5 homes with antique doors that resonate the intricacy of Dravidian architecture

This article highlights five modern homes that showcase impressive and distinctive door designs, curated from the Dwell community. The featured homes, submitted by members through Dwell's 'Add a Home' feature, exemplify various approaches to integrating functional and aesthetic doorway solutions within contemporary living spaces. Each project offers unique insights into how doors contribute to the overall design, flow, and character of a residence. The first home, Quarry Bay Residence in Hong Kong Island, designed by Lim + Lu, features an entryway with a full-height oak slat shoe closet that includes a brass-finished cutout. The interior designers aimed to create sweeping views between rooms and maintained the building's original chipped concrete beams, juxtaposing them with new white walls and a warm palette of oak and brass accents. Materials like woven wicker and volcanic slate contribute to an island getaway aesthetic, reflecting the nature-loving owners' appreciation for relics. Next, the Renton Hill Residence in Renton, Washington, by Citizen Design Collaborative, presents a dining room that opens to an expansive outdoor area through a massive metal door. The architects focused on blending original traditional details with modern indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate the homeowners' evolving needs and social lifestyle, intending for the home to age gracefully and be passed down through generations. The third project, Chocolate Loft in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, by PLANT Architect Inc., demonstrates a flexible living solution. Here, a wall with a gentle dogleg trajectory and a series of sliding doors allows the 900-square-foot loft to transition between a two-bedroom and a one-bedroom configuration. The doors are designed with a combination of glazing at the street edge and wood veneer closer to the entry, providing both privacy and light control for the mathematics professors who use it as a pied-à-terre. Virginia House in Santiago, Chile, by 2712 / Asociados, features exterior walls on the first floor painted in a dark, neutral color that sharply contrasts with the bright, illuminated interiors and a striking sunny yellow front door. This house is located in a social housing neighborhood from the early 1960s, originally constructed with prefabricated concrete panels. The project showcases an intervention that updates one of the few remaining original constructions in an area experiencing significant economic growth and continuous home improvements. Finally, MG House in Hod HaSharon, Israel, renovated by Maya Sheinberger, emphasizes indoor/outdoor connection. Sheinberger redesigned the first floor and outdoor areas, incorporating new windows and a large front door to maximize this connection. The renovation transformed the house from a dark, old-fashioned country-style residence by changing the first-floor layout and adding a second-floor attic bedroom. The interior color scheme utilizes calm tones, combining wood with shades of blue and gray to create a serene atmosphere. #ModernDoorways #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #SlidingDoors #ExteriorDesign #InnovativeDoors

This article explores five historic residential projects that showcase a sympathetic approach to vintage style and architectural preservation, while also incorporating contemporary design elements. Each project highlights a unique method of integrating modern living with existing historical structures, ranging from mid-century beach houses to centuries-old farmhouses and repurposed industrial buildings. The first project, by Rawlins Design on Fire Island, New York, involves a 1962 beach house originally designed by Don Page, I.M. Pei’s former head graphic designer. The renovation meticulously maintains the original spatial clarity, making subtle but impactful changes. For example, an oversized brick hearth was replaced with a sleek floating ethanol fireplace, and a covered entry porch was transformed into a glass-box stair, enhancing light and openness without compromising the home's mid-century aesthetic. The design successfully updates the functionality and visual appeal while respecting its historical context. The second featured home is a 1963 Brutalist dwelling in Zurich by Hans Demarmels, reimagined by Neutral Zurich. This formidable concrete structure, characterized by its jutting forms and monolithic presence, is softened and enlivened through strategic interior design choices. A steel dining table powder-coated in a vibrant yellow, an iconic Marcel Wanders chair crafted from aramide and carbon-fiber cord, and an unexpected print featuring M&M; candies introduce levity and contemporary artistic expression, creating a striking contrast with the raw Brutalist architecture. Polyedre’s project in Boechout, Belgium, showcases the revitalization of a centuries-old farmhouse. This residence belongs to an antiques dealer and his wife, who display their curated collections in restored outbuildings. The interior features cerulean walls that serve as a dynamic backdrop for abstract modernist art by artists such as Alfred Reth and Michel Martens. This design approach creates a dialogue between the historical architecture of the farmhouse and the modern art, enriching the overall aesthetic. The fourth project, by Lezze Architecten in Boom, Belgium, demonstrates a innovative adaptive reuse. An abandoned brick-making factory’s former kiln is transformed into an architect’s live/work space. Glass-and-steel cubes are cleverly nested within the original structure, creating distinct living and working zones. This intervention respects the industrial heritage of the building while introducing modern living comforts and a unique spatial experience, illustrating a light touch in adapting historic industrial spaces for contemporary use. Finally, Kayserstudio in Barcelona renovated a 1970s former factory, converting it into a residence for a vintage furniture-dealing couple. The design emphasizes the building’s industrial character, with sand-blasted concrete columns and beams providing texture and a raw aesthetic. This setting perfectly complements the couple’s inventory of mid-century modern pieces, including Percival Lafer’s timeworn leather loungers and Pierre Guariche’s cracked-eggshell-shape Mars chair. The project celebrates the building's past while creating an inviting and stylish home that doubles as a showroom for their collection. #HistoricHomes #VintageStyle #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #MidCenturyModern #BrutalistArchitecture #FarmhouseRenovation #AdaptiveReuse #IndustrialConversion

