This Greenwich Village Co-op, With Exposed Brick and Fireplaces, Is Like a Mini Chateau

This blog post highlights a Greenwich Village co-op located at 2 East 12th Street, which is on the market for $2.5 million. The property is presented as a year-round oasis, combining cozy interiors with an elaborate outdoor space. The interior of the co-op features two working fireplaces, providing warmth during colder months. The apartment occupies the entire ground floor of the building and includes two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms. The main living area consists of an open-plan kitchen and living room. The corner living room is equipped with a gas-burning, copper-clad fireplace and extensive floor-to-ceiling built-ins, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical storage. The kitchen is designed with modern sensibilities, featuring stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a distinctive curving four-seat breakfast bar. Throughout the apartment, residents will find Lutron lighting, oak hardwood flooring, and recessed lighting, contributing to a contemporary and well-illuminated living environment. The exterior of the co-op is a significant feature, designed as a multi-level retreat. The backyard includes a two-tiered layout, a side patio, and a sunken Japanese-style cedar hot tub, serving as a focal point for relaxation. The lower level of the backyard is transformed into a garden with a stone pathway and various plants, while the upper deck is constructed from Ipe wood and features a built-in banquette, ideal for outdoor entertaining. This area also boasts numerous planters, a cedar potting shed for gardening enthusiasts, accent lighting, and an irrigation system to maintain the greenery. Access to the backyard from the living room is facilitated by two sets of doors. A separate set of stairs from the deck leads to the side patio, which is adorned with three window boxes positioned outside the living room. This patio area also accommodates the cedar storage/potting shed and a grill, further enhancing the outdoor living experience. French doors from this patio open into a charming dining nook that is conveniently located adjacent to the kitchen. The apartment's layout positions the two bedrooms at the opposite end from the main living area. One bedroom, which can also serve as a family room, features a wood-burning fireplace, a walk-in closet, and an en-suite bathroom with a linen closet. The second bedroom offers a street-facing bay window, a small closet, and an en-suite bathroom. For guests and convenience, a powder room and coat closet are situated near the front door. The building itself is a five-story structure with 10 residences, situated in the Greenwich Village neighborhood, equidistant from Washington Square and Union Square. #GreenwichVillage #CoopApartment #LuxuryRealEstate #OutdoorSpace #HotTub #ZenGarden #NYCRealEstate #HomeDesign

A meticulously restored 19th-century co-op situated on a highly sought-after street in the East 70s has recently entered the real estate market with an asking price of $3.95 million. This apartment, located at 5 East 75th Street, is characterized by its original architectural details and impressive views, which are highlights despite the presence of bold wallpaper choices and numerous mirrors. The building, a historic limestone mansion, offers direct elevator access to the unit. Upon entering the co-op, residents are greeted by a mirrored foyer adorned with checkered marble floors and intricate dental oak molding. Adjacent to the foyer, a high-end kitchen features cabinetry that contributes to a serene, almost 'religious' ambiance. On the opposite side of the foyer, a spacious great room captivates with carved wood-paneled walls and towering twelve-foot ceilings featuring authentic carved beams. The exquisite millwork is a continuous design element throughout this room, extending to a functioning wood-burning fireplace and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that includes bookshelves accessible by a library ladder. The private living quarters, located on the upper level, comprise a master suite that also includes a wood-burning fireplace. An adjoining second bedroom offers two generously sized built-out cedar closets. Both bedrooms provide picturesque "Parisian" views, looking out over the copper rooftops and mature trees of the elegant block. The property at 5 East 75th Street is ideally positioned within a historical limestone mansion, just steps away from Fifth Avenue. Its location offers convenient access to Central Park, with the Metropolitan Museum of Art located merely blocks away. This co-op represents a blend of historical charm and luxurious living in a prime Manhattan location. The emphasis on restored original details, such as the millwork and carved ceilings, preserves the character of the 19th-century building while providing modern amenities. The direct elevator access, high-quality kitchen, and the presence of two fireplaces enhance the comfort and sophistication of the residence. The apartment's views and proximity to iconic New York City landmarks further contribute to its appeal, offering a unique living experience in one of the city's most prestigious neighborhoods. The property is listed by Frances Katzen of Douglas Elliman, with additional details available through CityRealty. #CoOp #LuxuryRealEstate #HistoricHome #UpperEastSide #ManhattanRealEstate #ArchitecturalDetail #Millwork #NYCProperty #DouglasElliman

