Jordana Green and Mark Grossfield Rebuild Their St. Louis Park Home

David and Emma Engerer, a young couple, have embarked on a significant endeavor to revitalize the historic Stuart Neighborhood in Kalamazoo through the renovation and rental of its aging houses. David, 28, from metro Detroit, and Emma, 22, from Austin, Texas, met at a skateboarding contest in Houston and later married in October 2019. Their venture into real estate began after David's graduation from Western Michigan University, encouraged by his father to purchase and renovate older homes to generate rental income. The couple's commitment to the neighborhood is evident in their hands-on approach to renovations, with David performing most of the restoration work alongside Emma. Their efforts have been lauded by local residents, including Gary Wark, president of the Stuart Area Restoration Association, who notes the positive contrast with absentee landlords. The Engerers are part of a growing trend of younger individuals investing in the historic area, which boasts many houses dating back to the 1870s when it was a thriving community for businessmen and professionals. David emphasizes the importance of maintaining a vision for the properties' potential, despite the inherent challenges of home fix-ups. Their first acquisition was an American Foursquare stucco house at 821 Kalamazoo Ave., built in 1910. Originally a single-family residence, it had been converted into a duplex in the 1920s and suffered from neglect, including foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical issues. Emma humorously compared it to the 'Money Pit' movie. Despite its condition, the house had existing tenants, and its structural integrity was surprisingly sound. This initial project served as a significant learning experience for the couple. Following this, the Engerers purchased two more 19th-century homes in the neighborhood, with plans for additional acquisitions. One of these is their personal residence, a 4,000-square-foot Queen Anne Victorian at 418 Stuart Ave., known as the French/Allen House, built in 1895. This house, rich in history with four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, stained-glass windows, and a sweeping veranda, was originally appointed by Marshall Field. It was once owned by Dorr French, a justice of the peace and city attorney, and later by Harold Allen, vice president of First National Bank and corporate secretary for The Upjohn Co. They acquired this house in May 2020 at a reduced price, undertaking interior upgrades such as replacing old galvanized steel pipes and plumbing, replicating door moldings, and re-doing bathrooms, all while meticulously preserving the historic integrity. David expresses strong disapproval of renovations that strip old homes of their original charming features. Local historian Sharon Carlson, a resident of the Stuart Neighborhood, commends the Engerers' dedication, noting that landlords who live in the neighborhood tend to be the most effective. In July 2020, they bought another rental property at 500 Stuart Ave., a four-unit dwelling built by George Rickman in the late 1880s, one of three brick Queen Anne-style houses on the street. They are currently performing exterior and limited interior renovations, with more extensive work planned as tenant leases expire. This house, along with its neighbors, is distinctive for its brick construction, unusual for Victorian homes of that era. Emma, who initially had no plans to leave Texas, credits her move to Michigan to her relationship with David and a strong sense of divine guidance. She discovered Michigan's distinct seasons, a new experience compared to Texas. David's background includes a past as an aspiring professional skateboarder and snowskater, sponsored by Ambition Snowskates. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in exercise science, initially intending to become a physical therapist, but discovered a passion for home renovation after summer jobs involving repairs. David's father, a successful physical therapist and experienced home renovator, has been a significant mentor, guiding them with insights into making properties profitable and managing renovations. The Engerers emphasize that while financial viability is crucial for such projects, passion and vision are paramount. They plan to remain in the Stuart Neighborhood long-term, expressing their love for the community and its historical homes. #HistoricHomeRenovations #StuartNeighborhood #KalamazooRealEstate #PropertyInvestment #CommunityRevitalization #QueenAnneVictorian #OldHouseRestoration #RentalProperties #NeighborhoodDevelopment