This article explores four distinct Indian homes, each embodying a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary design. The first residence, an 80-year-old apartment in Mumbai's Art Deco quarter, was revitalized by Studio Mestry, led by Akshaya Mestry in collaboration with Bhakti Loonawat. The renovation focused on preserving the home's ancestral character while integrating modern functionality and comfort for a couple and their two daughters. Key design elements include luminous open-plan spaces, abundant natural light, high ceilings, wooden accents, chandeliers, monochrome palettes, traditional furniture, terrazzo flooring, and black granite, all contributing to an opulent, old-world atmosphere. The careful selection of materials like terrazzo, Indian marble, and wood created diverse patterns, giving each space a unique identity. The second home featured is a 5,000-square-foot apartment in Vadodara, Gujarat, designed by Surabhi Kankaria Shah and Arpit Jain. This residence seamlessly merges contemporary Indian design with classic vintage charm. The designers aimed for an accessible, simple, and functional space, characterized by light-filled interiors, spaciousness, and airiness. The design reflects the tranquil surroundings through open windows that maximize natural light and a soft color palette combined with natural elements. The living room showcases a sophisticated mix of modern and traditional aesthetics, incorporating organic textures and luxurious accents. A muted beige and brown palette in the family room emphasizes earthy tones, while cane-style furniture adds warmth. An attached balcony enhances the indoor-outdoor connection. The dining room, with its muted scheme, features a green wall adorned with nature-inspired artworks, a wood and brass dining table with a sleek marble top, and a distinctive lighting installation. The third property is a Victorian-era 2-BHK apartment in Bengaluru, nestled amidst lush greenery. Designed by Vinithra Amarnathan, principal designer at Weespaces, with Design Assistant Lavanya Chopra, this home was envisioned as a Victorian townhouse updated for a young couple with a newborn and a dog. The design retained the original structure's beauty, making minimal structural changes primarily in the main bedroom. The project presented challenges due to its smaller size compared to typical Bengaluru homes. The chosen palette was largely neutral, featuring greys and pastels, complemented by materials such as white marble, brass accents, and wood. The entryway, reminiscent of a colonial club, serves as the central axis of the home, leading to various rooms. A striking black and white harlequin flooring makes a significant visual impact, and three glass and brass 'handi' pendants introduce old-world glamour. An arched mirror at the hallway's end creates an illusion of expanded space. Finally, the article highlights an Art Deco apartment in Mumbai, known as Sunshine apartments, with surreal views of the Oval Maidan and iconic city structures. Interior designer Annkur Khosla undertook this project, drawing inspiration from her experiences in Paris. Built in the 1920s, the apartment embodies Bombay's Art Deco movement. Khosla's design ingeniously managed space and flow. The entrance foyer features a minimal floor pattern and a subtly fluted oak backdrop concealing a closet. A mirrored partition opens into the dining space, which is paneled with a similar ribbed effect. The open balcony retains original features like twin columns with Ionic capitals and a restored Art Deco grill. Khosla focused on custom hardware, including brass door handles, knobs, and intricate carpentry details. A tall brass handle at the apartment's end stands as a sculptural element. The design maintains a consistent visual language through custom furniture, unique carpeting, and art mounted on a waved wall. Wooden screens with geometric patterns function as versatile partitions, transforming private rooms into open public spaces, with varying wood finishes adding texture and depth. #IndianHomes #OldWorldCharm #VintageDesign #ArtDeco #ContemporaryInteriors #MumbaiHomes #VadodaraDesign #BengaluruArchitecture #InteriorDesign

This article highlights how custom windows and doors can transform homes, emphasizing the role of natural light in creating a brighter and lighter atmosphere. It counters the common use of standardized window sizes by showcasing five distinct residential projects that leveraged custom solutions from Kolbe Windows & Doors to achieve unique aesthetic and functional goals. The overarching theme is that custom fenestration can elevate a home from standout to truly one-of-a-kind. The first project, a 1960s San Diego home, underwent a contemporary renovation by Will & Fotsch Architects. The homeowners sought to maximize a spectacular view and an active lifestyle. Principal Andy Fotsch reframed the great room, adding 14 inches to its height, to accommodate 8-foot-tall Kolbe multi-slide doors with transom windows, specifically to enhance the ocean views. The original screened-in porch was replaced with a large deck, extending the living space and strengthening the indoor/outdoor connection. The black extruded aluminum exterior of the Kolbe VistaLuxe Collection, paired with a dark ebony stain on the interior wood frames, was chosen to match the home's contemporary style and complement its casual coastal feel. The second featured home is a seaside renovation in New England. Alex and Nicole Bender transformed a 1970s property into a contemporary dwelling with a calming ambiance and a strong connection to its natural surroundings. They utilized the VistaLuxe Collection by Kolbe Windows & Doors to create an airy atmosphere suitable for entertaining and withstanding harsh Northeast winters. The family room boasts unobstructed water views through a large sliding door and casement windows, while clerestory windows bring light to the beamed ceiling. The kitchen also incorporates large picture windows instead of upper cabinetry to frame waterfront views and enhance brightness. The third project, the Wood Screen House in Nashville by architect Michael Goorevich, explores the interplay between opacity and transparency. It features wood screen walls alongside extensive floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. General contractor Shawn Keen installed Kolbe VistaLuxe WD LINE windows, emphasizing their low-profile stiles and rails to maximize glass exposure. The contrast between the windows and Kebony slats, a naturally modified wood suitable for humid environments, contributes to the home's elegance. Frosted glass was strategically used in bathrooms for privacy while still allowing light. The fourth example, a New Jersey lake home named "La Clairiere" by Studio PHH, centers around a light-filled glass cube. This central volume connects two monolithic brick structures, allowing nature to permeate the space. Pierre-Henri Hoppenot selected large-format glazing solutions from Kolbe’s Ultra Series, including a 5-panel Lift & Slide door, to create a seamless connection between the public space and the exterior. When open, the door effectively dissolves the barrier between indoors and outdoors. Finally, the Cloud Forest House in eastern Minnesota, a 1990s property, underwent a renovation by Imprint Architecture and Design, LLC. Inspired by the owners' travels to Ecuador's cloud forest, the project focused on expansive window views, a more spacious floor plan, and a stylistic update. The great room was revamped using Kolbe Windows & Doors’ VistaLuxe AL LINE, combining lift-and-slide doors with large direct sets and clerestory windows to create the impression of entire walls of glass. Operable windows were strategically placed for natural ventilation. These projects collectively demonstrate the versatility and impact of custom window and door solutions in modern residential architecture. #CustomWindows #CustomDoors #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalLight #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernHomes #KolbeWindowsAndDoors #ResidentialArchitecture