This blog post highlights a third-floor co-op located at 291 Garfield Place in the Park Slope Historic District, which is currently on the market for $1.145 million. The unit is situated within a neo-Classical townhouse built in 1899 by William Flanagan. The building is part of a series of five townhouses featuring alternating brownstone and limestone facades, showcasing an eclectic mix of architectural details. The co-op unit boasts distinctive architectural features that contribute to its appeal. These include plaster garlands in the parlor, original interior wood shutters, restored window trim, and French doors in the bedroom. A notable element is a stained glass window found in the bathroom, adding a unique aesthetic touch. The interior design incorporates dark stained woodwork and oak parquet floors throughout, providing a classic and sophisticated feel. Functionally, the apartment is well-equipped with dedicated spaces. An office nook, featuring built-in bookshelves, is strategically placed within the front living room alcove, making efficient use of the space. Additionally, a well-appointed library serves a dual purpose, acting as both a reading area and a passage connecting the bedroom to the kitchen and subsequently to the bathroom. This thoughtful layout enhances the flow and utility of the apartment. The kitchen is designed with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. It features white cabinetry and modern appliances, including a steel dishwasher, which offer a contrast to the darker wood finishes found in other parts of the apartment. While currently advertised as a large two-bedroom, the listing notes that it is essentially a one-bedroom unit, with a suggestion that the living room could be divided to create an additional bedroom, a conversion seen in other units within the building. Exterior details of the building at 291 Garfield Place are also emphasized. The entrance is marked by a grand arched portico adorned with fluted Corinthian columns. The facade further exhibits a row of egg and dart molding topping the first-story lintels, followed by foliate friezes, more Corinthian columns around the window bays, and a cornice embellished with square brackets and acanthus leaves. These details reflect the neo-Classical style and the craftsmanship of the period. The property has a monthly maintenance fee of $1,080. An open house was scheduled for Sunday, January 6, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The listing agent is Eve Scott of Corcoran. The historical context of the building is briefly mentioned, noting that an owner in 1902 appeared eager to sell the property, possibly indicating a speculative purchase from that era. The article does not speculate on whether the asking price of $1.145 million is likely to be met but provides essential information for potential buyers. #ParkSlope #CoopApartment #HistoricDistrict #RealEstate #BrooklynHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #LimestoneFacade

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

CRU! architects, a Sao Paulo-based architecture firm, completed the Guesthouse Paraty, an eco-conscious social building project that aimed to minimize environmental impact and provide employment and training opportunities for the local community. The guesthouse, situated in Brazil's tropical climate, was constructed using natural and locally sourced materials, including red earth excavated from the site, and tree trunks and bamboo from the surrounding forest. This approach not only reduced the building's carbon footprint but also fostered local economic development. The design of Guesthouse Paraty incorporates passive solar principles to ensure natural cooling, an essential feature given its location. The building, measuring nearly 37 square meters, is designed for flexible use, functioning as short-term lodging, a workspace, or a children's play area. Its compact layout includes a double bed, a lofted single bed, and a convertible futon in the living area, providing three sleeping accommodations. The open-plan living space is integrated with a small cooking area and a dining table. To prevent the guesthouse from feeling confined, the architects incorporated expansive glass walls that allow abundant natural light and offer views of the surrounding landscape. A glazed entrance further enhances this connection to the outdoors, opening onto a sheltered outdoor living space. The project's commitment to sustainability is evident in its material selection and construction methods. The walls are made from rammed earth, and the roof is a green roof, topped with locally sourced black earth and plant matter. The formwork used for the rammed earth walls was repurposed for the roof structure, exemplifying a circular economy approach. Bamboo columns support the roof, and a massive granite rock, existing on the site, was integrated into the bedroom wall, further grounding the building within its natural context. Key design features for climate control include overhanging roof eaves and the green roof, both of which work to mitigate unwanted solar heat gain. All windows are operable and strategically placed to facilitate cross-ventilation, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air and natural cooling. Insect screens are installed on all windows to provide protection from mosquitoes, enhancing comfort without relying on artificial methods. The Guesthouse Paraty project showcases a holistic approach to sustainable architecture, combining local materials, traditional building techniques, and modern design principles to create a functional, environmentally responsible, and community-benefiting structure. #EcoFriendlyArchitecture #GreenRoof #RammedEarth #SustainableDesign #LocalMaterials #PassiveSolar #CommunityProject #BrazilianArchitecture #CRUArchitects

