'The client loved the soul of the house and was so clear about the life she envisioned living in it' – explore an eclectic 1970s home that's the perfect blend of retro charm and modern style

This lookbook presents a curated selection of eight living rooms that embody the opulent and distinctive design characteristics of the 1970s. These spaces draw on retro aesthetics, featuring rich, vivid colors, diverse textures, and period-appropriate furnishings to create decadent interiors. The collection showcases various residential projects, from urban apartments to renovated townhouses, illustrating how designers and homeowners have embraced and reinterpreted 1970s style. The featured designs include Helios 710, a London penthouse by Bella Freud and Maria Speake, which incorporates striking hues like glossy black sofas with burnt orange cushions and an emerald-green carpet, aiming to evoke 1970s glamour. Univers Uchronia, a Paris apartment by Julien Sebban, highlights an eclectic approach with oversized flower-shaped cushions, low-slung coffee tables, bold colors, and shiny surfaces, reflecting the Uchronia studio's signature style. Another example is the Oscar Freire apartment in São Paulo, reconfigured by Claudia Bresciani and Júlia Risi for an illustrator. This space utilizes black-and-white geometric flooring and orange-hued furniture to integrate the kitchen, lounge, and studio areas, drawing inspiration from classic 1970s interiors. In Ireland, the Lovers Walk townhouse, renovated by Kingston Lafferty Design, features blue velvet sofas and a green swirly book-matched marble wall in its living room, influenced by Verner Panton's use of playful shapes and clashing colors. The Mossel Bay home in South Africa, designed by architect Yvette van Zyl for her own residence, employs a curved and sculptural approach for its tactile 1970s-style interior. This design includes custom-framed glass louvres, paper lanterns, and orange seating, completing a modernist-informed aesthetic. Ben Garrett and Rae Morris's Zero House in the UK pays homage to its mid-century origins with a dark red and brown color palette inspired by Stanley Kubrick's films, incorporating a geometric maze-patterned rug and reeded 1970s-style glass for windows. Club Unseen, an immersive installation by Studiopepe during Milan Design Week, presented three chic living spaces that captured the essence of 1970s nightclubs through graphic shapes, grid patterns, pastels, and metallic finishes. Lastly, the Primrose Hill townhouse in London, refurbished by Studio Hagen Hall prior to Zero House's transformation, adopted a 1970s California modernism approach. Its open living area features bespoke velvet sofas on a raised conversation platform with hidden storage and custom-made elm recesses, showcasing classic 1970s materials. These projects collectively demonstrate a contemporary appreciation for the distinctive and often extravagant design elements of the 1970s, applying them to create visually rich and characterful residential interiors. #ResidentialInteriors #RetroDesign #1970sStyle #LivingRoomDesign #InteriorDecor #Lookbook #MidCenturyModern #HomeFurnishings

This article details the transformation of a 1970s project home in Fingal on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula from an understated coastal cottage into a contemporary masterpiece. The property, situated on 2.4 hectares, was initially acquired by a professional couple a decade ago despite its neglected state. They initially converted it into a simple white cottage and lived there for ten years before embarking on a more ambitious renovation and extension project. The renovation aimed to create a family home that fostered connection while accommodating entertaining needs, particularly for their adult children and friends. Interior designer Deanne Penberthy Jolly, in collaboration with architects S Group, led the twelve-month project, completed in 2019. The design strategy involved retaining the original house, reimagining it as a tranquil 'sleeping pavilion,' and adding a new U-shaped wing. This new extension features an open-plan kitchen with a butler’s pantry and mudroom, as well as airy living zones, including a sunken lounge with a fireplace. These new areas are characterized by soaring raked ceilings with exposed beams and offer views of a swimming pool, tennis court, and a winter garden equipped with a pizza oven, making the home suitable for all seasons and various entertainment scenarios. The interior design focused on creating a warm and highly textured environment with a neutral base, drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings. Deanne Penberthy Jolly layered organic materials such as timber, stone, concrete, and leather. A consistent color theme of Dulux Deep Bottlebrush was applied to kitchen cabinetry, joinery, and mudroom walls, referencing the property's olive and tea trees and imparting a sense of harmony. The designer intentionally aimed for an 'understated' decor that would not feel 'overworked,' prioritizing calmness and relaxation. Polished plaster walls, striking pendant lights, tactile wallpaper, and large-scale artworks further contribute to the home's aesthetic appeal. A key aspect of the project's success was the strong collaborative relationship between the homeowners and the design team, particularly with Deanne. The homeowners emphasized the importance of being actively involved in the design process, fostering a sense of shared excitement and breakthrough moments. This close partnership ensured the final design aligned perfectly with the couple's vision for a family-oriented, entertaining space deeply connected to its natural environment. Although the family has since moved, the transformed coastal farmhouse remains a significant project for both the homeowners and the designer. #HomeRenovation #1970sHome #MorningtonPeninsula #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