Homebuyers often consider older homes for their unique character, architectural styles, and potential for more living space at a lower price point, often situated in established neighborhoods with mature trees. While new constructions offer modern amenities, older houses provide a rich sense of history, albeit with potential quirks and maintenance considerations. This guide explores various popular architectural styles by decade, outlining the pros and cons associated with purchasing and maintaining these historic properties. Homes from the 1990s and early 2000s, though not truly 'old,' generally comply with contemporary building codes, ensuring safe wiring and efficient insulation. However, systems like HVAC might be dated, requiring eventual replacement, and cosmetic updates could be desired. The 'McMansion' trend of this era offered expansive living spaces but came with high heating and cooling costs and variable construction quality due to rapid building. 'Façade-front' homes prioritized curb appeal with stone or brick fronts, often at the expense of cheaper materials on other sides, necessitating careful inspection for overall structural integrity. Condominiums from this period gained popularity for low exterior maintenance but involve strict HOA rules and fees that can limit remodeling and exterior alterations. The 1970s and 1980s saw the rise of contemporary and split-level designs, influenced by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, featuring open floor plans, large windows, and geometric lines. While contemporary homes are still sought after for their openness, large windows can lead to high energy costs if not updated. Split-level homes, popular in the '70s, offered unique multi-level living but often had challenging sloped yards and potential for auto fumes from integrated garages; however, their current lower demand makes them an affordable option. A-frame houses of the '80s were economical to build due to their roof-dominated exterior and large front windows but suffered from wasted interior space due to sloped walls, although they are energy-efficient and low-maintenance. The post-WWII era of the 1950s and 1960s focused on affordable housing, leading to the proliferation of Midcentury Modern, Pueblo Revival, and Ranch styles. Midcentury Modern homes, often with three bedrooms and one bath, may require updates to wiring, insulation, and windows but are cost-effective to remodel due to their simple designs. Pueblo Revival homes, common in the Southwest, feature adobe and stucco construction, which can be expensive to remodel due to the difficulty of altering windows or doorways. Ranch homes, being single-story and easy to remodel, are popular among retirees but may need costly updates to plumbing and wiring. Between the 1930s and 1940s, during and after the Great Depression, new housing styles emerged, including Cape Cod, Spanish Colonial, and Modern. Cape Cod houses, with their steep roofs, are stylish and compact but can be expensive to re-roof and remodel if not previously updated. Spanish Colonial homes, particularly in the Southwest, are large and beautiful but costly to maintain, heat, cool, and remodel due to their adobe and stucco construction. Modern homes of the 1940s offered slightly larger rooms and often an L-shaped layout, but older versions typically lack energy efficiency unless updated. Houses from the 1910s and 1920s often feature indoor plumbing and a sense of charm. Bungalow and Craftsman styles, characterized by covered front porches and simple lines, are desirable but require significant investment for updating wiring, plumbing, and asbestos removal if in original condition. Art Deco homes, prevalent in some regions, showcase sleek lines and unique decorative elements that can be expensive to remodel while preserving historical integrity. The late 19th century (1850s-1900s) introduced Italianate, Queen Anne, and Shotgun styles. Italianate and Queen Anne homes, often grand and ornate, are impressive but costly to maintain due to intricate details and lack of original insulation. Shotgun houses, long and narrow, were inexpensive to build and remodel, serving as good starter or retirement homes if updated. Even older homes from the 1800s-1850s, such as Farmhouses, Greek Revival, and Log Cabins, typically require extensive updates due to pre-electricity and plumbing construction. Farmhouses are structurally simple for additions but may have foundation issues. Greek Revival homes are massive and beautiful but come with high utility bills and maintenance costs. Log cabins, though historically significant, often require substantial work to be livable by modern standards. Homes from the 1700s and earlier, like Saltbox, Federal, and Tudor styles, are rare and often require meticulous preservation, with remodeling costs being high due to unique materials and historical restrictions. Each era presents distinct architectural beauty and challenges, offering a treasure hunt for discerning homebuyers looking for a piece of history. #OldHomes #HistoricHomes #HomeBuying #ArchitecturalStyles #HomeRenovation #RealEstate #HouseStyles #HomeMaintenance #HomeRemodeling

French doors, characterized by their panels of glass, are presented as an elegant and effortless architectural feature that can significantly enhance the light and ambiance of a home. Inspired by European chateaus and balconies, these doors are not only suitable for heritage homes but also make a beautiful statement in modern new builds. Their primary function is to filter natural light into a room, create definition between internal spaces, and improve indoor-outdoor flow, adding sophistication to any design. The article showcases 22 diverse homes that effectively integrate French doors into their design, highlighting their versatility and aesthetic appeal across various styles. For instance, a grand neo-colonial home in Adelaide's southwest utilizes French doors to flood rooms with light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In Buckland, Tasmania, a historic stone cottage at Twamley Farm features powder blue French front doors, contributing to its colourful country style. Further examples include an uplifting Victorian semi in Sydney, which uses French doors alongside original sash windows and skylights to maximize natural light and create seamless living spaces with a gelato-inspired palette. A country-coastal cottage in Keppel Sands incorporates salvaged French doors in its bedroom, flanked by linen curtains, to enhance its serene and relaxed vibe. A restored 1880s cottage in country Victoria features custom glass French doors, adding old-world glamour to its dining space, library, and sunroom. Another historic Sydney home's thoughtful restoration benefits from French doors on both sides of its dining area, ensuring cool breezes and abundant light. The article also illustrates how French doors can introduce a splash of color, as seen in Ventnor, one of Sydney's oldest homes, where Banksia yellow shutters provide both protection and a vibrant aesthetic to external French doors. A renovated 1880s homestead in the Adelaide Hills leverages French doors and quaint windows for natural light. Modern interpretations are shown in a Melbourne Italianate villa, where black steel-framed French doors connect a modern living room to a formal dining area, blending heritage with contemporary design. A luxurious Regency-style home uses French doors with a striped awning to open to a pool area, evoking a European feel. Other examples include a resort-style home by Three Birds Renovations, which strategically places multiple French doors to offer constant views of the natural surroundings and a pool. Melissa Penfold's French-inspired country house in the NSW Southern Highlands features French doors in the bedroom for streams of light. The Quarters in Jugiong, a converted shearing shed, uses numerous French doors to create an ideal indoor-outdoor flow. A contemporary Sydney terrace, following a makeover, connects its sophisticated upstairs bedroom to a balcony via classic French doors. A Hamptons-style home in Sydney's eastern suburbs received a facelift with new timber balconies and French doors painted in 'Timeless Grey' and 'Milton Moon' to achieve a crisp, classic look. Darren Palmer's family home uses antique French doors in a retreat space leading to a private balcony. A family farmhouse in the Macedon Ranges and a modern Australian farmhouse both feature antique French doors connecting indoor spaces to outdoor decks and gardens, complementing high truss ceilings. Finally, a renovated inner-city Sydney terrace defies the typical darkness of terraces by incorporating original sash windows, skylights, and French doors to ensure rooms are flooded with light, alongside elevated ceilings and enlarged living spaces for seamless flow. These examples collectively demonstrate the significant impact French doors have on a home's aesthetic, functionality, and connection to its surroundings. #FrenchDoors #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalFeatures #HomeDecor #IndoorOutdoorFlow #HeritageHomes #ModernHomes

