen becoming one of their favorite rooms. Beyond the kitchen, they meticulously repainted all interior walls and the exterior siding and trim. Ashley also worked with a local nursery to select native plants for the yard and uncovered a hidden patio and fire pit, which they later used as the venue for their wedding in July 2022. This personal connection imbued the home with significant sentimental value, symbolizing their shared commitment and teamwork. The couple's personal interests are visibly integrated into the home's aesthetic. Ashley, with a background in art and poetry, and Max, a PhD student in U.S. history and education policy, appreciate older items, which aligns with the bungalow's 1920s architecture. Original features like scalloped arches, a large multi-panel dining room window, and 1920s bathroom tile were preserved and highlighted during the renovation. Ashley curated a gallery wall from her extensive collection of personal artwork, travel photographs, old maps, and souvenirs, creating a deeply personal and meaningful display. Their furniture selections reflect an eclectic approach, combining sentimental family heirlooms, such as a leather chair from Ashley's grandmother, with self-built pieces like a bookcase/TV stand, and budget-friendly finds from IKEA and Facebook Marketplace. This mix of textures, colors, and styles, featuring pops of orange and green against neutral tones, contributes to the home's warm and personal ambiance, with each item holding a unique story. The dining room, open to the living space, stands out as Ashley's favorite area. She envisioned it as a versatile space for work, reading, art, hosting, and games, appreciating the abundant natural light from the large window and the conversational appeal of the gallery wall. A bright yellow front door further adds to the home's charm. Their latest acquisition was an Art Deco mirror, a $20 Facebook Marketplace find, placed above an IKEA bar cart, highlighting their knack for discovering unique pieces affordably. Their advice for creating a beloved home centers on choosing items that bring joy, rather than strictly adhering to matching aesthetics, and experimenting with various colors, materials, textures, and furniture styles to achieve a cohesive and personal space. #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #DIYHome #EclecticDecor #HistoricArchitecture #CoupleGoals #PersonalizedHome #MadisonWisconsin #HouseTour

The article details the renovation of Lisa and Andrew Yeager's 1920s Birmingham bungalow, a project driven by their desire to stay in their cherished Crestwood neighborhood despite outgrowing their home. After 12 years, the primary challenge was the single bathroom, which was no longer practical for a family of four. Rather than moving, the couple opted for a renovation, enlisting Laura Harris, a registered interior designer with construction drawing experience, to draft a new floor plan. The renovation focused on several key non-negotiables. A second bathroom was paramount, alongside bringing the basement staircase up to code to transform the storage area into a finished living space, which now includes a Murphy bed for guests. Other essential changes included enlarging all closets, closing off impractical doorways, and reconstructing a slanted utility room at the back of the house. This reconstruction created a primary bath, a much-needed walk-in closet, and a spacious multi-purpose laundry room. The homeowner, Lisa, expressed significant relief at having a walk-in closet, a luxury in a house of this age. To maximize the small living room, Laura's design involved replacing an oversized sliding door with a solid wall to accommodate a couch. The renovation also meticulously preserved the home's original character, such as ceiling beams and built-in half-wall bookshelves, which distinguish the living room from the adjacent dining room. A crucial budget-saving strategy was retaining as much existing infrastructure as possible, including reusing doors and windows and keeping plumbing in its original locations to avoid costly pipe alterations. The homeowners appreciate that every square inch of the house is now utilized daily, making it highly livable. For finishes and fixtures, the Yeagers collaborated with designer Mackin Thompson, known for her keen eye. Mackin drew inspiration from the living room's original sky blue walls, repainting them with Farrow & Ball's Light Blue, and extending a calming blue-and-green color palette throughout the home. To furnish the bungalow economically, Mackin helped integrate heirloom pieces from Lisa's late father, such as the dining table, a piano, a twin bed, and a nightstand. These items, initially thought unusable, were creatively incorporated into the design. The project successfully transformed a charming but functionally limited house into a larger, more efficient living space while adhering to a modest budget. The entire expansion was limited to a single 3-foot-deep build-out across the back of the house. The renovation highlights strategic choices such as prioritizing gathering areas, embracing personal preferences like a large family dining table, and sourcing artwork from unexpected places like Target and Facebook Marketplace. The kitchen update was a low-lift effort involving reconfiguring existing elements, keeping appliances, and updating surfaces with new backsplash, quartz countertops, and ready-made cabinetry color-matched to Benjamin Moore's Grant Beige, along with Sherwin-Williams' Alabaster on the walls. Mackin advised splurging on main hubs like the kitchen and living room and being more conservative in other areas. The only entertaining space, which also serves as the entry, was enhanced with Ballard Designs banquettes, estate sale furniture re-covered in performance fabrics, and bamboo shades to increase seating and natural light. Architectural elements were emphasized using Sherwin-Williams' Agate Green on millwork and ceilings to make trim pop. In the primary bedroom, a high-low balance was struck, splurging on a new bed, side tables, and dresser while using affordable linens and lamps from Target and a rug from Rugs USA, creating a comfortable haven. #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #HistoricHome #FamilyHome #HomeDecor #SmallSpaceLiving #BirminghamHome