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

In the vibrant Greenpoint section of Brooklyn, a creative couple, Jill Magid, a conceptual artist, and Jonny Bauer, an advertising executive, embarked on a significant remodel of their row house. This property, originally a workman’s cottage, underwent a head-to-toe transformation completed in mid-2013, blending its historical essence with modern design sensibilities. The exterior of the home immediately signals its updated character through subtle yet impactful design choices. For instance, the house numbers, a sleek neon '175' rendered in a sans serif font, serve as a modern beacon on a street otherwise characterized by more traditional architecture. This miniature, functional art piece, created by Magid herself, hints at the artistic and thoughtful approach taken throughout the renovation. The project focused on preserving the historic 'bones' of the structure while introducing contemporary interior updates to suit the couple's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This careful balance ensures that the home respects its past as a workman's cottage but simultaneously functions as a modern family residence. The renovation involved a comprehensive overhaul, from structural adjustments to the selection of finishes and fixtures, all designed to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of the space. The integration of modern elements, such as the distinctive neon house numbers and potentially other interior design features, contrasts with the traditional brick siding, creating a unique visual identity for the property. The article highlights how the couple approached the renovation, suggesting a collaborative effort that infused their individual creative and professional backgrounds into the home's design. The choice of materials, color palettes, and spatial arrangements would have been meticulously considered to achieve a harmonious blend of old and new. This thoughtful renovation process aims to create a living space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for a contemporary family. The remodel transforms the historic dwelling into a personalized sanctuary that reflects the artistic inclinations of its owners while maintaining a connection to its architectural heritage. Ultimately, the project in Greenpoint serves as an example of how historic properties can be revitalized through careful and creative renovation. By updating the interior while honoring the original structure, Magid and Bauer have created a home that stands out with its unique blend of artistic expression and historical charm. The narrative implicitly suggests that the renovation involved strategic decisions to modernize living spaces, improve natural light, and optimize the layout, all contributing to a more comfortable and visually engaging environment. The home becomes a testament to how art and design can elevate everyday living within an urban historical context. #BrooklynHome #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriorDesign #Greenpoint #ArtisticHome #RowHouseRenovation #CreativeCouple #UrbanDesign

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

Carole and Don Watanabe have transformed an ordinary 1963 California ranch-style house in Sebastopol into a unique and vibrant living art piece called Chez La Vie. Carole, a multi-talented artist, and Don, an architect, collaborate to create a home that is an ongoing project of artistic expression and precision. The property encompasses multiple structures, including their main residence, an attached apartment for Don's father, an appealing guesthouse known as the Art Chapel, and various utilitarian sheds that are integrated into the artistic landscape. The main house immediately catches the eye with its vibrant ultramarine blue exterior, trimmed with deep turquoise and brick red. A wide berm in front of the property features Carole's "drive-by gallery," where steel frames crowned with corrugated aluminum roofs will display sheet metal paintings by local children, sold to support school art programs. The entrance to their home and Don Sr.'s apartment are adorned with enormous antique Indonesian facades made of intricately carved teak. Tall columns flanking the Watanabe entrance are covered in colorful spirals, created by Carole using abandoned mirrors and broken ceramics, giving them a jewel-box appearance. This use of found and repurposed materials is a hallmark of Carole's work, with a significant portion of the home's materials sourced from salvaged items, often acquired for minimal cost from places like a Santa Rosa Goodwill store. The backyard features a stream circulating water through the Paradiso Pond, which Carole considers her most significant work. The pond, a 4-foot-deep, rubber-lined creation, is landscaped with truckloads of rock and adorned with lilies and other water plants, evoking a Monet painting. On the western edge of the property, an outdoor fireplace, a table under a large tree, painted chairs, tiled tables, carved benches, tiny sculptures, clever mobiles, and painted fences contribute to the whimsical atmosphere. A curving dragon made of random ceramics weaves through the garden, intersected by brick pathways leading to a double-doored gateway to the neighbor's property. Inside, the whimsical aesthetic continues with furniture crafted from discarded wood and an assortment of found objects. Walls are accented with Carole's cursive writing and display her paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Recessed altars and mirrors decorated with colorful tiles are present throughout the interior. The flooring varies from room to room, incorporating area rugs and even a floor covered with squares of fabric and old photographs sealed with Varathane. The master bedroom features a custom-made headboard and Carole's handwriting on the walls, while her studio serves as her creative sanctuary. The Watanabes envision Chez La Vie as an "elder compound" where they can age gracefully amidst their beloved creations. They plan to host art openings in their spacious backyard, with a pizza oven available for guests. Banners of art, much of it created by children, will adorn patios and fences, transforming the home into an interactive gallery open to the public. #HomeTransformation #ArtisticHome #RanchHouseRenovation #SebastopolHomes #CreativeCouple #FoundObjectsArt #GardenDesign #SustainableDesign #SonomaHomes