The 1970s interior design trend is currently experiencing a significant resurgence, characterized by its warm, welcoming, and liveable aesthetic. This style is defined by lush green indoor plants, a prominent use of timber, and a variety of textured surfaces, alongside handmade crafts and thoughtful workmanship. The enduring appeal of this decorating approach is rooted in its ability to create comfortable and inviting spaces that resonate with a sense of nostalgia and playful boldness. Interiors stylist and author Jessica Bellef highlights the bold and fun expression inherent in 1970s-inspired interiors. She suggests that in challenging times, this style offers a retreat into a sense of endless fun and a longing for bygone days, allowing individuals to express personal taste through a period known for empowerment and discovery. This modern interpretation of 1970s style is influenced by the minimalism of the 1990s and a broader desire for a simplified life. The core elements of 1970s design, such as furniture shapes, layouts, textures, and color palettes, are present but applied with more restraint and a heightened focus on connecting with nature. Sustainability is a key consideration in the contemporary adoption of this trend. Bellef emphasizes that purchasing vintage items is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to furnish a home, advocating for extending the lifespan of original 1970s designs and repurposing them. This approach helps combat the issue of overflowing landfills and excessive production of new furniture, marking a step towards more conscious consumption. Materials play a crucial role in achieving the 1970s aesthetic. Bricks, for instance, are making a significant comeback, with their textured, earthy colors appearing widely in both interior and exterior applications. New homeowners and those renovating are incorporating raw brick into feature walls, fireplaces, and exposed structural elements, either by retaining original 1970s-1980s features or mimicking them in new constructions. Timber is another essential material, often seen in furniture pieces or architectural details like warm wood paneling and floating timber stairs. The 1970s color palette, when reinterpreted for modern homes, moves away from the more garish elements of the past. Instead, it focuses on natural color schemes and soft furnishings that prevent the space from feeling heavy. Jessica Bellef advises balancing bold colors with natural surfaces to introduce beautiful textures and a connection to the outdoors. Earthy tones such as mustard, ochres, tans, and browns form the foundation, complemented by leaf green and soft orange. The inclusion of plenty of white in cotton, linen, and other textured fabrics adds warmth without creating visual clutter. Pops of color are effectively introduced through lamps, lighting, art, and decorative objects like glass and pottery, all contributing to carefully curated vignettes. Bellef encourages embracing color, even if it's an earthy tone, as the presence of a bold, saturated hue provides the characteristic punchiness of a 1970s-inspired interior. When it comes to furniture, rattan pieces, such as sideboards, armchairs, and seating, are integral to the 1970s style, though moderation is advised. Bellef recommends selecting one or two statement pieces that capture attention, such as low-slung, chunky seating or an elaborate pendant light crafted from a striking combination of glass, brass, and artistic lines. These carefully chosen elements contribute to a cohesive and authentically inspired 1970s interior that feels both modern and timeless. #InteriorDesign #1970sStyle #HomeDecor #RetroRevival #SustainableLiving #EarthyTones #Timber #RattanFurniture #DecoratingTrends

Brynn Jones, owner of Aralda Vintage, and her husband, Ness Saban, an indie film distributor, transformed their 1963 Robert Lee-designed home in Los Angeles. Jones, who has a lifelong affinity for 1960s and 1970s aesthetics, recognized the potential in the three-bedroom house despite some outdated decor. While Saban initially needed more convincing, Jones envisioned the possibilities, leading them to enlist Frances Merrill of Reath Design to revitalize the property. The home’s original dark wood paneling and brickwork, which date back to 1963, were considered essential elements to retain for their warmth and coziness. However, the kitchen and bathrooms, which had undergone poor remodels in the 1990s, required complete renovation. Jones's design vision was heavily influenced by her love for vintage fashion, drawing inspiration from the homes of style icons like Gloria Vanderbilt, Diana Vreeland, and Diane von Furstenberg, as well as '60s and '70s design magazines. Merrill embraced this approach, encouraging unusual color combinations and bold patterns. The initial phase of the renovation involved a simple yet impactful change: repainting the common areas, original built-ins, and doors from an institutional gray to a rich emerald green. This color choice effectively unified the existing paneling and brickwork. In the kitchen, a glossy chartreuse tiled backsplash was introduced, creating a vibrant contrast that surprisingly complemented the walnut and cream cabinets and dark wood. The primary bathroom became a canvas for more experimental color, featuring a checkerboard pattern of light purple, burgundy, and scarlet tiles, a peachy marble countertop with rose veins, and purple marble lining the shower. Jones acknowledged the intensity of this design, humorously noting a friend's comparison to a Stanley Kubrick film. Beyond color, patterns played a significant role in the home's transformation. The office features a botanical Hermès wallpaper, providing a psychedelic backdrop for a custom desk and wall unit. The main bedroom embraces a moodier ambiance due to a lack of natural light. Jones selected a kaleidoscopic House of Hackney design for the window drapes, bedding, and wallpaper, extending it to the ceiling. Despite the abundance of prints, Jones found the olive green and dark teal color palette to be calming, while Saban humorously described the room as being inside a wrapped, inverted present. The final phase of the renovation focused on the nursery for their son, Odin. Jones aimed to create a stimulating and charming space that avoided a stereotypical kid's room feel. This was achieved with a daybed reupholstered in dinosaur fabric, baby bedding made from mismatched Liberty London textiles, a dusty-blue sky mural by Londubh Studios painted across cabinetry and the ceiling, and a plush custom carpet designed to resemble a coral reef, laid over a purple linoleum floor. The nursery also features a custom clothing and storage nook, a former closet converted into built-in cabinetry, painted in dusty blue and pale lavender to provide a soothing atmosphere. This playful and imaginative design philosophy, first established in the nursery, extends throughout the entire home. #HomeTour #VintageInspired #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHome #RetroDesign #BoldColors #PatternMixing #RenovationProject #ReathDesign