Designer David Netto recounts his experience transforming a 1930s Colonial-style house in Connecticut for a young family who moved from New York City. The house, initially described as sweet but unfortunately 'juiced' with additions like wings and dormers, retained its intimate scale and a charming pastoral view of a field with sheep. Netto observed that the house, in its initial state, reflected the clients' potential, still awaiting full realization. The clients, described as gracious and enthusiastic, presented a dynamic duo: the wife, a natural and gentle hostess, and the husband, a successful commercial real estate advisor with a strong sense of humor, stemming from his early career experiences with Leona Helmsley. Initially, Netto focused on respecting the established budget, which led to presenting standard showroom furniture options. However, an inflection point arose when the wife expressed a subtle disappointment, prompting Netto to set aside budget constraints and present his most ambitious and desired design ideas. This shift in approach marked a turning point in the project, allowing for the incorporation of exceptional and unique pieces. The house now features exquisite furniture such as a 1930s parchment cabinet in the living room and a Francois-Xavier Lalanne bird-shaped table. High-end finishes were introduced, including a reclaimed stone floor in the sunroom and French limestone mantels sourced from Europe. A Picasso plate is mounted in the stair hall, juxtaposed with a canoe paddle, highlighting a blend of high art and rustic elements. The project saw a second significant development with the involvement of architect Sam Mitchell. Recognizing that a simple paint job wouldn't suffice for the desired transformation, Netto brought Mitchell in for spatial reinvention. Mitchell reorganized the kitchen wing and designed an oak-paneled master bath with a limestone cabochon floor, described as one of the most beautiful Netto had ever seen. Mitchell also integrated vintage farmhouse beams into the family room, making it appear as if they had always been there. For the poolhouse, Netto envisioned a California-inspired, movie-star decadent aesthetic, which Mitchell perfectly interpreted, complementing the Colonial main house. The surrounding garden was designed by Tim Paterson and Ahmad Sardar-Afkhami. Netto employed a 'high-low' design philosophy, combining the exquisite finds from the 'Yes Day' with more accessible items discovered at Friday night auctions at Stair Galleries and during a bonding trip to Hudson to fill remaining gaps. This approach allowed for a balance of luxurious and more budget-friendly elements, fostering a collaborative spirit with the clients. A memorable moment from a road trip involved rescuing a turtle from the road, symbolizing the unexpected and intimate experiences that arise during such projects. Ultimately, the client's perspective underscores the success of the design: the house is described as comfortable, cool, and elegant. This is humorously exemplified by the Lalanne bird table, frequently covered in Legos with a note from their daughter, emphasizing the lived-in and family-friendly nature of the sophisticated space. The article was originally featured in the July/August 2020 issue of VERANDA, with interior design by David Netto, architecture by Sam Mitchell, and landscape design by Tim Paterson and Ahmad Sardar-Afkhami. #ColonialHouse #InteriorDesign #ConnecticutHome #LuxuryDecor #HomeTransformation #ArchitecturalRenovation #HighLowDesign #FamilyHome #DavidNetto