The article details the renovation journey of Christine Bayles Kortsch and her husband, Daniel Kortsch, as they transformed their 1924 Craftsman bungalow in Denver's Congress Park neighborhood. The initial challenge with their 1,800-square-foot home was its traditional bungalow floorplan, characterized by a cramped, narrow kitchen at the back of the house. This layout presented several issues, including a significant lack of natural light, which was crucial for Christine's food photography, and a highly inconvenient back door placement that opened onto an L-shaped staircase, making grocery carrying difficult. A single-width door between the kitchen and dining room also created a constant point of congestion for their family of four, who frequently entertained guests. After years of attempting minor cosmetic fixes like painting dark cabinets white and updating living room furnishings, the couple realized these superficial changes were insufficient to address the fundamental problems of the dysfunctional layout. This realization prompted them to undertake a comprehensive kitchen remodel during the pandemic. For this significant project, they enlisted the expertise of Christine’s sister-in-law, Vivian Bayles, a Manhattan-based interior designer and architect, and local builder Jim Copeland of Copeland Craftworks. The core of the renovation involved a strategic overhaul of the floorplan. Instead of simply modifying the partition wall at the back of the kitchen, they removed it entirely. The small, unusable nook was transformed by replacing its window with a 10-light glass door leading to a new exterior deck. The area previously occupied by the nook now serves as a spacious landing for a new, straight staircase to the basement, significantly improving accessibility and flow. Furthermore, the narrow doorway connecting the dining room and kitchen was dramatically widened, creating a more open and integrated living space. Another key improvement was the removal of a hard-to-access, recessed pantry located behind the old kitchen, above the back stairs. This change allowed for the installation of a full-depth refrigerator, a high priority for Christine, aligning seamlessly with the new cabinetry and appliances. Storage capacity was also enhanced by extending the new cabinets to the ceiling, maximizing vertical space. Rick Lutz, a kitchen designer from Home Depot, assisted with the cabinet configuration, emphasizing efficiency within the existing footprint. To maintain the home's historic character while integrating modern functionality, crown molding was added throughout the kitchen, dining, and living room, sourced from Austin Hardwoods to match the period. For finishes, Christine prioritized texture and a sense of aged patina, moving beyond standard modern choices. She selected durable Super White dolomite for the countertops, which offered a neutral surface ideal for photography while adding a distinctive natural stone element. The backsplash features Liberty thin-brick Clé tile, inspired by early 20th-century New York City, chosen for its uneven, rough texture that introduces character. A notable design decision was to conceal the microwave in a custom cabinet beneath the countertop, avoiding its traditional placement above the range, and Daniel designed and built a custom plaster-and-white-oak hood. The dining area received an unobtrusive chandelier by the Light Factory, a refurbished wooden table, a custom-built bench by Daniel, and vintage 1960s Danish chairs, fostering a rustic, communal atmosphere. The renovation also integrated the kitchen's new aesthetic with the rest of the main floor by updating the living room's fireplace hearth with leftover dolomite and white-oak trim, tying it to the new white-oak floors and complementing the home's existing bold wallpaper. Christine emphasized that the project, constrained by footprint and budget, fostered creativity, resulting in a bright, efficient, and cohesive space that respects the home's history while meeting contemporary needs. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanBungalow #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DenverHomes #HistoricPreservation #FloorplanTransformation #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalRenovation

Architects Frank and Megan Lin, co-founders of Austin-based Co(X)ist Studio, undertook the renovation of their 1962 ranch-style home, aiming to modernize it for their lifestyle and showcase their firm's design capabilities. The original house, located in South Austin's Sherwood Oaks neighborhood, was characterized by its dim interior, compartmentalized layout, and lack of connection to the outdoors. The renovation involved opening up the floor plan, adding an extension, and constructing a spacious back porch, while also incorporating several reclaimed materials. A key feature of the redesigned space is the unobstructed living area, where a sliding glass wall facilitates a seamless transition from the dining room to the back porch. This porch also provides access to the guest room and the master bedroom. A deliberate cut-out in the porch's canopy accommodates the branches of a crepe myrtle tree, offering additional shade, which is particularly beneficial in the Texas climate. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes cross-ventilation and maximizes natural daylight, thereby reducing the home's electrical consumption. The architects implemented a 'Y' shaped split in the new addition, which effectively separates the master bedroom from the other bedrooms, ensuring greater privacy. This split also creates a corridor that channels more light into the interior, transforming a previously uninspired area into a vibrant space. Furthermore, the garage was converted into a studio office, serving as a functional workspace and a direct reflection of Co(X)ist Studio's architectural practice. This dedicated studio allows the architects to meet clients in a professional environment that embodies their design philosophy. The project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to modern living, balancing functionality with aesthetic improvements and environmental considerations. By addressing the original home's shortcomings, the Lins created a residence that is not only a comfortable live/work space but also a living portfolio for their firm. The renovation emphasizes natural light, outdoor connection, and efficient use of space, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices through the use of reclaimed materials. #RanchHomeRenovation #LiveWorkSpace #AustinArchitecture #CoXistStudio #ModernRenovation #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeTours

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

Mark and Mitzi Knust, a Houston couple, undertook a comprehensive renovation of their Galveston Bay vacation home to accommodate their expanding family, including grandchildren. Mark Knust's childhood memories of spending summers in his family's Galveston vacation home inspired a desire for his own children and grandchildren to share similar experiences. In 1985, the couple initially purchased a home in Pirates Cove with Mark’s brother, but later acquired a larger property in the same neighborhood to better suit their growing family. This home became a cherished place where their two sons, now 34 and 31, learned to fish and swim, and frequently hosted friends. The home faced significant damage in 2008 from Hurricane Ike’s storm surge, which destroyed the bottom level and led to looting. Despite this setback, the Knusts rebuilt and continued to host family and friends. By 2015, with the arrival of grandchildren, they recognized the need for an even larger space to comfortably host three generations and foster their shared love for water sports. After considering building a new home, they opted to purchase an existing property in Pirates Cove, confident that with the right professionals, they could transform it into their ideal family retreat. They enlisted Doug LeBoeuf of LeBoeuf Homes, their preferred builder, and interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. The renovation, which began in January 2016 and concluded in November of the same year, aimed for a more contemporary aesthetic with light colors and comfortable, casual furnishings. Given Mark's height of 6 feet 5 inches and their sons' similar stature (one being a 275-pound power lifter), the furniture needed to be sturdy and generously sized. The design also had to be sophisticated enough for semi-retired grandparents while durable enough for a messy grandchild who enjoyed spaghetti. The initial design challenges included yellow interior walls and dated, traditional furnishings. Flanigan's approach prioritized maximizing changes within a reasonable budget. A key transformation involved repainting the yellow walls white, often incorporating a shiplap treatment, to create a clean, fresh, coastal, and airy atmosphere. The color palette shifted to contemporary grays and earthy neutrals, accented with soft blue-green tones inspired by the ocean. Durability was a paramount concern, with nearly all furniture being new and upholstered in tough, indoor-outdoor fabrics to ensure the home was extremely livable for active grandchildren. The renovation also included a complete overhaul of the master bathroom and significant updates to the kitchen and other bathrooms. Major surface changes included refinishing the wood flooring from an orange-pine to a natural look. The chunky limestone fireplace was replaced with a concrete finish, shiplap, and a reclaimed wood mantel, with ceramic balls inside the fireplace becoming a favorite feature for Mark. Four-inch tiles on kitchen and bathroom counters were replaced with sheets of super-sturdy Neolith sintered stone. In the master bathroom, an oversized garden tub was replaced with a slimmer soaking tub, and Saltillo tile was swapped for wood-look porcelain tile in a dark taupe finish. Natural wood cabinets were stained brown and topped with gray-veined Neolith stone, mimicking Carrara marble without the maintenance. The finished design created a clean and flawless environment, with comfortable furniture and rooms perfectly suited to the Knusts and their family. One guest room was specifically designed for grandchildren with twin beds and matching trunks, and a sectional sofa on the second-floor landing provided additional sleeping space. The couple’s collaboration with Flanigan, despite initial hesitations from Mark on certain design elements like the ceramic fireplace balls and a large pendant light in the master bedroom, ultimately resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing home that met their intergenerational living needs. The home also incorporated sentimental elements, such as a collection of wildlife art and taxidermy fish mounts, which Flanigan’s team successfully integrated into the updated décor. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GalvestonBayHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalDecor #BeforeAndAfter #MarieFlaniganInteriors #LeBoeufHomes #DesignTransformation