The article details the design philosophy and interior of "The Ochre Home," the residence of artist and freelance stylist Geraldine Toh and her husband, Vincent Lim. The name "Ochre Home" was chosen by Ms. Toh to reflect the predominant color palette and earthy sensibility of their space, which primarily features shades of brown, yellow, and orange, reminiscent of the natural clay pigment. As an artist, Ms. Toh often uses ochre in her paintings, further solidifying its significance to her home's aesthetic. The home's style is described as mid-century modern inspired with an eclectic mix. Ms. Toh, who studied fine arts, showcases a keen eye for color, proportion, and design. The couple selected a 30-year-old apartment for its spaciousness, airiness, and square layout, which simplified space planning. Key layout modifications included removing a kitchen wall to create an open entrance, repositioning the common bathroom door for discretion, and moving the master bedroom door to facilitate an open-concept walk-in wardrobe. The initial impression upon entering the apartment is one of expansive open space. A central tenet of Ms. Toh's design approach is the belief that furnishing a home should be a gradual process, allowing for the collection of unique pieces with personal stories. She views her home as "forever a work in progress," emphasizing modularity and movability to allow for frequent rearrangements and to maintain visual interest. She favors eclecticism over perfectly matched sets, choosing standalone pieces that complement the overall color scheme and texture, ensuring that new additions enhance rather than disrupt the aesthetic. This approach creates pockets and corners with distinct functionalities within the larger open space. Throughout The Ochre Home, visual interest is evident in various details. Ms. Toh painted a mural of a flower on one wall, and customisable fabric outer jackets on the Toshiba Haori air-conditioning units blend seamlessly with the interiors. The couple dedicated time to assembling their furniture, often thrifting pieces or carefully selecting others for their historical significance and narrative. For instance, their Commune leather sofa was acquired from an expatriate family, and their stackable dining chairs are vintage 1980s Casala Obo Formsitz pieces sourced from AA Furniture, specializing in vintage Japanese furniture. The study area, carved out from the main living space without walls, features a 1960s Danish kidney-bean-shaped desk from local store Noden. Lighting fixtures also hold historical value, such as a vintage 1970s Louis Poulsen Panthella lamp from Aria Design Store, which exhibits a beautiful patina. Other notable pieces include a 1960s Danish coffee table, a thrifted Marcel Breuer cantilever chair, and a Flos Arco floor lamp. A 1970s pinecone wall lamp from a Danish vintage store in Vancouver was hand-carried home by Ms. Toh. Mid-century design signatures are prominent, with an Eames lounge chair, Hans J. Wegner’s CH24 Wishbone Chair, and a special-edition Safari chair by Kaare Klint. Personal touches include a pinewood side table and a kapur wood bench, both crafted by Mr. Lim. Beyond aesthetics, the home was conceived as a creative hub for the couple's artistic and hobby pursuits. A dedicated creative room stores art-making equipment, and plain white walls serve as a canvas for photographic prints, abstract paintings, and Ms. Toh’s first mural. The article concludes by noting that the couple's personal touches and years of inhabiting the space have successfully actualized their vision for The Ochre Home, creating a lived-in and deeply personal atmosphere. #EclecticHomeDesign #MidCenturyModern #OchreHome #ArtistHome #VintageFurniture #CreativeSpace #HomeStyling #SingaporeDesign #PersonalizedInteriors