This article details the renovation of a 4-room HDB flat by homeowner Desmond Ong, an architecture graduate, who transformed his living space into a minimalist, open-concept home. The total renovation cost amounted to $80,000, with $70,000 allocated to enhancing the flat's views and $10,000 spent on minimalist furnishings. The primary objective was to create an expansive and uncluttered environment, suitable for his two young daughters to play freely, while simultaneously maximizing the natural light and views of the surrounding greenery. The living and dining areas form the central focus of the home, designed with an open-concept layout. The dining area features a custom-lengthened table from Origin Asia, accommodating six individuals comfortably, and is complemented by modern chairs. The living room maintains a minimalist aesthetic with select essential furniture, including an iconic Hans Wegner chair that establishes a cozy reading nook. This space overlooks the lush greenery through floor-to-ceiling windows, integrating the outdoors with the interior. The kitchen is also designed with an open-concept approach, seamlessly connecting to the dining area and serving as a prominent feature upon entry. It adheres to the minimalist theme with clean lines, flat panel cabinets, and a simple solid surface countertop. This design choice contributes to the bright and airy atmosphere prevalent throughout the flat. Desmond's study area features a simple wooden plank serving as a wall-mounted table beneath a window, offering a view for relaxation. A custom stationery holder from Grafunkt is integrated to keep the workspace organized and free from clutter, aligning with the overall minimalist ethos. The common bathroom also received a minimalist renovation. It features a custom-made concrete sink, providing a sleek and streamlined appearance. The walls are plastered in white, contributing to a clean, classic aesthetic that enhances the perception of space in the compact area. A bamboo ladder towel rack introduces a warm, organic contrast to the concrete elements. Through the implementation of an open-concept layout, strategic built-in features, and low-profile furnishings, the design successfully created a bright and spacious family home. The residence capitalizes on green views, provides ample play space, and maintains a serene, modern minimalist environment with clean lines, organic accents, and a natural color palette, ensuring comfort and liveability for the family. #HomeTour #MinimalistDesign #OpenConcept #HDBFlat #Renovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BrightAndAiry #ArchitectureGraduate

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

This article offers a comprehensive visual tour of a 'Cool Spaces' home situated at 100 Jillian Way in South Hanover Township, showcasing its various architectural and interior design features. The residence, a product of Roland Builder, emphasizes modern living and thoughtful space utilization across its multiple levels. The tour begins with an exterior shot of the home, providing a general overview of its design. Inside, the mudroom is highlighted as a highly functional area, integrating a desk, cubbies, lockers, a walk-in closet, and a partial bath, demonstrating a focus on practical storage and utility. A significant architectural element noted is the three-story open stairway, which acts as a central artery connecting the finished lower level, the main living areas, and the bedrooms on the upper floor. This design choice not only facilitates movement but also enhances the open feel of the interior. The main living spaces include a kitchen, dining room, and a great room. The kitchen area is presented from multiple angles, emphasizing its layout and connection to other parts of the home. The great room features a cathedral ceiling and a ceiling-height stone fireplace, serving as a prominent focal point and contributing to an expansive ambiance. Views from the great room extend into the dining area and kitchen, illustrating an open-concept design that encourages seamless interaction between these spaces. A breezeway is featured, connecting the garage to the main house, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical shelter. The study, located off the foyer, provides a dedicated space for work or contemplation, while a first-floor guest bedroom, also accessible from the foyer, includes built-in window seating, adding charm and functionality. The covered front porch presents an inviting entry point to the residence. The owner’s suite is detailed, particularly its bath, which includes a soaking tub, suggesting a focus on comfort and luxury. The owner's suite also features walk-in closets with pocket doors on either side of the bath entry, optimizing space and privacy. The finished lower level is noted to include additional living space, a bedroom, and a full bath, indicating versatility for guests or extended family. The upper floor houses the main bedroom areas, accessed via the open stairway, further emphasizing the home's multi-level functionality and design coherence. The photography systematically covers each mentioned area, offering a visual narrative of the home's design and features, without delving into specific design philosophies or construction techniques beyond what is visible. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #ArchitecturalFeatures #Mudroom #GreatRoom #OpenConcept #LuxuryHome #SouthHanoverTownship