This article details the interior design project undertaken by Lauren Wills of Fort Greene-based Wills Design Associates for a young couple's first home in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The couple, on the cusp of starting a family, acquired a three-bedroom brownstone floor-through apartment. Wills, a close friend of the couple, was tasked with furnishing and decorating the entire space from scratch, as the homeowners possessed only a king-size mattress and two flat-screen TVs upon moving in. The apartment itself was in excellent structural condition, featuring original moldings, tin ceilings, and a large vintage mirror, thus requiring minimal architectural alterations. The primary work involved installing an HVAC system, which necessitated opening up the hall ceiling, and addressing minor cosmetic needs like replacing missing baseboards and molding around one door. Beyond these adjustments, the project focused on cleaning, painting, and furnishing the space to create a fresh, comfortable, and easy-to-maintain environment suitable for a growing family. Wills, a Pratt Institute alumna with a BFA in interior design and prior experience with high-profile Manhattan designers, launched her own firm approximately a year and a half before this project. She managed the budget effectively, sourcing most furnishings from popular retailers like West Elm and CB2, complemented by items from online stores and vintage furniture sites like Chairish. The color palette for the main living areas utilized Benjamin Moore’s White Diamond for walls and Snow White for ceilings, chosen for its clean, fresh, and slightly gray-toned "invisible white" aesthetic, as specified by the client to avoid yellowish off-whites. The living room features a sectional sofa and TV console from West Elm, art from One Kings Lane, and a Verner Panton knockoff chair from Overstock. The dining area includes a distressed green cabinet from Chairish and a concrete composite dining table from CB2, which matches the living room's coffee table. Functional and aesthetic details include a cluster of circular mirrors near the entry to brighten the exposed brick, and ceiling lights from CB2 installed during the HVAC upgrade. In the master bedroom, Benjamin Moore’s Blacktop serves as a statement wall color, paired with a cane headboard from Serena and Lily and artwork from Pure Photo. A discreet bamboo cabinet hides electronics, and blackout shades from Home Depot provide light control without cords. The combo study/guest room is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Blue Danube, with a ceiling light from Jonathan Adler and a wall sculpture from One Kings Lane. An alcove was transformed into an office with a white laminate desk surface and stained-wood shelves. The existing bathroom received a splurge in the form of fish wallpaper from Cole & Sons, with the door painted in a coordinating Benjamin Moore Coral Gables pink. The overall design reflects a thoughtful balance of aesthetics, functionality, and budget-conscious sourcing, tailored to the clients' new phase of life. #InteriorDesign #ParkSlope #BrooklynLiving #FirstHome #WillsDesignAssociates #HomeRenovation #ModernAesthetics #BudgetFriendlyDesign #Brownstone