This article offers a glimpse into the Melbourne home of photographer and author Robyn Lea, showcasing her unique approach to interior design. The residence is a two-storey Victorian home with five bedrooms located in Melbourne's inner-eastern suburbs, where Robyn resides with her husband Tim Hunt, their two children, Isabella and Freddie, and their Beagalier puppy, Magnolia. The family undertook an extensive renovation of the home approximately 12 years prior to the publication of this article, subsequently enlisting Penelope Scott Interiors for window furnishings. Robyn Lea's office is highlighted as her favorite room, described as an evolving space filled with inspiring books, artworks, and various objects. This includes Italian-made plates by La DoubleJ, artworks by Charles Pollock, Nathalie Lété, and John Benn, and four distinct wallpapers, reflecting a constantly changing installation. The sitting room features a mural by Russian artist Ekaterina Panikanova, complemented by chairs from Early Settler and a table from Family Love Tree. The home's collection also includes numerous paintings by artist John Benn, a family friend. The neighborhood where the home is situated is characterized as small, with local cafes, shops, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Robyn expresses her ongoing intention to continuously evolve the interior homescape, viewing it as a natural extension of her visual storytelling through photography and writing about artists. Her advice for decorating is to personalize the space, stating, "Decorate to please yourself – it’s your nest, after all. If you love it, it will love you right back." A significant detail mentioned is Robyn's initial attraction to the home, which was influenced by a majestic magnolia tree in the back garden, reminding her of 'The Magic Faraway Tree.' #EclecticHome #InteriorDesign #MelbourneHomes #PhotographersHome #VictorianArchitecture #ArtisticInteriors #HomeRenovation #PersonalizedDecor

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

In Seattle's historic Wedgwood neighborhood, a 1970s home has undergone a significant transformation, blending its original architectural character with modern functionality to suit a young family's lifestyle. The project, named The Wedge(wood), was a collaborative effort between Best Practice Architecture and Ainslie-Davis, a contracting firm with a personal connection to the property, as the home was originally built by a family member. The renovation focused on creating open, adaptable spaces while retaining nostalgic elements. The kitchen, previously enclosed and outdated, was a primary focus of the redesign. It was opened up to seamlessly connect with the dining area, enhancing the flow of the main living spaces. A new wooden bench was integrated, serving as a transitional element between the kitchen and dining zones. A notable feature is the lowered leaf on the kitchen island, specifically designed to encourage children's participation in meal preparation, fostering a more inclusive and interactive family environment. Respect for the home's heritage was a guiding principle. Key original features, such as the sunken living room and its vintage wood-burning stove, were preserved and integrated into the new design. To improve the connection between the living room and the adjacent kitchen and dining areas, existing partial-height walls were replaced with custom wood shelving. This solution maintained an open feel and unobstructed views to the outdoors, while still subtly defining distinct areas within the open-plan layout. A significant structural modification involved converting a formerly covered porch into a functional mudroom. Given Seattle's climate, this addition proved highly practical, providing a cheerful and organized space for managing wet weather gear. The mudroom features patterned tiles and ample storage, adding valuable square footage and enhancing the home's overall utility. Upstairs, the renovation continued with the addition of a full bathroom, addressing the family's growing needs. An underutilized great room was reconfigured to create both a new bedroom and a playroom, catering to the younger members of the household. The primary suite also received a comprehensive update. The design maximized natural light by preserving existing clerestory windows and created an airy, spa-like atmosphere in the newly designed bathroom. The removal of the upper portion of a dividing wall in the primary suite established a visual connection to the surrounding trees and sky, contributing to a tranquil and expansive ambiance within the private quarters. The overall renovation successfully balances preserving the home's historical essence with contemporary design and functionality. #HomeRenovation #Architecture #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #SeattleHomes #FamilyHome #SustainableDesign #MidCenturyModern #KitchenDesign

The "Inside Her Home" series offers a glimpse into the residences of everyday women, detailing their renting or homeownership experiences. This installment features Lauren Li, a 45-year-old interior designer residing in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne. She lives with her husband and three children in a three-bedroom, two-storey home with an additional granny flat, which they rent for $3,910 per month. Lauren describes her home as a mid-century modern dwelling, built in 1961, retaining much of its original architecture. She emphasizes a deep connection to the house, feeling it "chose her" and that she and her family are deeply content living there. Lauren’s home is situated approximately 10km north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. She highlights the fair price for the rental and expresses a strong belief that renters invest significant care and effort into making their houses feel like home. She and her family have occupied the property for three years, and her appreciation for the space has only grown. The house holds historical significance, having been the former residence of Victoria's first female Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Rosemary Balmford, who lived there since 1963. Lauren attributes the home's positive atmosphere and abundant built-in bookshelves to its previous owner, noting Balmford’s pioneering role as the first female lecturer in the University of Melbourne’s law faculty. The layout of the home is particularly appealing to Lauren, featuring a spacious living room with a fireplace, which provides ample room for the family while maintaining a sense of togetherness. The property also offers lovely views of trees, a beneficial feature for Lauren and her husband, who both work from home. The kitchen retains its original 1960s charm, which Lauren appreciates. The house includes an elevated deck that has been the setting for numerous family gatherings and summer dinners, contributing to its cherished feel. Their 12-year-old daughter enjoys a room with an impressive view of the Yarra River, while her 11-year-old sister and three-year-old brother share the other bedroom. Lauren explains that their move to this particular house was almost serendipitous. When their previous apartment was put up for sale, they needed to find new accommodation swiftly. A friend connected them with a real estate agent, and upon seeing the Ivanhoe East property, Lauren immediately felt a strong desire to live there. Her attachment to the house is so profound that she declares she is "never going to leave," underscoring her long-term commitment to the home. The article concludes with an invitation for other individuals to submit their homes for inclusion in the "Inside Her Home" series, encouraging [email protected] to be contacted for submissions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #RentalProperty #MelbourneHomes #FamilyLiving #RealLifeStories #HomeTour