This article showcases a Harwich Port home on Cape Cod that has undergone a significant renovation to fully embrace its oceanfront location. The interior design, spearheaded by Cambridge interior designer Tricia Luong, focuses on integrating the sea views into every aspect of the living space. The homeowners, a young family of three, purchased the 5,478-square-foot house, originally built in 1992, with the goal of making the ocean a central element of its design. The renovation involved opening up and brightening the space, strategically adding new windows to maximize the views. A fluid layout was implemented on the first floor to encourage easier movement and enhance visibility from the kitchen through the living areas to the outside. Luong meticulously planned the height of every light fixture and minimized window treatments facing the water to ensure an unobstructed connection to the ocean. The design aesthetic is a subtle coastal vibe, eschewing traditional nautical clichés. Luong incorporated muted blues, touches of turquoise, rattan, brass, and natural fibers like linen and seagrass throughout the home. Examples include a Cisco Home bed reupholstered in Villa Nova’s “Calvia River” fabric and Phillip Jeffries’s “Vinyl Magnetism” wallcovering in “Slate Current” in the bathroom, creating a sophisticated marine influence without being overpowering. The primary bathroom features white cabinets, Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, and Made Good mirrors adorned with small shells, radiating metallic and bright elements. Unique architectural features include circular windows in vaulted dormers above the dining room and primary suite, resembling portholes, which elevate the vantage point and draw in more light. Accordion glass doors in the cabana room provide direct access to the pool area and invite the ocean breeze indoors. An ombre bar-height dining table by Aronson Woodworks encourages casual interaction and fluid movement, complementing a round Made Goods table in the dining room used for game nights. Texture plays a crucial role in achieving the desired coastal feel, adding richness and warmth to the largely monochromatic palette. Concrete coffee tables, a weathered teak chaise, a rattan vanity, and white oak lining the walls and ceilings contribute to a minimalistic, serene vacation home atmosphere. The homeowners envisioned a bright and beautiful space with crisp whites and medium-toned blues, reflecting the ocean's colors and embodying a sense of relaxation and calmness, rather than strong contrasts. The project was executed by Cape & Islands Construction Co., with interior design by Tricia Luong Design and photo styling by Sean William Styling. #HomeDesign #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #HarwichPort #CapeCodHome #OceanView #RenovationProject #LuxuryHome #TriciaLuongDesign

This article highlights an interior design project by Metaphor Studio that transforms a home into a minimalist, hotel-style living space, blending sophistication with comfort. The design philosophy centers on utilizing framing designs on various architectural elements such as walls, doors, and ceilings, a technique commonly found in high-end hotels to create a cohesive and structured aesthetic. This deliberate use of framing enhances the visual appeal and contributes to a sense of depth and architectural interest throughout the home. A key aspect of the design is the meticulous application of a monochromatic color scheme, primarily focusing on variations of white. These whites are presented in both matte and glossy textures, which subtly introduce depth and dimension to the living and dining areas without introducing additional colors. This textural contrast ensures that the space, while monochromatic, remains dynamic and visually engaging, preventing it from appearing flat or monotonous. The choice of white also contributes to the minimalist objective, fostering a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. The design incorporates thin black borders, strategically applied to creamy wall panels, which serve to accentuate the architectural lines and provide a crisp contrast against the softer white tones. This detailing is extended to the dining area through black-and-white dining chairs, further enhancing the sleek and classy ambiance. The combination of black and white is a classic choice for hotel-style interiors, known for its timeless elegance and ability to create a sophisticated atmosphere. These elements are not just decorative but also functional, defining spaces and guiding the eye through the interior. Attention to detail is evident in the corridor design, where a custom sideboard and a mirrored wall are integrated to create an attractive focal point. The mirrored wall not only serves an aesthetic purpose by reflecting light and expanding the perceived size of the corridor but also provides a practical element. The custom sideboard offers storage or display space, further enhancing the corridor's functionality and visual interest, turning what might otherwise be a transitional space into a thoughtfully designed area. In the bedroom, the design extends to functional elements such as wardrobe doors. These doors are elevated from mere utility to design features through the incorporation of thin black borders and metallic half-moon handles. This thoughtful detailing allows the wardrobe doors to double as a feature wall, contributing to the room's overall aesthetic and maintaining the consistent hotel-style theme. The metallic handles add a touch of luxury and refinement, aligning with the posh aspect of the hotel-inspired design. Overall, the project by Metaphor Studio successfully delivers a home environment that embodies both luxury and comfort through its minimalist, hotel-style interior design. #MinimalistInterior #HotelStyleDesign #PoshHome #CosyInteriors #MetaphorStudio #MonochromaticScheme #FramingDesigns #BlackAndWhite #ElegantLiving