A couple residing in Long Beach, California, who had been renting their 1960s home for approximately five years, decided to purchase the property. With a baby on the way, the husband opted to trade in his sports car for a down payment. Following the acquisition, they enlisted the expertise of interior designer Natalie Myers, founder of Veneer Designs, to undertake significant renovations they had long envisioned. The primary focus of this renovation project was the kitchen. Upon her initial assessment, Myers observed that the kitchen, while likely contemporary in its original construction, appeared dated and somewhat "folksy" with a distinct mid-century aesthetic. The existing galley layout presented a constraint, preventing any expansion. Consequently, the design strategy centered on enhancing the brightness of the space. A key factor in managing the project budget was the decision to retain the current positions of most cabinets and appliances. Myers implemented several key updates to achieve the desired transformation. For the cabinetry, she adopted a modern interpretation of "tuxedo cabinets," which traditionally feature white upper and black lower units. Her design incorporated ash-wood cupboards for the upper sections, complemented by grayish-sage doors for the lower cabinets, a color closely matched by the backsplash tile. This color scheme was extended to a new pocket door separating the kitchen from a home office, adding visual interest and creating the illusion of higher ceilings. Another distinctive element introduced was the use of terrazzo for the countertops. Instead of the more common tile form, Myers specified terrazzo slabs, extending the material to wrap around the kitchen peninsula. This particular Alabaster Verde product from Concrete Collaborative was utilized efficiently, with remnant pieces from the custom-fabricated counters forming the peninsula. This feature not only provided an additional surface but also incorporated an opening with a stool and extra cabinetry, designed to accommodate the husband's mother and facilitate her involvement in kitchen activities. In terms of flooring, hardwood was selected over tile, primarily for its cost-effectiveness. Myers noted that hardwood offered significant savings in both material and installation costs compared to tile. Wide-plank boards from Stuga, featuring an ultra-matte sheen, were chosen to provide a natural aesthetic while offering durable protection against everyday wear and tear, particularly important with a new baby. The layout of appliances saw a minor yet impactful adjustment: the dishwasher was relocated to the opposite side of the sink. This modification created space for a recessed microwave and streamlined the post-dinner cleanup process. Myers highlighted the ergonomic benefit of having the dishwasher positioned to the right of the sink for right-handed individuals. A two-drawer dishwasher from Fisher & Paykel was installed, allowing the couple to run smaller, more frequent loads, a practical advantage for handling baby bottles. The backsplash presented a unique design challenge. Myers opted for a combination of Fireclay’s Dot Dash 7 tile and Field tile. While the 4x4-inch squares offered numerous layout possibilities, the wife, an artistic director, desired a dynamic pattern rather than a simple polka-dot arrangement. After exploring various iterations in AutoCAD, a design featuring half-circles and pill-like shapes was chosen and meticulously executed by the subcontractor. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the comprehensive renovation, equating its value to the sacrifice of the sports car. #KitchenRenovation #GalleyKitchen #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoCountertops #TuxedoCabinets #HardwoodFlooring #ApplianceLayout #BacksplashTile