The Rowan is the newest tiny house model introduced by the online marketplace, Tiny House Listings. This 34-foot-long (10-meter) tiny house distinguishes itself with a useful porch area and an expansive interior layout, uniquely arranged on a single floor. While its length is comparable to many North American tiny houses, its increased width of 10 feet (3 meters) — 1.5 feet wider than the standard 8.5 feet (2.6 meters) — contributes significantly to a more spacious and home-like feel inside. However, this extra width necessitates a permit for towing on public roads in the USA, making it less ideal for frequent relocation. The Rowan is constructed on a six-axle trailer, a notable feature that suggests a design choice to distribute weight effectively. The exterior is finished with engineered board and batten wood, complemented by a metal roof, ensuring durability and a contemporary aesthetic. The interior boasts drywall finishes, providing a clean and modern canvas for residents. Access to the home is through a 6-foot (1.8-meter) porch, which leads into the living room via double glass doors. The living area is well-lit with generous glazing and is designed to accommodate a sofa, a TV, and a cabinet, creating a comfortable space for relaxation. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen, which is equipped with an induction stove and a sink. It offers ample cabinetry and designated space for additional appliances, catering to practical cooking needs. A breakfast bar with seating for two further enhances the kitchen's functionality, serving as a casual dining or workspace. Moving deeper into the tiny house, past the living and kitchen areas, is the bathroom. This facility includes a shower, a sink, a flushing toilet, and some storage, providing essential amenities within a compact footprint. One of the most significant design aspects of the Rowan is its single-floor layout, particularly evident in the bedroom. Unlike many tiny houses that feature loft bedrooms requiring occupants to crawl, the Rowan’s bedroom offers ample headroom, allowing residents to stand and move around comfortably. Located at the opposite end of the house from the entrance, the bedroom is designed to accommodate a queen-sized bed. It also includes a large built-in closet and washer/dryer hookups, maximizing convenience and storage within the limited space. The Rowan is currently available for purchase at US$92,000. This model aligns with Tiny House Listings' recent offerings, which include the larger duplex-style TinyPlex and the more budget-friendly Cortado, showcasing the marketplace's diverse range of tiny home solutions. The Rowan represents a practical yet comfortable option for individuals or couples seeking a tiny house experience with an emphasis on interior spaciousness and a semi-outdoor living component provided by its porch. #TinyHouses #TinyHouseDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MobileHomes #AffordableHousing #CompactLiving #MinimalistLiving #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

This blog post highlights a two-bedroom cooperative apartment located at 242 West 104th Street in the Riverside Drive area of Manhattan's Upper West Side. The interior design of the apartment is characterized by a warm, library-like aesthetic, featuring design elements such as rich colors, exposed brick, and a functional rolling ladder extending across the main hallway. The primary living space, including the living room, is detailed with parquet floors, wainscoting, and a bay window, complemented by a dark blue accent wall and a decorative fireplace that enhance the cozy, studious atmosphere. The open-plan kitchen, adjacent to the living room, is equipped with dark wood cabinetry and exposed hanging lightbulbs, uniquely incorporating a cooking range into the eat-in island. The apartment's layout positions the two bedrooms on opposing sides, offering flexibility for one to serve as an office. The front bedroom maintains the exposed brick theme and provides ample wall space for art, while the rear bedroom, though smaller, benefits from double exposures and south-facing windows that offer views of the surrounding cityscape and treetops. The bathroom continues the apartment's design narrative with dark blue walls, contrasted by white subway tiles and exposed hanging lightbulbs, and features a classic clawfoot tub, reinforcing the overall warm and inviting ambiance. The property is presented through Keller Williams by Michael Shapot and Kelcey Otten, appealing to those who appreciate a home with a distinctive, literary-inspired character. #UpperWestSide #CooperativeApartment #InteriorDesign #LibraryInspired #ExposedBrick #RollingLadder #ManhattanRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #HomeDecoration