A 1970s-style Dallas ranch house underwent a significant transformation, moving away from its original closed-in and sprawling floorplan to embrace an open, light-filled modernist aesthetic with South American influences. The homeowners, with a background in Mexico and Brazil, sought to infuse their new US residence with the warmth and richness reminiscent of their time in South America, creating a vibrant backdrop for their art collection and modernist furniture. Interior designer Joshua Rice led the renovation, focusing on opening up the space, enhancing natural light, and establishing a cohesive flow throughout the home. The original house posed challenges due to its convoluted layout, characterized by a series of disconnected rooms. Joshua Rice addressed this by strategically removing walls, thereby creating a 150-foot visual connection spanning nearly the entire length of the house. This design choice not only improved navigability but also brought a sense of unity to the interior. The entryway now feels spacious and offers a clear view into the kitchen, fostering a connection with other areas of the home. Artworks by Pago Mann and Mr Brainwash, displayed on neutral walls, introduce color and a playful element. One notable design solution involved replacing a hazardous, zig-zagging three-step transition between two living rooms with a simple yet elegant stone half-height wall. This Pietra Grey stone box, with its precise detailing—waterfall edges and articulated reveals—effectively separates the upper and lower levels while maintaining a spatial connection. This intervention significantly improved both the safety and aesthetic appeal of the space, moving beyond the original architectural limitations. The renovation heavily emphasized the use of natural materials and a neutral color palette. In the eat-in kitchen, Faye Toogood's Roly Poly round table and dining chairs introduce a softening element to the otherwise defined lines of the main kitchen. The kitchen itself features cabinetry crafted from teak with bronze accent panels by Forms & Surfaces, paired with concrete engineered quartz countertops by Santamargherita. These elements collectively contribute warmth and a touch of midcentury modern style. White oak flooring extends throughout the main rooms, offering a durable and visually cohesive surface, while a custom vent hood combining teak and blackened steel adds a modernist touch. The living rooms showcase a curated selection of vintage South American midcentury modern pieces. The main living area features iconic Presidential armchairs and a vintage Oushak rug, complemented by a cast bronze table by Jojo Corväiá. The dining room is anchored by a 1959 Guanabara rosewood table by Jorge Zalszupin and illuminated by an RBW Palindrome light, with Fiona Weedon's "Tears and Flowers 1993" oil on canvas adorning Venetian plaster walls. The upper living room, centered around the Pietra grey stone fireplace, includes a Sideways sofa, vintage Alta lounge chair, and two 'Diz' chairs, alongside additional cast bronze and ceramic tables and a rare Brazilian sculpture. The home office incorporates Aim lamps by Flos, vintage swivel and lounge chairs, and a desk from Poltrona Frau, while the main bedroom offers a window alcove with seating and a blackened steel fireplace. The project successfully blends modernist principles with rich, textural materials, creating a luxurious and welcoming environment. The architect, Mark McCollum, noted that despite the original convoluted floorplan, the careful crafting of connections resulted in a grand and gracious home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernistHome #DallasArchitecture #MidCenturyModern #SouthAmericanInfluence #VintageFurniture #OpenConceptLiving #NaturalMaterials