Architect Anand Sheth, a Bay Area-based professional, embarked on a project to transform the outdoor space of friends who had recently relocated from Oakland to Los Angeles. Drawing on his memories of growing up in L.A. and spending considerable time in friends' backyards, Sheth envisioned an outdoor environment that celebrated the 'messiness, sandiness, and sweatiness' of life in Southern California, moving beyond a basic setup to create a sophisticated, multi-functional area. The clients, known for their hospitality, sought a versatile space suitable for large gatherings, intimate conversations with a single friend, or personal relaxation. Sheth's background in hospitality design, where he typically creates spaces conducive to gathering and serving as destinations, aligned well with their vision. The initial state of the home featured concrete extending from all side and back doors. Recognizing that the homeowners, who only possessed one car, did not require an extensive driveway leading to their garage (which they repurposed into a home gym), Sheth collaborated with landscape architect Anooshey Rahim, principal of Dune Hai. Together, they planned to convert the long stretch of land into a vibrant, plant-filled retreat that would also incorporate distinct zones for dining and lounging. A key aspect of the design philosophy was to integrate greenery thoughtfully, rather than treating plants as mere boundaries. Rahim's influence encouraged a shift from a traditional architectural perspective, which might use plants as buffers, to an approach that envisioned larger planters and 'rooms' for both plants and people. This led to the incorporation of various plant sizes and maturities, including fan palms, monkey flower, and silver feather grass. To emphasize the equal importance of human and plant spaces, exaggerated curves were carved into the cedar decking, allowing plants to occupy more prominent areas. This design choice was also influenced by the forms of Roberto Burle Marx's iconic rooftop gardens in Brazil. Visual consistency was achieved through the extensive use of slatted cedar wood for the gate, mailbox, steps, and fence, expertly installed by landscape contractor Matthew Gray. This material choice provided a unifying warm aesthetic, contrasting effectively with the cooler tones of the plant palette. Given the intense Los Angeles sun, shade sails were incorporated to provide essential coverage over the dining area and sofa during the day. The designers also selected durable outdoor furniture, such as woven ottomans from Shore, known for their UV-resistant, heatproof, waterproof, and easy-to-clean performance silicone cords. For the small patio off the primary bedroom, the remaining concrete was adorned with tiles from Concrete Collaborative, arranged in a striped, U-turn motif. This graphic tiling served to anchor the space visually, similar to a rug, but without creating a dust trap or tripping hazard. The exterior of the house also underwent a transformation. After observing a prevalence of dark-colored, newly renovated homes in the neighborhood, Sheth guided the clients toward a creamy white exterior with a sage green front door. This choice aimed for a more inviting and community-friendly aesthetic, rather than stark modernity. Furthermore, the cinder block divider along the sidewalk was removed, and the new fence was set back, opening up the front yard to the public and creating a 'free garden experience' for passersby, enhanced by additional plantings. This thoughtful approach contributed to a harmonious integration with the neighborhood while providing the homeowners with a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor sanctuary. #OutdoorSpaceDesign #ZenGarden #LandscapeArchitecture #CedarDecking #PlantIntegration #LADesign #HospitalityDesign #ShadeSails #ExteriorRenovation

Whitney Brown and Carlos Naude, founders of Working Holiday Studio, envisioned their 1960s home's exterior as a vibrant space for leisure, complementing its serene interior post-renovation. Carlos Naude, driven by a desire for multifaceted activities, aimed to incorporate various elements like a hot tub and a treehouse into their extensive hillside backyard. The renovation focused on maximizing fun and utility while preserving the original landscape. The couple opted for a jet-black facade for their home, maintaining consistency across the design. The primary challenge was to transform the expansive hillside into an oasis without overhauling the entire existing yard. A significant feature of the backyard renovation was the installation of an 8-foot-wide preassembled cedar-clad hot tub. This decision was a budget-friendly alternative to a costly in-ground swimming pool, which was beyond the couple's financial scope. The installation process presented several logistical hurdles, including the delivery vehicle sinking into the front yard and difficulty fitting the tub through the side yard. Despite these challenges, which resulted in a cracked driveway, Naude found the effort worthwhile, particularly for the convenience of transitioning between the soaking tub and a nearby firepit for s'mores. The article highlights the emphasis on creating a space for enjoyment and relaxation, even in the face of unexpected complications during construction. A childhood dream of Naude's was to build a treehouse, a vision he held since growing up in Mexico with limited outdoor space. Thirty years later, he finally actualized this dream for his 3-year-old son, designing a structure that was both safe for children and aesthetically pleasing for adults. The 'treehouse' frame, painted to match the house, features robust railings to prevent accidents, making it a secure play area. It also serves as a tranquil spot for Naude to unwind with a cocktail while overlooking the hills. The presence of a net swing further enhances its appeal as a playful yet relaxing haven. Naude specifically bought the property because of the tree, recognizing its potential for his long-held treehouse aspiration. The couple preferred a minimalist approach to landscaping, opting for a streamlined look rather than elaborate English-style wildflower gardens, which are currently popular. They undertook significant cleanup, removing all vegetation except for the existing trees. This choice was driven by a desire for low maintenance and to allow the natural beauty of the rolling hills to be the focal point, without the distraction of dense bushes and flowers. The backyard's design allows Naude to observe his son playing freely from the hot tub's built-in bench. The narrative concludes with Naude expressing optimism about the future memories to be created in their newly transformed backyard, emphasizing its potential as a cherished family space. #HomeRenovation #BackyardDesign #TreehouseConstruction #HotTubInstallation #LandscapeDesign #OutdoorLiving #DIYProjects #FamilySpace #MinimalistLandscaping