Swastik Bhavan, the ancestral home of Jay Mehta in Porbandar, Gujarat, stands as a remarkable example of Art Deco architecture from the 1920s. Built by his grandfather, Nanji Kalidas Mehta, the industrialist and philanthropist, the house reflects both his personal journey and the architectural trends of its time. Nanji Kalidas Mehta, who left Porbandar for East Africa at a young age in 1900, returned as a successful businessman and commissioned the construction of Swastik Bhavan, which was completed in 1936. The residence was designed by the royal architect Purushottam Mistry, a choice that underscored the home's significance and Nanjibhai’s standing within the community. The name "Swastik Bhavan" itself is a tribute to Nanjibhai's faith and his adherence to the Arya Samaj reform movement, which emphasizes traditional Indian values and beliefs. The house was built along Uganda Road, a main thoroughfare featuring palatial mansions of individuals who had prospered in East Africa, highlighting a shared history among the city's successful residents. The architectural design of Swastik Bhavan is a fusion of Art Deco principles with adaptive features suitable for the local climate and a large family. It is a double-storeyed structure constructed with limestone from the nearby Adityana quarry. The interiors boast Italian marble floors, Japanese tiles, and frosted Art Deco glass chandeliers from Europe, alongside furniture sourced from Africa, showcasing a global influence in its design and materials. A distinctive feature is the roughly triangular courtyard at its heart, which, though unusual in an Indian context, served as a space for family rituals and children's play. The layout of the home is characterized by a central cupola-topped octagonal curving tower, which houses a stairwell and acts as the main welcoming feature, radiating into V-shaped buildings. This octagonal design extends to a lower informal waiting room at the entrance, leading into a formal spacious sitting room. The home was designed to accommodate extensive family gatherings, featuring six large bedroom suites, each comprising reception chambers, sleeping rooms, and worship spaces, as well as ample storage. Nanjibhai and his wife occupied the largest suites on the ground floor, while the upper floor was designated for their children and their families. Throughout the house, deliberate architectural choices ensure comfort and ventilation. Wide verandas, double-ventilation features, and double-pane windows were incorporated to channel sea breezes and modulate indoor temperatures. The wide corridors, adorned with Minton tiles, provide shade and ventilation to the large interior rooms, offering respite from the harsh sun and monsoon rains. The interior aesthetics include pastel pink, green, and yellow lozenge patterns on terrazzo floors, contrasting with terracotta jali railings and a sweeping staircase with dark-colored wood risers and a flower motif. Swastik Bhavan has been a hub for notable guests, including the maharaja and maharani of Porbandar, former Indian prime ministers like Indira Gandhi and Morarji Desai, and even Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kamal Mehta, Nanjibhai’s granddaughter, recalls that Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and many other eminent personalities, including writers, thought leaders, and poets, have been welcomed guests. The house continues to serve as a gathering place for the extended Mehta family, with its airy bedrooms still utilized during family reunions. The dining room, with its marble cabochon flooring and yellow Porbandar stone accents, connects to a spacious kitchen known for preserving century-old recipes. The art collected by Nanjibhai and his wife during their travels to Japan adorns the walls, adding to the home's rich historical and cultural tapestry. Nearly a century after its construction, Swastik Bhavan remains a cherished repository of memories and a living testament to Nanjibhai’s vision and values, embodying a unique blend of tradition, modernity, and global influences in its Art Deco design. #ArtDecoArchitecture #AncestralHome #IndianHeritage #GujaratDesign #HistoricalHomes #FamilyLegacy #ArchitecturalDesign #Porbandar