The article details the transformation of a 1990s-built, 'flip-remodel' home, initially characterized by its bland, all-white aesthetic, into a vibrant and personality-filled residence. Atelier Interior Design, led by founder Katie Schroder, undertook this renovation project for a recently retired couple seeking a dream home larger and more stylish than their previous one, designed for relaxation and entertaining. The existing relationship with the clients fostered trust, allowing for bolder design choices, including dynamic patterns and color combinations. The inspiration for the home's new aesthetic came from an Instagram image the client admired, featuring an airy living room with a soft, natural palette of cream, sage green, and warm copper tones. This palette became the guiding color story, enhancing the home's inherent energy and contributing to a calm, grounded atmosphere that felt organic and intentional. The architectural foundation of the home is transitional with a California modern influence, but the overall design leans towards a refreshed English country house aesthetic, combining traditional and contemporary furnishings, thoughtful finishes, and statement lighting to create an elevated sense of coziness. A central feature of the home is a beautifully landscaped courtyard, around which the layout is centered. Lush greenery, mature trees, and a tranquil fountain contribute to a private retreat feel, complementing the clean, contemporary lines of the architecture. The kitchen, though previously remodeled, received thoughtful upgrades including a floral stone mosaic backsplash, a custom-painted hood, and a dramatic 60-inch chandelier above its dual islands. The dual island layout, a new experience for the designers, proved highly functional for entertaining, allowing for meal preparation while remaining connected to guests. The primary bedroom was a favorite space to design, inspired by a Schumacher mural featuring a forest print. This mural, chosen by the client, created a seamless visual connection with the central courtyard outside the windows. To ensure the mural remained the focal point, fabrics and materials were kept soft, neutral, and within the mural's color palette. Every piece in the room was custom-designed to harmonize with the mural, resulting in a serene, personal, and balanced space. Guest rooms also embraced Schumacher wallpaper, with beautiful floral patterns adorning both walls and slanted ceilings, creating an immersive, 'swimming' sensation. The bedding from Brass Bed added thoughtful layering of colors, patterns, and textures, contributing to a cozy and collected feel. Key design partners included Schumacher for wallpapers and fabrics, Old Biscayne for custom furniture (notably TV cabinets in the living room and primary bedroom), and Visual Comfort for most lighting selections, balancing classic and contemporary styles. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #PatternMixing #KitchenDesign #BedroomDecor #EnglishCountryStyle #CaliforniaModern #CustomFurniture #WallpaperTrends

This blog post explores the interior design transformation of a classic 1950s storybook ranch home located in a historic neighborhood on the shores of Lake St. Clair, Michigan. The home underwent a significant remodel and interior design update, moving away from its previous formal and traditional aesthetic. The homeowner, an art enthusiast, collaborated with interior designer Krista Nye Nicholas of Cloth & Kind to infuse the residence with color, style, and a soulful blend of modern and antique furnishings. The project focused purely on decorative updates, leveraging the beautiful bones of the house and its quality materials. The design process began with the foyer, where Krista's entryway concepts incorporated an existing antique console. She enhanced this space with a bespoke hand-painted lampshade by Ross Alexander Designs, original photography by Nancy Wolfe, and a Bram Mirror from vanCollier featuring a faux crocodile upholstered finish, creating an inviting and unpredictable first impression. The large combined living room and dining room serve as the heart of the home, designed to accommodate the owner's love for entertaining. The inspiration for the overall design stemmed from the owner's passion for travel and diverse art, spanning contemporary to traditional styles. The dining room reflects these influences, showcasing a readiness to embrace color. The client's enthusiasm for the creative vision allowed for a bold and personalized approach throughout the home. In the adjoining living room, the color narrative was established by a large original mixed media piece titled "The Trees of Secrets," sourced from Gregg Irby Gallery. Abstract sculptural forms placed in built-in niches added an unexpected artistic element to the traditional architecture. The living room features multiple seating areas, including a 1930s Czech Halabala lounge chair, a clean-lined Lawson Fenning daybed, and an antique Persian Bakshaish rug, which collectively create a transitional yet cohesive aesthetic. The kitchen, recently refurbished by previous owners, received characterful furnishings and displays to align with the new owner's taste. A striking oriental rug connects the kitchen to the home's eclectic, travel-inspired theme, while upholstered bar stools soften the graphic appearance of the kitchen island and black countertops. The family room offers additional inviting seating spaces with strong blue walls, complemented by a pair of rattan chairs reupholstered in Seema Krish's Chowpatty fabric. Muriel Brandolini Silk Matka fabric dresses the bay window, and a vintage Maharaja Kashmir Willow Tree hand-knotted oriental rug converses with contemporary Stahl + Band L Series nesting coffee tables, showcasing a thoughtful blend of old and new. The library embraces shades of green, with Sydney Harbour Paint Company’s Olive Grove on the walls and Bayleaf on the ceiling and trim, interacting with Rose Uniacke’s Textured Wool in Bayleaf on an occasional chair. An early-20th century Sarouk Farahan Persian rug introduces complementary tones of terracotta, gold, and indigo. A hand-sewn leather drum ceiling fixture from Lostine serves as a central art piece, contributing to the room's soothing effect. Two charming outdoor spaces, a screened front porch and a back patio, are utilized for entertaining during warmer months, facilitating an effortless flow between indoor and outdoor living. The powder room received a fuss-free facelift, incorporating elegant Kyoto floral print wallpaper from Studio Four NYC and a new wall light, while retaining existing good-condition fittings. Finally, the main bedroom adopts a calm and uplifting palette of blue and cream, offering a fresh and relaxing sanctuary. The entire project exemplifies a successful transformation of a traditional ranch home into a vibrant, art-filled, and personality-driven space through a thoughtful mix of color, art, and iconic furnishings. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #MidCenturyModern #ColorfulInteriors #ArtisticHome #EclecticDecor #RanchHouse #MichiganHome #KristaNyeNicholas