This article details the transformation of a previously outdated Park Slope condo into a vibrant, modern pied-à-terre for a couple. The project was undertaken by Studio Nato, a Brooklyn-based interior design firm, with a primary goal of enhancing brightness, reintroducing traditional architectural elements, expanding storage solutions, and significantly upgrading both the aesthetic and functionality of the kitchen and bathroom. The condo, located on the third floor of a vintage row house, had not seen significant updates since a developer's renovation two decades prior, resulting in an uninspired and impractical living space. Studio Nato's renovation involved several key interventions. Much of the existing recessed lighting, which contributed to a dull ambiance, was removed. New white oak flooring was installed throughout the apartment, complemented by new crown moldings and window sills to restore a sense of traditional elegance. A significant improvement was made to the long hall, where a series of disparate closet doors were streamlined. These were replaced with uniform painted MDF millwork that extends almost to the ceiling, wrapping around into the kitchen. This millwork conceals reorganized coat and linen storage, along with laundry facilities, creating a cohesive and minimalist look. Additionally, new bedroom doors and a re-envisioned bathroom door were installed, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Almost Black and fitted with new brass hardware. Creative solutions were applied to previously underutilized spaces. An alcove off the front room, often a challenge in row house apartments, was transformed into a functional reading nook featuring a new custom white oak bookcase. This space was furnished with vintage Danish armchairs and a copper end table/stool by designer Andrew Neyer, adding character and utility. The apartment's existing wood-burning fireplace, a positive feature, was also updated. Studio Nato addressed the issue of its brick wall absorbing natural light by wrapping the top half with Sheetrock and painting the bottom half white. A new wood surround was added, and the brick hearth was replaced with soapstone, matching the material used for the kitchen island. The kitchen, designed to be neat and compact, received custom cabinetry from South Carolina, painted white and featuring mortised edge pulls. The island is crafted from white oak with a waterfall soapstone countertop. The backsplash tiles were sourced from Clé, while lighting fixtures include Ambit pendant lights from Muuto. Bar stools from West Elm complete the kitchen's modern look. Space-saving appliances were chosen, such as a 30-inch-wide Liebherr refrigerator and separate cooktop and wall oven units. The long hall also saw an aesthetic upgrade with painted MDF and routed grooves for added texture, concealing ample storage. The main bedroom now features a dark-painted dado and gleaming sconces from Allied Maker. The bathroom's design is simple yet refined, featuring a custom vanity with Brizo wall-mounted faucets, white subway tiles, and matte black hex tiles from Clé on the floor. These comprehensive renovations by Studio Nato effectively revitalized the condo, making it a functional and aesthetically pleasing urban retreat for the couple. #ParkSlope #CondoRenovation #PiedATerre #StudioNato #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeRenovation #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation

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