This lookbook showcases ten residential projects that effectively incorporate French doors, highlighting their versatility and aesthetic appeal in various home designs. French doors are typically characterized as a pair of doors featuring glass panes that extend their full height, often used to connect indoor and outdoor spaces while maximizing natural light. Their largely glass construction allows for significant light ingress, making them suitable as exterior doors, but they also serve as effective interior partitions, dividing spaces without sacrificing openness or brightness. The featured projects demonstrate diverse applications of French doors within home renovations, extensions, and new builds. One example is the Tower House in London, designed by Dominic McKenzie Architects, where black, glass-panelled French doors, situated beneath a rectangular skylight, open onto a sunken garden from a brick extension. The interior of this project features chevron flooring, drawing the eye towards these doors. In Shanghai, Atelier Tao+C renovated a top-floor apartment to feature a study as its central element. Here, white French doors are oriented towards a white modular sofa and lead to an L-shaped balcony. These doors are framed by floor-to-ceiling smoked oak bookshelves that line the entire apartment. Studio Schicketanz’s Tehama One in California utilizes extensive panelled glass, including large French doors, to integrate indoor and outdoor living areas around a landscaped courtyard. The design emphasizes textural materials throughout the interior, and the French doors offer serene views of the central courtyard. Casa Mami, a holiday home in the Californian desert by Working Holiday Studio, draws inspiration from Japanese and Scandinavian design and the work of Luis Barragán. French doors in this project frame the desert landscape from within the minimalist interior, which includes a sculptural Cylinder Back Armchair. Gundry & Ducker’s White Rabbit House in London, a neo-Georgian home, features green-painted double doors in the kitchen that open to a garden. A skylight above the kitchen and its island-cum-breakfast bar complements these doors, contributing to the bright and open feel of the space. Amott Road in East Dulwich, London, by Alexander Owen Architecture, is characterized by curving timber, geometric shapes, and vibrant colors. Arched French doors, leading to the garden from a wood-lined kitchen, enhance the home's modernist and pop-art aesthetic. Kilburn Nightingale's renovation of a Victorian property in Hackney, London, includes a double-height library with pale-wood-lined glazing and French doors that open to the garden. This design visually connects the outdoor space and an upper-level living room with a mezzanine-style railing. An Antwerp apartment designed by Bovenbouw Architectuur, located in a converted 19th-century building, features large French doors that extend high into the interior. The design incorporates classical elements like parquet flooring and decorative marble panelling, reflecting 19th-century design ideas. Maison 0.82 in France, by Pascual Architect, is a single-storey home where an open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area are positioned on the southern side. Floor-to-ceiling glazing, doubling as large French doors, provides extensive views and access to the exterior. Finally, Lucas y Hernández-Gil’s overhaul of a 19th-century apartment in Madrid involved reconfiguring the layout, adding new kitchen features, and incorporating oak and stone surfaces. Original joinery was restored, and French doors from the open-plan kitchen and living area can be covered by bi-folding shutters to control light. These projects collectively demonstrate how French doors can be a key architectural element, enhancing light, space, and connection to the outdoors in diverse residential settings. #FrenchDoors #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #NaturalLight #ResidentialProjects #ArchitecturalFeatures #ModernLiving #DesignInspiration #Lookbook

Interior designer Nicole Fisher of BNR Interiors transformed a four-bedroom, builder-grade row house in Hudson, Upstate New York, into a vibrant home with British charm. The initial state of the house, purchased by a developer, lacked character with generic hardware store moldings and fixtures. Fisher's primary goal was to infuse personality and warmth into the space, moving away from the common 'white on white' aesthetic prevalent in the region. The design process began with selecting a cohesive color palette, largely inspired by House of Hackney’s Avalon wallpaper, a striped and floral pattern used in the dining room. This wallpaper dictated the selection of 14 different paint colors applied throughout the house, aiming to create a distinctly British, rather than farmhouse, atmosphere. The homeowners, being British themselves, were receptive to a bold and layered approach to interior design, having previously embraced unconventional choices like a lime green kitchen in their London home. Fisher embraced the British tendency for playful interiors, characterized by multiple patterns and layers, creating spaces that feel timeless rather than confined to a specific era. The philosophy was to choose elements that the homeowners loved, ensuring they would work together harmoniously if executed correctly. A significant feature of the renovation included the incorporation of two hidden doors—one leading to a pantry and another in the TV room. These hidden spaces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing privacy in a house where the entire length is visible from the front door, and offering practical solutions for entertaining by concealing clutter or creating a 'speakeasy' feel. Attention to detail extends to specific rooms, such as the primary bedroom, where multiple patterns are successfully integrated. The key to this success lies in a common color thread, specifically a cranberry hue, which is consistently pulled through various elements like the bed, wallpaper, and chair tassels. Additionally, Fisher employed variations in scale, combining small and large patterns, such as a chunky floral fabric from Liberty (which held sentimental value for the homeowner as her wedding dress designer) for the headboard. This approach creates a collected, aged feel, reminiscent of a modern grandmother's country house, avoiding a 'too new' or 'too precious' ambiance. The kitchen also showcases unique finds, including a faux marble island sourced from 1stDibs. This island, with its colors complementing the chosen wallpaper, became a central element that set the tone for the rest of the kitchen, contributing to the overall layered and inviting aesthetic Fisher aimed for. Other notable design choices include Sanderson’s Stapleton Park Wallpaper in the dressing room, Farrow & Ball’s Potted Shrimp for the den walls, Phillip Jeffries’s Island Raffia in the living room, Cole & Son’s Frutta e Geometrico in the bar area, Soane’s Scrolling Acanthus in Bloom in the primary bedroom, John Derian wallpaper in another bedroom, and Scalamandre’s Magnus in Indigo Blue in the laundry room. These selections highlight a rich interplay of patterns, textures, and colors, successfully transforming a generic space into a home filled with character and warmth, deeply influenced by British design sensibilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BritishCharm #PatternMixing #WallpaperDesign #ColorPalette #HiddenDoors #HudsonHome #BNRInteriors