A retired couple moving to Crown Point from Washington sought to transform their new, cool-toned residence into a warm, eclectic, and family-friendly home, particularly to accommodate their children and growing number of grandchildren. They enlisted the full-service design firm Kristyn Harvey Interiors for this project, which commenced in July 2024 and concluded six months later. The design aimed to reflect the couple’s love for travel by incorporating global treasures while prioritizing warmth and practicality. The inspiration for the home’s redesign stemmed from its coastal location, being close to Mission Bay, and the clients' active lifestyle, including participation in outrigger canoe competitions. This led to a design aesthetic that incorporated warm, coastal tones infused with an eclectic humor, mirroring their well-traveled background. A prime example of this eclectic approach is a bronze bunny statue, an existing possession of the couple, which was deliberately placed in a bathroom to add a sense of mystery and playful storytelling, aligning with the designer’s philosophy of creating fun and laughter-inducing moments within a home. Kristyn Harvey Interiors focused on contrasting the existing cool elements of the house, such as the fireplace tile, flooring, and kitchen, with warm-toned materials to achieve a more vintage-inspired and less modern ambiance. In the living room, the large, cold fireplace was deemphasized through the addition of vertical paneling in the adjacent nooks. White oak floating shelves and a desk were installed, designed for both aesthetic brightness and functional eclecticism, reflecting the clients’ needs. A vintage coffee table from the 1970s, which had a minor repair, became a central piece, embodying the vintage-inspired goal. Consideration for the clients' new role as grandparents was a key aspect of the furniture selection. All living room furniture, including the sofa, swivel chairs, and ottomans by Rowe Furniture, were chosen for their performance fabric and rounded corners, ensuring safety and durability for grandchildren. The ottomans were designed with additional storage and reversible tray tops, enhancing their utility for family gatherings and board game nights. The dining room was conceived as an extension of the living room, featuring swivel head chairs that allow for interaction between both spaces. A dark-finished custom dining table by RBMZ Studio provided a striking contrast to the warm, coastal interior palette. The culmination of the design project aimed to create a home that not only showcased the couple's cherished memories but also provided a welcoming space for future family moments. A notable finishing touch was a 100-year-old Turkish olive tree trunk, cleaned and sealed with a marine-grade UV protectant, and hung above the entryway, symbolizing the home's longevity and its role as the clients' retirement and forever residence. The design elements and material choices, including paint by Benjamin Moore, artwork by Sophia Lind and Uttermost, and furniture from brands like Four Hands and Lulu and Georgia, contributed to the overall warm, eclectic, and family-centric transformation. #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #CoastalDecor #EclecticStyle #FamilyHome #KristynHarveyInteriors #CrownPoint #SanDiegoDesign #VintageFurniture

The article details the renovation journey of Catalina Monsalve and Kelly Kai, who transformed a 1970s tract house in Morongo Valley, California, into a distinctive desert home. Catalina, a creative director, decided to leave New York after 17 years feeling stagnant and, upon visiting Kelly in California, felt a strong connection to a specific house. Kelly Kai, an interior designer, had a history of transforming run-down properties in the desert areas around Palm Springs and Joshua Tree into charming Airbnbs, drawn to the region's grounding and healing qualities. She convinced Catalina to recognize the potential in a 1970s tract house they encountered in 2022. The house, described as a "cookie cutter house" with a "total lack of character" by Kelly, was within budget and off-market, making it an opportune first home purchase for Catalina. The couple was particularly drawn to the home's location on a corner lot in a quiet area of Morongo Valley, benefiting from its proximity to the surrounding mountains. The renovation focused on imbuing the initially blank canvas with unique personality and charm, transforming it from a standard 1970s structure into a quirky desert dream. Key elements of the transformed interior include a vintage cactus sculpture sourced from Jonathan Pessin, a hand-painted rice paper lantern pendant from WonderValley, and a handcrafted solid cherry wood coffee table, vintage from Vintage on Point in Los Angeles. These selections reflect a curated approach to design, blending vintage finds with artistic pieces to create a unique aesthetic. This project represents not just a home renovation but a significant life change for Catalina, moving from urban life to a more grounded existence in the desert. Kelly's expertise in desert renovations and her vision for creating healing spaces were instrumental in guiding the transformation. The article highlights the before-and-after contrast, showcasing how a seemingly uninspired 1970s build was reimagined into a personalized and character-filled residence. The process involved identifying an affordable, off-market property and systematically redesigning its interior and exterior to reflect the couple's style and the serene desert environment. The narrative emphasizes the collaborative effort between the couple and the thoughtful selection of decor that contributes to the home's unique identity. #HomeRenovation #DesertHome #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #1970sTractHouse #MorongoValley #JoshuaTree #VintageDecor #CreativeTransformation