This article highlights a one-bedroom apartment available for rent at $6,750 per month in a 25-foot-wide Greenwich Village townhouse located at 34 West 9th Street. The residence offers a spacious wood patio lined with greenery, providing views of tranquil backyard gardens while being steps away from the vibrant Greenwich Village neighborhood. The apartment retains original architectural details, including two decorative fireplaces, showcasing its historical charm within a modern living context. The interior of the apartment features a spacious foyer that opens into a living room adorned with high ceilings, moldings, and hardwood flooring, along with one of the decorative fireplaces. The kitchen is designed as a windowed, eat-in space, equipped with cherry cabinets and stainless steel appliances, and is large enough to accommodate ample cabinetry and a washer and dryer. The master bedroom is described as wonderfully spacious, featuring two large windows that offer treetop views, additional moldings, a chandelier with a ceiling medallion, and a second decorative fireplace. The apartment benefits from exposures to both the south and north, ensuring good natural light. Additionally, there is a bonus room, which, while not a legal second bedroom due to the absence of windows, provides extra usable space. The location of the historic brick townhouse is just off Fifth Avenue, placing residents in the heart of the Village. The area is characterized by an abundance of bars and restaurants and is less than two blocks from Washington Square Park. The private outdoor patio is presented as an ideal spot to experience the neighborhood's atmosphere. This property offers a blend of historic elegance, practical amenities, and a prime location within one of New York City's most desirable neighborhoods, making it an appealing option for those seeking a charming urban dwelling with outdoor space. #GreenwichVillage #LuxuryRental #OutdoorSpace #Townhouse #HistoricHome #NewYorkCityRealEstate #ApartmentForRent #ArchitecturalDetails

The Little Lodge, developed by Backcountry Tiny Homes, is a compact tiny house designed to provide a cabin-like living experience on wheels. It is built on a double-axle trailer, measuring 20 ft (6 m) in length, with 3 ft (0.91 m) of this dedicated to a small front porch. This design allows for a compact living space suitable for up to two people. The exterior of the Little Lodge features a combination of metal and tongue-and-groove cedar siding, complemented by a metal roof. Entry into the home is facilitated through the porch and a glass door, which opens directly into the living room area. The interior is characterized by tongue-and-groove pine walls and ceiling, contributing to a rustic aesthetic. Natural light is ample due to generous glazing, including a strategically placed skylight, which enhances the sense of openness despite the home's small footprint. The living room is equipped with a daybed that incorporates integrated storage space, serving as the primary sleeping area since a separate bedroom is not included in this model. For dining or work, a drop-down table is provided. Heating is managed by a small wood-burning stove, ensuring warmth, while a ceiling fan is installed for air circulation. This thoughtful use of space and multi-functional furniture is critical in optimizing the limited interior. The kitchen, located adjacent to the living room, is furnished with essential appliances and ample storage. It includes a two-burner propane-powered stove, a fridge/freezer, and a sink. Additionally, the kitchen area benefits from substantial shelving and houses a washer/dryer unit, adding to the home's practicality. The bathroom, positioned on the opposite side of the entrance, is designed for efficiency. It comes standard with a composting toilet, though a flushing model can be installed as an alternative, alongside a shower and a sink. Power for the Little Lodge is supplied via a standard RV-style hookup. However, there is an option to upgrade to a fully off-grid system, offering greater independence and suitability for various locations. The pricing for the Little Lodge starts at US$41,500 for a basic shell version. For those seeking a complete and ready-to-occupy residence, a fully furnished turnkey model is available for $79,800. This tiny home represents a blend of rustic charm with practical, compact living solutions. #TinyHouses #BackcountryTinyHomes #CompactLiving #MobileHome #OffGridLiving #SmallFootprint #RusticDesign #PortableHome #SustainableLiving

In 2017, Amy Hughes established Maplewood Mercantile at 145 Dunnell Road in Maplewood, envisioning it as a collaborative space for women business owners and a community hub. The location, a renovated 1920s auto garage, serves as a center for design and social gathering. The Montclair Girl interviewed Amy Hughes in 2022 to discuss the Mercantile's evolution and her entrepreneurial journey in Maplewood. Amy Hughes and her husband relocated from New York City to Maplewood. Previously a journalist and editor for *This Old House* magazine, Amy developed expertise in DIY, antiques, and vintage furniture while writing her book, *This Old House: Salvage Style Projects*. This led her to launch Salvage Style, a vintage furniture resale business, initially as a side venture in 2013, which later became her full-time occupation. Her business started in a 300-square-foot storefront on Baker Street, expanding to require multiple storage units across town to manage inventory. By 2017, the logistical challenges of managing scattered inventory prompted a search for a larger space. Amy identified a large warehouse in Maplewood, previously used by an interior designer primarily for storage with occasional sales. After a five-month process to finalize the lease and permits, Amy moved Salvage Style into the 3,000-square-foot former auto garage. The Mercantile's initial tenants included two other women-owned businesses, highlighting its foundational commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs. The transformation of the raw garage space into a retail environment required significant effort. The Mercantile's location is a key asset, situated near the Maplewood train station, Memorial Park, and local schools, which attracts both New York City commuters and local teenagers. A notable benefit is the dedicated parking, a rare commodity in downtown Maplewood. The 1920s auto garage featured concrete floors, 25-foot ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows. The landlord collaborated with Clawson Architects to replace the original windows with historically accurate and energy-efficient alternatives. The renovation involved pressure washing the interior and applying over 40 gallons of white paint, preserving the concrete floors with their original paint splatters and one exposed brick wall, creating a distinctive aesthetic. Upon entering the Merc through a 12-foot carriage door, visitors are greeted by a large acrylic 'Moonlamp,' an architectural salvage piece from Austin, Texas. The interior's airy and rugged design, coupled with its high ceilings and abundant windows, provides excellent natural ventilation, which proved beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic. The space became a refuge for the community, encouraging browsing and cultural engagement. Amy Hughes oversees the merchandising, while partner businesses curate their sections to create a cohesive yet diverse aesthetic. The current retailers at the Merc include Anna Herbst Photography, which operates a studio benefiting from the natural light and high ceilings, specializing in product, lifestyle, fine art, and portrait photography for women-owned businesses, realtors, and interior designers. The Collector, founded by Emma O’Shea, offers new and vintage clothing, focusing on sustainable practices and ethical sourcing from small NYC-area designers. Piper’s Talisman, led by Piper Jon, creates unique jewelry by upcycling antique pieces like watch chains, vintage coins, and keys, and has gained recognition from figures such as actress Melissa Gilbert. Salvage Style, Amy Hughes's original business, offers styling consultations and sells vintage and reclaimed furniture, including Mid-Century Modern pieces and antique rugs. Community engagement is central to the Mercantile's operation, with regular pop-ups and cultural events featuring live music to support young local musicians. Amy Hughes expresses pride in the Merc's role as an incubator for small, women-owned businesses, noting that several businesses have successfully launched from the space. An example is deVINE Plantery, which started online during the pandemic, joined the Merc as a pop-up, became a permanent tenant, and eventually opened its own dedicated store in Montclair. Amy credits the success of these businesses to the entrepreneurs' hard work and innovative ideas, viewing her role as providing a supportive environment. #MaplewoodMercantile #CommunitySpace #WomenOwnedBusinesses #VintageFurniture #SalvageStyle #RetailIncubator #AdaptiveReuse #LocalGems #InteriorDesign

The concept of a spacious tiny house might appear paradoxical, given the prevalent trend in tiny home design towards extreme minimalism and compact living spaces. However, many individuals and families require more expansive living areas while still desiring the advantages of tiny living, such as reduced costs and a smaller environmental footprint. The Ohana tiny home, designed by Viva Collectiv, represents an innovative solution that seeks to harmonize the need for increased space with the core principles of small-scale living. This unique dwelling was specifically created for a family with children and consists of two distinct tiny houses, each measuring 24 feet in length and 8 feet in width. These two structures are interconnected by a central, glass-roofed porch, effectively creating a larger, integrated living environment. The layout of the Ohana home is thoughtfully divided to accommodate various functions. One of the tiny house wings is dedicated to essential living spaces, housing the kitchen, a full bathroom, and the master bedroom. This arrangement ensures that the primary occupants have a private and functional area for their daily needs. The second tiny house wing is designed with the children in mind, featuring a comfortable living room area and a lofted bedroom, providing them with their own dedicated space for relaxation and sleep. The central connecting element, the glass-roofed porch, serves as an open-air common area. While this design choice allows for an abundance of natural light and a connection to the outdoors, it presents certain practical considerations. The porch is neither screened-in nor fully integrated with the insulated living spaces of the two tiny houses, which could lead to challenges during different seasons. Specifically, it might be susceptible to insect intrusion during warmer months and could experience significantly colder temperatures in the winter, potentially limiting its usability year-round. From an aesthetic perspective, the Ohana tiny home exhibits a somewhat eclectic style. The central structure, characterized by its steel-and-glass construction, offers a contemporary and industrial feel. This contrasts with the painted timber siding of the two tiny house modules, which evokes a more traditional or rustic charm. This juxtaposition of materials and styles results in an aesthetic that could be described as a "mishmash," where the different elements do not entirely coalesce into a singular, cohesive look. Despite these potential aesthetic and practical challenges related to the open-air porch, the fundamental concept of the Ohana home holds significant promise. By creatively combining two separate tiny houses with a shared central space, the design efficiently utilizes approximately 400 square feet of interior space. This approach demonstrates a viable pathway for families or individuals who find conventional tiny homes too restrictive but are still committed to the benefits and lifestyle associated with smaller, more sustainable living. The design offers a flexible and adaptable model for expanding the utility and comfort of tiny living, proving that "spacious tiny house" doesn't have to be an oxymoron. #TinyHomes #FamilyHomes #InnovativeDesign #ModularLiving #SustainableLiving #HomeArchitecture #VivaCollectiv #OpenAirSunroom #SmallFootprint

Los Angeles-based interior designer Susan Taylor of Davis Taylor Design transformed an 800-square-foot mobile home in Malibu's Paradise Cove into a functional and stylish surf shack for a family of four. The project, initially an experiment in multi-use living, offers valuable small-space design concepts applicable to various residences, despite its exclusive location. The clients requested a Scandinavian summer house aesthetic and a pale blue Smeg refrigerator, which became the central inspiration for the design. Taylor embraced this bold appliance choice, noting a shift in client preferences towards more joyful and risk-taking design decisions, especially after recent global events. The Smeg refrigerator, considered a "piece of sculpture," influenced the selection of other design elements. The design incorporated geometric Smink tile, repurposed butcher-block countertops, Dunn Edwards Swiss Coffee walls, and pale wood accents. Upholstered daybed cushions, doubling as futons, were made with outdoor fabrics from Walter G to withstand the wear and tear from a family of surf-loving boys. The overall aesthetic is simple, functional, and easy-going, designed to endure the beachside environment, located just 300 yards from the ocean. Key functional elements include built-in bookshelves for vacation reading and built-in daybeds that feature hidden storage compartments for linens, towels, and blankets. The layered foam-core mattresses wrapped in down can be spread out on the floor to accommodate additional guests, enhancing the home’s capacity for multiple occupants. Despite the small footprint, Taylor prioritized essential amenities, such as a full-sized pantry, trash cans, and a decent-sized dishwasher in the kitchen. An outdoor shower was also installed to manage the influx of sand and saltwater from beachgoers, demonstrating thoughtful pre-planning and organization to optimize small-space living. For those on a tighter budget, Taylor advises exploring creative solutions like semi-custom cabinetry from companies such as BOXI or customizing IKEA pieces with additions like crown molding and toe-kicks to achieve a built-in look. A small closet was ingeniously converted into a writing nook, complete with a perfectly fitting stool, maximizing every inch of space. The bathroom features Kohler Purist fixtures and simple hexagonal white tile, maintaining a clean and functional design. The project emphasizes that a small space can be highly functional and stylish without sacrificing essential amenities. Taylor's design philosophy demonstrates how strategic choices in color palette, materials, and built-in solutions can create an airy, uncluttered, and practical living environment. The combination of a light gray, powder blue, and aqua color scheme, along with minimalist and utilitarian elements, contributes to a spacious feel. The surf shack exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform even a modest mobile home into a highly efficient and aesthetically pleasing retreat, providing a model for small-space living that feels akin to a well-appointed hotel suite, where everything necessary is present without excess. #MalibuSurfShack #SmallSpaceLiving #InteriorDesign #ScandinavianDesign #BuiltInFurniture #BeachHouse #HomeTours #FunctionalDesign #DIYHome #MalibuHome

This two-bedroom co-op at 345 West 70th Street on the Upper West Side, listed for $1.35 million, represents a successful blend of pre-war charm and contemporary design, offering a move-in-ready living space. The residence features a fresh renovation that integrates modern technology with classic architectural elements. Key design details include loft-like 10-foot beamed ceilings, wide plank pale grey hardwood floors, and exposed brick, contributing to a rustic yet sophisticated aesthetic. Ample storage solutions are incorporated throughout the apartment. The entry hall of the co-op opens into a spacious entertaining area, which encompasses the living room, dining room, and an open kitchen. This combined space is illuminated by four oversized windows, providing open southern views and an abundance of natural light. The renovation paid meticulous attention to detail, evidenced by the integration of smart home features; all lights and the air conditioning system are wired for control via smartphone or voice commands. The kitchen has been updated with gleaming new surfaces, offering generous counter space and storage. It is equipped with new, modern appliances, including a Bosch dishwasher and a five-burner gas range, catering to contemporary culinary needs. The apartment includes two bedrooms, alongside a custom-designed bathroom. This bathroom features an oversized rain head shower with Hansgrohe fixtures, a sculptural free-standing tub, and ceramic _trompe l’oeil_ floor tiles. Glass subway tiles line the walls, and a recessed medicine cabinet includes internal power outlets, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. An Electrolux washer and dryer are also included within the bathroom space. Storage is a prominent feature of the co-op, with extensive options throughout. This includes a dedicated entry area that functions as a mudroom, complete with a hall closet. An additional hall closet is available for coats, and both the master and second bedrooms are equipped with two generous closets. All closet spaces have been professionally outfitted by California Closets, maximizing organization and utility. The property offers a comfortable and technologically advanced living experience within a historic pre-war building. #UpperWestSide #PreWarCoOp #HomeRenovation #SmartHome #NewYorkRealEstate #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #LuxuryApartment #NYCArchitecture

Nicholas Obeid, an interior designer, has transformed his 575-square-foot Greenwich Village apartment into a calm and serene refuge. The apartment, located on the third floor of a walk-up building in a bustling area south of N.Y.U., combines Obeid’s own designs with unique vintage finds, creating an escape from the city. His design philosophy emphasizes sourcing well-made, unconventional vintage pieces globally, which he then integrates with bespoke furnishings featuring a diverse array of heavily textured materials such as silk, mohair, metal, glass, leather, and various types of wood and marble. This approach is evident in his living room, where a Jean-Michel Frank-style sofa in bay leaf-colored mohair is paired with Pierre Frey jacquard pillows, a vintage wrought-iron lamp, a custom Equis table, and a T-back chair with button-tufted linen cushions. Obeid's ability to discover valuable items is highlighted by a midcentury chandelier he found at a San Telmo flea market in Buenos Aires for $70, which now hangs in his kitchen above a stainless steel baker’s rack. He often conceives new designs while working in his apartment, which he moved into in 2020. The space is unified by a color palette of butter and walnut. The bedroom features a whitewashed bespoke nightstand made from bleached acacia wood, complemented by a framed 1975 charcoal drawing by Laura Lengyel, with its matting custom-cut to align with a tubular task lamp, another Buenos Aires find. The wall opposite his low, minimalist bed is intentionally left blank, reflecting his need for serenity amidst his often-racing mind. Beyond the interiors, the apartment includes a 22-by-14-foot terrace that spans the length of the dwelling. This outdoor space provides enough room for a dining table, which Obeid often drapes in olive green linen, and a sitting area furnished with vintage wicker hoop chairs. Here, he begins his day with coffee, enjoying the quiet and sunlight. Obeid’s passion for design began in Troy, Mich., where he grew up sharing his discoveries from design magazines with his family. After college, he interned at Jonathan Adler, eventually becoming a full-time employee and running the creative services department for seven years. During this time, he designed spaces for friends and family, leading him to establish his own firm in 2018. In 2019, he began collaborating with CB2, for which he has since designed over 40 pieces of furniture, lighting, and objects. His own home now serves as a showcase for these designs, alongside custom elements like a coverlet made from Gastón y Daniela linens and vintage items such as a rattan settee found at a Michigan flea market during the pandemic. For Obeid, each piece in his home carries personal meaning, contributing to an environment that fosters clarity and confidence, reinforcing his belief that a beloved home enhances overall well-being. #InteriorDesign #GreenwichVillage #VintageDecor #NicholasObeid #SmallSpaceDesign #CustomFurniture #TexturedMaterials #EclecticStyle #UrbanRefuge