This article explores seven Indian homes that showcase the timeless charm and versatility of bricks in their architectural design. Bricks are presented not merely as a construction material but as a medium for artistic expression, blending tradition with modernity across various residential projects, from urban apartments to lakeside retreats. Each featured home demonstrates how architects and homeowners have embraced exposed brickwork to create unique, aesthetically pleasing, and often sustainable living spaces. The first home, a weekend retreat in Gujarat designed by Vaissnavi Shukl, exemplifies a red brick wonder. The owners specifically requested exposed brick, which also functions as a load-bearing superstructure. The design incorporates features like long slit windows, pergolas, and clerestories to manage sunlight, complemented by an RCC brise-soleil to minimize western glare. Interior elements include plywood finishes, leather-finish Kota stone flooring, and wooden furniture, creating a low-maintenance and inviting atmosphere where the natural light and brick aesthetic are central. In Delhi, Shonan Purie Trehan's design for her parents' home utilizes brick to weave personal memories into the architecture. This residence, hidden behind trees in Golf Links, integrates elements of Art Deco, intricate inlaid floors, handcrafted tiles, and personal photographs, all crafted in collaboration with artisans. The sculptural handmade brick exterior, with each shifting brick meticulously placed, creates a fluid and poetic spatial experience, dynamically connecting gardens, patios, and a pool with the interiors. Bengaluru's 'The Garden House,' designed by Nayanika Natesh of NNAD Studio, focuses on biophilic flourishes for an elderly couple passionate about environmental sustainability. This 1,800-square-foot bungalow features numerous open and green spaces, utilizing upcycled and refurbished architectural components and furniture. The brick-clad exterior and interior showcase a minimal color scheme, with decor and soft furnishings breaking the monotony. Clerestory windows and intricate iron filigree allow natural light to filter in, while a sunken seating area with brick-based benches enhances the airy and flexible milieu. Amit Khanna of Amit Khanna Design Associates highlights the enduring appeal of brick, concrete, and stone in a three-level villa in Gurugram. The design intentionally restricts itself to these three materials, creating a timeless aesthetic reminiscent of ancient monuments. One wing features an inscrutable brick façade, partially perforated by a 'jaali' (screen) that filters light during the day and creates a shimmering effect at night. The use of locally sourced, thin 'nikki' bricks from Sinauli, Uttar Pradesh, emphasizes sustainability and allows for elegant, narrow horizontal apertures in the 'jaali' design. In Kerala, architect Srijit Srinivas designed a minimalist home for Rajnath R and Preetha B, focusing on exposed brickwork and eco-sensitive results. Faced with a challenging 2,178-square-foot plot in a busy neighborhood, Srinivas opted for a simple platonic cuboid form with a slanted front. A stunning brick lattice treatment on the front façade ensures privacy for living and sleeping areas on the upper floor while allowing for unhindered airflow, creating a private oasis amidst the urban bustle. Ankleshwar, Gujarat, features a multigenerational courtyard home by Tarun Patel of MISA Architects, designed to be 'inside out' while maintaining privacy. Patel crafted an alternating brick pattern for the façade, welcoming light but deterring prying eyes. He meticulously calculated the smallest brick-to-cement ratio and even demonstrated the brick bond technique to contractors. Concrete bands along window sills and lintels were integrated to stabilize the brick walls and fortify the structure, enveloping it in the beauty of bricks while ensuring seclusion. Finally, Jitendra Sabalpara of Design Work Group in Surat designed a light-filled bungalow where brick is integral to the design, reflecting Louis Kahn's philosophy on material use. The four-storey, five-bedroom home features a façade of brick, black granite, and concrete, giving it a distinctive identity. The exposed brick wall, large arched opening, and contemporary metal screen (jaali) provide a breathable, climate-responsive skin, with granite stone cladding complementing the earthy tones of the brick. #IndianHomes #BrickArchitecture #RusticDesign #SustainableHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #Materiality #ModernTraditional #EcoFriendly

The Courtyard House, situated in Mansanpally village, approximately 40 km from Hyderabad, India, represents a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Manduva house. This architectural design, completed in 2023 by 23 Degrees Design Shift, integrates the classic concept of a courtyard, a prevalent feature in Indian vernacular architecture, into a modern living space. Courtyards traditionally serve multiple purposes beyond climatic regulation, acting as social hubs, spaces for contemplation, and venues for various activities. The project emphasizes the simplicity and authenticity inherent in vernacular architecture, aiming to create spaces that are both functional and serene for contemporary inhabitants. The project covers an extensive area of 14,000 square meters. Key architectural elements and materials utilized include wood for various structural and aesthetic components, large windows that maximize natural light and views of the surrounding garden, and open-plan living areas that foster a sense of spaciousness and connection with nature. The design prioritizes the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, with the courtyard at the heart of the residence. The use of natural materials like wood contributes to the aesthetic appeal and sustainability of the building, while also resonating with traditional Indian building practices. Photographs by The Fishy Project document the completed structure, showcasing its interior photography, including living rooms, bedrooms, dining areas, and exterior views featuring gardens and patios. The design team was led by Srikanth Reddy, Raghuram, and Neelesh. Manufacturers such as Hunsur, Magari, and Ritika woods contributed to the material palette of the house. The emphasis on a modern twist to vernacular architecture suggests a thoughtful approach to design, balancing heritage with contemporary needs and sensibilities. The Courtyard House aims to provide a comfortable and culturally resonant living environment, reflecting a harmonious blend of past architectural wisdom and present-day demands. This approach highlights how traditional architectural forms can be adapted to suit modern lifestyles without losing their essence or functionality. The integration of the courtyard into the residential design provides natural ventilation and lighting, which are crucial for energy efficiency and occupant comfort in the local climate. The central open space also serves as a private oasis, offering residents a direct connection to nature within their home. The layout of the house revolves around this central feature, ensuring that most rooms benefit from the views and natural elements of the courtyard. This design strategy not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the home but also contributes to a sense of well-being and tranquility for its residents. The project exemplifies a successful fusion of traditional architectural principles with modern design, creating a unique and responsive living environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #IndianArchitecture #VernacularArchitecture #ModernDesign #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #InteriorDesign

This article explores three distinct homes in Vadodara, India, each showcasing a unique approach to design by renowned architectural firms: MS Design Studio, A+T Associates, and Dipen Gada & Associates. A common thread weaving through these projects is the versatile and aesthetic use of concrete, contributing to a sense of subtle beauty and pared-back aesthetics. The first home, a 5,500-square-feet bungalow conceptualized by Manav and Shivangi Patel of MS Design Studio, emphasizes a sophisticated yet understated lifestyle. The exterior features a geometric composition of grey RCC, harmoniously contrasted with warm brick. A notable design element is a stand-alone RCC wall in the garden, cast with a Madhubani tree pattern, which adds privacy and artistic flair to the open-air space. Inside, a subdued palette of Italian marble, concrete textures, metal, and wood tones creates an elegant backdrop. Exposed concrete is seamlessly integrated into both the interior and exterior design, contributing to the bungalow's visual appeal. The second project is a joint family home designed by Tanvi Rajpurohit and Archis Patel of A+T Associates for a tech-savvy couple. The clients sought a residence that blended modern aesthetics with traditional roots, accommodating both children and parents. A key feature is the automated louvers, which can be rotated up to 90 degrees and controlled via a smartphone or timer system, providing both functionality and a futuristic touch. The interior boasts an ultra-modern color scheme, predominantly featuring variations of grey for ceilings, walls, and flooring. Exposed concrete walls are left untreated, maintaining a raw and authentic feel. The home also includes a well-designed entertainment zone with an exposed concrete bar counter, catering to the clients' social lifestyle. Clean lines, plush textures, and thoughtful furnishings contribute to a serene ambiance, complemented by bold artworks. The third home, a multigenerational bungalow by Dipen Gada & Associates, offers a serene escape characterized by exposed ceilings, sun-drenched spaces, and traditional jali designs, all within a Vastu-verified layout. A distinctive feature is the exposed concrete ceiling in the living room, which incorporates a geometric pattern and pre-planned lighting. An elegantly slim metal staircase serves as a prominent design element, supported by a wall that combines textured concrete paneling and POP (Plaster of Paris). Light streams through a skylight, creating a dynamic interplay with the textured wall and filling the space with natural light and shadow patterns. The client, a businessman with parents and two children, waited a year for Dipen Gada & Associates to undertake the project, highlighting the firm's reputation and the client's confidence in their vision. The design thoughtfully integrates natural light and shadow, enhancing the home's connection to its surroundings. #VadodaraHomes #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ConcreteArchitecture #ModernAesthetics #SubtleBeauty #ParedBackDesign #IndianArchitecture #ResidentialDesign