Jennifer Liffman's journey into interior design began in 2012 during a vacation in Florida, where an encounter with Coastal Living’s Ultimate Beach House ignited a long-dormant passion. Despite this initial spark, her formal pursuit of design education did not commence until early 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, while at home with her family, Jennifer enrolled in a distance-learning program at the New York Institute of Art and Design, delving into various aspects of interior design from hand drafting to space planning. This educational experience culminated in the launch of her own design firm in 2022, and she subsequently joined the interiors team at Craft Realty/Interiors/Homes. Simultaneously with her professional development, Jennifer applied her burgeoning design expertise to her family's late-1960s ranch-style home in Jefferson Terrace. The Liffmans had moved into the home in August 2016 and initiated a series of renovations to align the space with their family's lifestyle. Exterior modifications included painting the brick for a more contemporary aesthetic, while interior changes involved replacing carpeting and tile with wood flooring and expanding the opening between the foyer and living room. These foundational updates paved the way for personalization, with each space being brightened and infused with unique touches. The renovation project was a collaborative family endeavor. Jennifer’s father, John Hawkins, contributed significantly by constructing custom shelves and cabinets for the living room, laundry room, and primary suite bathroom. Her husband, Eric, applied Venetian plaster finishes to select walls, adding textural depth. The home also became a showcase for art, prominently featuring works by Eric’s mother, artist Christy Diniz-Liffman, as well as pieces from other professional artists within their extended family, reflecting the couple's shared appreciation for art. A central theme in Jennifer's decorating philosophy is the integration of meaningful artworks, antique furnishings, and heirloom pieces that carry sentimental value. Examples include an antique iron bed and desk in her daughter Emma’s room, which previously belonged to Eric’s sister, and recovered wingback chairs from her grandmother that now grace the living room. Her coffee table exemplifies this blend of old and new, featuring an antique wood base paired with a new limestone top. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of creating thoughtful, collected spaces that blend time-honored items with contemporary elements, as seen with a hutch in her dining room, a piece inherited from her grandmother that she uses daily. The transformation of her home remains an ongoing process, with Jennifer continuously applying her evolving design skills to spaces like the master bedroom. Beyond her personal residence, she and the Craft Interiors team are actively involved in designing custom finishes for luxury home builds and are preparing for a significant 5,000-square-foot remodel. Jennifer acknowledges that her personal style is still developing and embraces the eclectic nature of her home, which accommodates her growing children, pets, and the continuous evolution of her design aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #FamilyProject #EclecticStyle #AntiqueFurniture #HeirloomPieces #HomeDecor #DesignCareer

Jeff and Paola Roder acquired their 1979 mid-century modern residence in Johns Creek in 2019, following extensive updates and renovations by the previous owner, Jason Maynard of JM Construction Consulting Inc. The couple was particularly drawn to the home's distinctive design elements, which include irregularly shaped built-in shelves in the family room, a reading nook with USB charging ports, and gallery lighting designed to highlight artwork. Paola Roder, a designer and interior stylist, expressed appreciation for Maynard's thoughtful design in every space. The home spans 2,800 square feet, featuring four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. The architectural style is characterized by mid-century modern influences, with an emphasis on large, open living spaces and abundant natural light facilitated by numerous windows. Paola's design philosophy centers on contrasting white and black tones with vibrant primary colors and pop art-inspired patterns, aiming to create a cohesive yet bright and artistic interior. The Roders have infused their home with a personal touch through various art pieces. Paola's personal collection includes a painting by Pop Art Hoppe, pieces by Andy Warhol, and art from Great Big Canvas. The master bedroom, while more subdued in its color palette, is adorned with portraits of Frida Kahlo by Heather Felder, a Mexican and Norwegian artist, and a vivid piece from Great Big Canvas above the bed, complemented by a Turkish rug from Ikea. The dining room features a gallery wall showcasing music memorabilia, combining records discovered in their previous Philadelphia home with art from the U.S. Postal Service’s Music Icons series. Paola further enhanced this space by painting a wall in bold stripes to align with the home's modern pop art aesthetic. Key design elements within the home include brightly painted built-in shelves, striped walls, and patterned prints. Paola sourced furniture from retailers such as Ikea, Target, and HomeGoods, and lighting fixtures from Varaluz. Other notable sources for art and decor include Natalija Nogulich, Nick Pad, Juan Melian, Liz Loncar, The Modern Museum, Ana Art, and Flora Furniture. The entry features a large pink alligator painting titled “Gay Gator” by local artist Liz Haywood, with Paola painting the entryway in primary colors and black and white patterns to integrate with the pop art theme. The mudroom, designed by the previous owner, offers ample storage, which Paola has accentuated with bold colors and black and white stripes. Residents Jeff and Paola Roder share their home with their three dogs: Kali, Lakshimi, and Tiger. Jeff works as a credit manager at AGCO Finance, while Paola is a designer and interior stylist. The overall design of the home reflects a blend of mid-century modern architecture with a lively pop art sensibility, creating a unique and vibrant living environment. #MidCenturyModern #PopArtStyle #HomeDesign #InteriorStyling #ArtisticHome #VibrantDecor #JohnsCreekHome #DesignerPaolaRoder