The perception of home interiors has undergone significant transformations over time, driven by shifts in architectural styles, design trends, and the evolution of everyday functions. While modern advancements like high-tech appliances and seamless internet connectivity are widely embraced for their convenience, certain traditional design elements have fallen out of favor, much to the dismay of some interior designers. These professionals argue that these antique features possess an enduring appeal and functionality that should never have been discarded. One such feature is the breakfast room. Rudy Saunders of Dorothy Draper & Co. advocates for the return of these intimate, well-defined spaces, which were common before World War II. He notes that breakfast rooms offered privacy and helped maintain clutter-free main living areas, a stark contrast to today's open-plan layouts where dining rooms are often repurposed for home offices or recreational activities. Saunders suggests that even without a dedicated breakfast room, homeowners can recreate a special dining experience by taking the time to set the table with china and fabric napkins, elevating everyday meals. Another highly valued antique feature is the butler's pantry. Although not entirely obsolete, these transitional spaces, typically located between the kitchen and dining room, were once essential for staging and serving meals in the 19th century. Designer Gary McBournie frequently reincorporates butler's pantries into his projects, often enhancing them with a bar, small sink, and wine fridge to create a sophisticated entertaining area. The decline of the butler's pantry is largely attributed to the move towards smaller homes and city apartments, where space was at a premium. Garden follies, once a status symbol in 18th-century English gardens, are also due for a resurgence, according to New York designer Phillip Thomas. These structures, ranging from tea houses to decorative ruins, were designed to draw the eye to specific landscape features and were primarily used for recreational activities. Thomas suggests repurposing existing structures like sheds or abandoned stables to create modern follies, offering a charming space for social gatherings. Dramatic ceilings represent another lost art in contemporary home design. Margaret Naeve Parker, an interior designer from Houston, observes that older homes often featured varying ceiling heights—an eight-foot entry leading to a soaring fifteen-foot living room, for instance—to create visual drama and define spaces. Modern residences, in contrast, tend to stick to uniform ceiling heights, lacking this architectural intrigue. Parker advises homeowners undertaking new builds or major renovations to explore options for incorporating varied ceiling heights, emphasizing the importance of early planning due to structural implications. Stained glass, a popular element in the 19th and 20th centuries, is admired for its ability to add character, color, and narrative to a property. Claire Staszak of Centered by Design highlights its potential as a starting point for color palette development. Unlike the religious themes often found in churches, residential stained glass during the Arts and Crafts movement featured geometric and nature-inspired designs. Staszak encourages integrating stained glass into contemporary interiors by adding panels to cabinet doors or replacing interior doors with antique stained glass versions. Finally, laundry chutes and dumbwaiters are praised for their practical benefits in multi-level homes. Janine Carendi MacMurray of AREA Interior Design notes that laundry chutes significantly reduced the effort of transporting dirty clothes to the laundry room, while dumbwaiters facilitated the movement of food, firewood, and luggage between floors without disturbing living areas. These features, popular during the Gilded Age and 19th century, became less common with the rise of single-story homes. However, MacMurray suggests that these conveniences can still be integrated into modern homes by utilizing existing closets or wall cavities, often with motorized systems for dumbwaiters. #InteriorDesign #AntiqueFeatures #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalElements #DesignTrends #HistoricalHomes #HomeRenovation #InteriorDecorating

The article showcases five homes that embody the Art Deco architectural and interior design style, highlighting its enduring appeal and luxurious aesthetic. Art Deco, which celebrates its centenary, is characterized by its streamlined forms, geometric patterns, rich materials, and modern elegance. The featured homes, located across India, demonstrate how this lavish style is maintained, restored, or reinterpreted in contemporary settings. One featured residence is Shirin Bharucha’s 2,500-square-foot apartment in a historic Art Deco building in Mumbai, overlooking the Oval Maidan. This apartment is a testament to Mumbai’s early urban planning and its embrace of Art Deco during the city's economic rise in the early 20th century. Bharucha, a heritage activist, has passionately worked to preserve the area's architectural integrity. Her home retains original features such as vibrant terrazzo flooring from Bharat Floorings & Tiles, showcasing a mix of colors and vertical lines that subtly guide the layout. Wood is used sparingly for decorative paneling, emphasizing the clean lines characteristic of Art Deco. The apartment’s spacious layout, encompassing three bedrooms, a drawing room, dining room, kitchen, and staff quarters, reflects the grandeur of the era. Another example is a bungalow in Kolkata, home to a multigenerational business family. Originally built with Feng Shui principles by a Chinese family, the home underwent a contemporary update while preserving its Art Deco identity. Pooja Bihani of Spaces and Design led the renovation, focusing on integrating modern elements without overshadowing the original style. Key Art Deco features, such as gracefully curved elevation projections, the original wooden staircase railing, and the entrance door, were preserved and seamlessly integrated with contemporary finishes. The ground floor, spanning 3,000 square feet, features an interactive layout with collapsible fluted glass doors, a monochromatic theme, and rich materials like marble and oak wood. A prominent artwork by Kumaresan adorns the living room, designed for large gatherings. The wooden staircase, with added marble inlay elements, serves as a striking blend of old and new. The article also presents a home in Delhi’s Golf Links, belonging to Madhu and Naresh Trehan, designed by Shonan Purie Trehan. This home is described as a personal narrative, incorporating Art Deco elements, intricate inlaid floors, handcrafted tiles, and unique artworks. It breaks away from traditional bourgeois aesthetics, offering a daring and unconventional design. The house is filled with natural light and color, reflecting the owners' memories and expressions. The design deconstructs the standard rectangular plot, creating a fluid space that dynamically connects the garden, patio, and pool with the interiors. The sculptural handmade brick exterior further exemplifies the artistic freedom and precise craftsmanship evident throughout the home. A Churchgate apartment in Mumbai, inherited by Manasvi Bachhav, principal designer of The Architecture Company (TAC), showcases the restoration of old-world charm. This 1,800-square-foot apartment, purchased by Bachhav's grandfather in 1955, is located in an Art Deco building near the Brabourne Cricket Ground, offering views of Malabar Hill and the Arabian Sea. The renovation aimed to revive the apartment's original character, which had been altered by previous ad hoc repairs. Bachhav focused on retaining the 'Mumbai' flavor, blending vintage elements with contemporary details, and incorporating global influences like tropical modernism, mid-century Scandinavian warmth, and Japanese minimalism. Restored features include the original 1950s terrazzo flooring, refinished Burma teak wood doors, and vintage brass hardware. Cherished pieces collected by Bachhav’s grandparents are also integrated into the design. Finally, an 18,000-square-foot mansion in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills, owned by Rohit Reddy and designed by Vinita Chaitanya, channels the Jazz Era. Chaitanya transformed the newly built structure, seeing beyond the glass and concrete to infuse it with soul through layers of textures, patterns, and colors. She drew inspiration from a stunning Italian marble with gold and pink streaks, which evoked European palazzo vibes, leading her to pursue an Art Deco interior. Marble was extensively used around doors, as architraves, and in floor inlays near the staircase. Chaitanya brought in elements that conveyed a sense of history, embodying the geometry, symmetry, and elegance of the 1920s. She landscaped the internal courtyard, adorned sky-high walls with classic wallpaper, and embellished passageways with old-world pendants and doors with magnificent grillework, creating a seamless blend of past and present. The resulting home is a grand and deeply personal space, reflecting artistry and intentional design. #ArtDecoHomes #IndianArchitecture #JazzEraDesign #HeritagePreservation #InteriorDesign #MumbaiArtDeco #KolkataBungalow #DelhiHomeDesign #HyderabadMansion

This article explores a collection of 10 homes that successfully integrate traditional architectural styles with modern interior design, showcasing a growing trend in home aesthetics where these historically distinct approaches are celebrated together. The examples provided demonstrate how various architects and designers have navigated the challenge of blending old and new, creating spaces that respect historical context while embracing contemporary living. The first example features an 1850s schoolhouse in Milford, Pennsylvania, transformed by Andrew Magnes and Koray Duman. Their design philosophy centered on mirroring the simplicity of the historic white clapboard exterior with a contemporary yet understated interior, preserving the building's historical integrity while introducing modern elements. Bookcases set back on the upstairs landing contribute to an open and spacious feel. Next, a writer's coach house in Birmingham, England, designed by Intervention Architecture, seamlessly blends with its Victorian surroundings through a brick facade and faux timber doors. Inside, the kitchen highlights modern finishes with a porcelain tile backsplash and quartz countertop. Troppo Architects' renovation of an 1880s bungalow in Adelaide, Australia, left the sandstone and brick Victorian exterior largely untouched while introducing a modern window seat in the northeast corner, strategically placed to capture natural light. In Lake Ontario, Canada, Drew Mandel Architects updated a traditional Edwardian home. Mandel's design included a blackened-steel framed fireplace echoing the new facade's window and door treatments, alongside a six-by-eight-foot ground-floor extension. Kirkwood McCarthy reimagined an old furniture workshop in London, England. The home's facade respects its conservation area setting with red bricks and sash windows, subtly hinting at the modern interior. The kitchen, located in a sunken basement, features walnut steps, white cabinetry, Silestone countertops, and integrated appliances. Tribe Studio's project in Sydney, Australia, involved a 1920s bungalow. While the decorative facade remained intact, a dramatic contemporary extension was added to the back. The architect, Hannah Tribe, describes this as "suburban uncanny," where modernism is clean, blunt, and yet familiar. The bathroom showcases custom wooden cabinetry and Brodware faucets. Cousins & Cousins Architects worked on a glass and brick house in The London Borough of Hackney. The modern addition, characterized by a glass wall, uses repurposed bricks from the original Victorian home's demolition. The dining area, featuring Eames fiberglass chairs, benefits from pale finishes and wood flooring, enhancing a sense of airiness. SHH Architects developed a sophisticated townhouse in London. Behind a traditional facade, the interior was rebuilt with a timber and steel frame and a rear extension. A notable feature is a five-story double-sided aluminum bookcase and a kitchen with a Bulthaup island. Blouin Tardif Architecture Environment renovated a historic duplex in Le Plateau Mont-Royal, Canada. The front of the home retained its original design, including the duplex's stairs, with everything restored respectfully. Inside, uniformity was achieved with a white-painted steel staircase and walnut steps matching the home's wood elements. Finally, +tong tong gave a Victorian home in Toronto, Canada, a modern makeover. A triangular bedroom window with a custom blind and a zinc awning over the front door define the exterior. The interior boasts a vent-free fireplace in the dining room from EcoSmart Fire. These projects collectively illustrate a harmonious coexistence of traditional exteriors and contemporary interiors, offering diverse approaches to achieving this design synergy. #HomeDesign #TraditionalArchitecture #ModernInteriors #ArchitecturalRenovation #HistoricHomes #ContemporaryDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignFusion