How They Pulled It Off: A Terrace House Gets a Sustainable Glow-Up—With Help From Its Homeowners

This article details the comprehensive sustainable renovation of a 1953 midcentury home located outside Chicago. The residence, originally featured in Better Homes & Gardens as "The House You Asked For" and inspired by California Case Study architecture, was known for its vibrant built-ins, modern wall treatments, and indoor/outdoor living. Despite its strong aesthetic and good bones, designed by local architects Brooks Buderus and Gerald Siegwart, it suffered from significant energy inefficiency due to its postwar construction which had little regard for sustainability. A family of five, who initially rented and later purchased the three-bedroom H-shaped home, recognized its need for modernization. They engaged Tom Bassett-Dilley Architects, a firm renowned for passive and zero-energy buildings and experienced in updating midcentury designs. The family's extensive wish list aimed to preserve the home's midcentury essence while addressing aging electrical, HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and windows. Key aspirations included integrating solar panels, reclaiming wood, and incorporating a tornado-proof room. The architects implemented a strategy focused on enhancing energy efficiency, comfort, and safety without expanding the home's original footprint. Major upgrades included re-sloping the roof to improve drainage and reduce heat loss through the installation of tapered polyisocyanurate insulation. The building's envelope was significantly improved with a peel-and-stick air and water barrier (Henry Blueskin), continuous fiberboard insulation (Steico, a carbon-sequestering material), and new triple-glazed windows and patio doors (Alpen Zenith). Cellulose and wood fiberboard were utilized for cavity and exterior insulation, respectively, transforming the exterior into a robust and resilient enclosure while maintaining light and outdoor visual connections. To manage heating and cooling, an all-electric system with solar panels was installed, removing the home's gas infrastructure for full decarbonization. A crucial innovation was the addition of a “doghouse” – a raised roof area – which created space for new ductwork to accommodate the heat pump heating and cooling and ERV (energy recovery ventilator) systems. This doghouse design allowed for mechanical ducts to be centrally located, enabling tall clerestory windows to flood the rooms below with natural light, thanks to gracefully curved ceilings. The ERV system, sourced from Renewaire, was integral to improving indoor air quality by continuously exchanging stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air, regulating temperature and humidity, and reducing the HVAC system's load. Water heating was also updated with a Rheem heat pump unit. Interior reconfigurations optimized space usage, including relocating the main entry to the mudroom/side entry to expand the kitchen and reorganizing bedrooms and bathrooms for efficiency. A concrete block “safe room” was added to the bedroom wing for tornado safety, addressing specific regional concerns. These comprehensive deep energy upgrades resulted in a projected 93 percent reduction in the home's operational carbon footprint. The architects emphasized that addressing the thermal envelope—roof, walls, and windows—was the most significant factor in achieving energy reduction. Once the envelope was optimized, the integration of efficient electrical systems, HVAC, appliances, and solar panels completed the sustainability strategy, demonstrating that substantial environmental improvements are attainable through thoughtful design, even for older structures. #MidcenturyModern #SustainableArchitecture #EnergyEfficiency #HomeRenovation #ZeroEnergyBuilding #PassiveHouseDesign #ChicagoArchitecture #ArchitecturalUpgrade

The article highlights the journey of Kristin and Jason Nichols, a Sebastopol couple, who have meticulously transformed their 1980s home into one of the most sustainable residences in the nation. Their commitment to eco-conscious living began even before their marriage in 2017, stemming from a shared spiritual path and a desire to live harmoniously with nature. They reside on a compact homestead called Windhorse Orchard, featuring 50 fruit trees and a large garden, where they raise their two children, Eve and Ryo, in a lifestyle that prioritizes handmade experiences over modern gadgetry. For five years, the Nicholses have focused on making their home ultra-energy- and water-efficient, incorporating non-toxic fixtures and materials. This endeavor is particularly challenging due to the limited availability of such products. Their ambitious goal is to achieve certification under two of the world's most rigorous green building standards: the Passive House Institute and the Living Building Challenge. The Passive House certification emphasizes extremely low energy consumption and superior indoor air quality through measures like air tightness, thermal insulation, and mechanical ventilation. The Living Building Challenge, administered by the International Living Future Institute, promotes regenerative building practices across seven areas: place, water, energy, health and happiness, materials, equity, and beauty. The couple has completed the necessary work for both and is currently collecting data to prove compliance with the Living Building Challenge requirements. Geof Syphers from Sonoma Clean Power, an organization that has supported the Nicholses with information, assistance, and rebates, acknowledges the exceptional difficulty of meeting the Living Building Challenge standards, noting that few projects succeed due to material limitations. Jason Nichols, an ecological landscape designer, developed an interest in sustainable housing after observing student-built sustainable homes in Washington, D.C., in 2007. His move to California deepened his appreciation for local ecology and reinforced his belief that sustainability extends beyond human-centric views. Kristin, an engineer with experience in waste-to-energy conversion in Germany, readily embraced Jason's vision. Driven by concerns about climate change and environmental degradation, they sought an existing home for renovation rather than building new, deeming it more sustainable. After evaluating approximately 50 properties, they selected a 2,300-square-foot home on 3.5 acres, which, despite being larger than initially desired, offered a well, septic system, and ample land for their ambitious ecological goals. Kristin, who is pursuing an architect's license, has largely overseen the design aspects of the renovation, working within the home's original footprint, including an octagonal turret from the 1980s. The renovation efforts have included installing triple-pane windows, insulated doors, and non-toxic, compostable sheep's wool insulation to achieve an airtight structure that minimizes heating and cooling needs. They replaced the siding and roof with Zincalume Plus, a fire and termite-resistant material made from recycled content. Reclaimed, sustainably harvested wood was used for new decks. A greywater system recycles water for irrigation, and a vacuum-flush toilet significantly reduces water consumption. Their sustainable ethos pervades their daily life, from buying bulk dry goods to reduce packaging waste, refilling soap containers, using cloth diapers washed in an energy-efficient machine, and purchasing second-hand or natural-fiber clothing. The interior remodeling is ongoing, but they have already replaced a gas stove with an induction model and updated their refrigerator with an energy-efficient one. Leftover construction materials are repurposed for garden beds. They monitor indoor air quality using an Awair Element sensor, ensuring healthy carbon dioxide and VOC levels. While their budget was not minimal, the Nicholses contend that the slightly higher cost of sustainable materials is offset by significant energy savings—up to 90% compared to typical buildings—and increased product longevity. Rebates from Sonoma Clean Power helped finance energy-efficient appliances and upgrades. The home offers year-round comfort, requiring minimal heating in winter. The Nicholses aim to be community influencers, sharing their knowledge through an active website and open house tours. Kristin plans to specialize in designing sustainable homes and landscapes once licensed, advocating for a regenerative approach to living as a means to combat climate change and promote overall planetary health. #SustainableHome #GreenBuilding #PassiveHouse #LivingBuildingChallenge #EcoFriendlyLiving #HomeRenovation #Sebastopol #SonomaCounty #NetZero

This article details the transformation of a newly constructed Brooklyn townhouse into a warm, personalized, and comfortable family home with a mid-century modern aesthetic. The homeowners, who are lovers of the outdoors, sought to create an urban oasis that felt like an escape from the city, particularly benefiting from the property's quiet, tree-lined street and enclosed backyard. Interior designer Lucy Harris led the project, focusing on seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, incorporating super durable pieces suitable for a young child, and maintaining a light and bright color scheme. The entryway, designed to function as both an entrance and a mudroom, immediately sets an eclectic and welcoming tone with custom millwork for storage and a colorful tiled floor from Heath Ceramics, featuring bright blues and golds. Accessories such as a natural-feeling leather mail/key holder from Lostine and a simple half-moon mirror from Bower contribute to the unique character. In the kitchen, which was recently installed in the new-build, minor but impactful changes were made to integrate it into the home's overall aesthetic. Rattan counter stools from Stahl and Band introduced natural materials, while green pendants from In Common With tied in with the dining area's color scheme. The dining nook is highlighted as one of the most dramatic alterations, featuring custom banquette seating upholstered in a deep green wool boucle fabric from Tibor, complementing the leafy street view. A brass fixture from Apparatus adds texture, and a custom-sized solid wood table from Yucca Stuff, along with vintage-inspired Tre 3 chairs by Angelo Mangiarotti, complete the inviting space. The living room was conceived as a casual, peaceful, and fresh area, utilizing a serene palette with vibrant earthy accents. It showcases a colorful area rug by Christopher Farr, an original Bauhaus design, and a soft sofa from Poiat, contrasting with an organic-shaped coffee table in the style of Paul Frankl. An adjacent reading area in the living room features a leather Ojai chair from Lawson Fenning, reflecting the mid-century modern influence throughout the house. A Miniforms Soda glass side table adds material contrast, and custom millwork displays the homeowner’s vintage objects, infusing personality into the new construction. The connection between indoor and outdoor living is emphasized through large houseplants and green color palettes inside, and an inviting balcony dining space leading to a landscaped backyard, designed by Michael Cafiero. The outdoor area includes Fermob Luxembourg chairs and a customized Croft House dining table, suitable for the terrace. The family room introduces a different palette with deep blues and rich rusty oranges, creating an inviting atmosphere with mixed patterns. A custom rug collaboration between Lucy Harris and Carini, a wool and leather ottoman, and a comfortable Albarese sofa by DePadova define the space. A home gym adjacent to an outdoor terrace benefits from a leafy view. The primary bedroom combines pastel colors with vibrant accents for a serene yet interesting backdrop, featuring a walnut nightstand by Hedge House, a scalloped sconce by Nickey Kehoe, and a colorful quilt by Thompson Street Studio. Subtle patterned wallpaper by Rebecca Atwood and Caroline Z Hurley drapes add texture and quirkiness. For the nursery, a playful desert theme was chosen, reflecting the owners' love for hiking. Geometric patterns, a neutral cactus wallpaper, and terracotta accents, including a Kartell Componibili, create a vibrant yet sophisticated space. The guest bedroom on the fourth floor extends the natural beige, orange, and brown palette, with a second walnut nightstand from Hedge House and a rug from Nordic Knots, complemented by green and blue accents in the Room & Board bed and Rebecca Atwood drapery. This comprehensive redesign transforms the builder's spec townhouse into a soulful city oasis with distinctive character and style. #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #BrooklynTownhouse #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #OutdoorLiving #CustomDesign #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a nearly 200-year-old Federal-style farmhouse located in Sharon, Connecticut. The property, which had remained unsold for years due to its dilapidated condition, eventually found new owners who recognized its inherent potential. Architect Rafe Churchill was enlisted to undertake a historically sensitive renovation, prioritizing the preservation of the home's original architectural integrity. Initially, discussions included adding a significant extension, but this idea was ultimately abandoned in favor of maintaining the existing footprint. Approximately half of the structure required gutting, and Churchill’s approach focused on repairs using traditional materials whenever feasible. Key structural and exterior envelope improvements included a new roof, a partial chimney, reinforced floor joists, and repairs to the wood clapboard siding and many original windows. Windows beyond repair were replaced with new Marvin windows, all equipped with triple-track storm windows. The interior spaces were reconfigured and updated while honoring the home’s historical context. The dining room was transformed into a rich blue library, featuring new pocket doors designed to appear original and custom-milled molding that matches existing trim throughout the house. Original wood floors in the library, dining room, front hall, and some bedrooms were meticulously saved and refurbished. Interior designer Heide Hendricks contributed a vintage orange sofa and designed the steel-frame ottoman and drapery, adding modern touches. The dining room, formerly a parlor, now showcases a new soapstone fireplace surround and mantel designed by Churchill. A unique artistic element in this room is the custom wallpaper, created by the homeowner, an artist, from scans of the town’s handwritten 1820 U.S. Census, printed on heavy paper and adhered to the walls. The living room, bright and airy, incorporates the homeowners' midcentury modern furniture. New southern yellow pine floors in this area and the kitchen were stained dark to seamlessly blend with the older flooring. The original fireplace remains a focal point, adorned with antique candlesticks. The kitchen, located at the rear of the house, retained its original position but underwent a significant reconfiguration. A previously existing large pantry and staircase, which had isolated the kitchen, were removed to maximize space for cabinets and counters and improve flow to the living room. The kitchen’s notably low ceiling was also raised to create a more open atmosphere. Modern elements are thoughtfully integrated, such as an LED chandelier chosen for the kitchen table due to its contemporary aesthetic and transparency, allowing views to the outside. The dining table in the kitchen is a custom piece by furniture designer Seth Churchill, the architect’s brother. Upstairs, the original wood flooring continues in the hallway and bedrooms. All doors were refitted, and their hardware repaired, with some trim components added to match existing historical details. A guest bedroom, situated in the rear addition above the kitchen, features a lower ceiling compared to the main house. An original structural wood beam is visible, adding character. Furnishings in this room were repurposed from the homeowners’ previous residence, and Hendricks resized drapery panels. Wood planks from the guest bedroom were used to repair flooring in the master bedroom, leading to the new pine flooring in the guest room being painted, a choice the architect noted as desirable in older homes, especially on upper floors. #FarmhouseRenovation #HistoricHome #FederalStyle #ArchitecturalPreservation #InteriorDesign #ConnecticutHomes #HomeRestoration #RafeChurchill #HeideHendricks

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

Laura Walker Baird, an interior designer with a background in dealing antiques, and her husband, Paul Baird, a rug expert, are the co-owners of Verde Home, a well-known establishment on the Westside of Atlanta for custom rugs and Farrow & Ball paint. Their home in Morningside, described as a “groovy ranch,” serves as a testament to their combined expertise, featuring a blend of new, old, custom, and shoppable items, reflecting their professional philosophy of stocking what they personally like and would incorporate into their own living space. The Bairds undertook several architectural modifications to enhance their 1950s ranch. Instead of a major addition, they created more space by extending interior walls and vaulting the living room ceiling, aligning with the original architectural style. They also expanded the master bedroom by incorporating a former porch and cantilevered the master bathroom, aiming to create a sense of being immersed in nature, overlooking Peachtree Creek. This effect was further amplified by using Farrow & Ball “Studio Green” paint on the walls and Farrow & Ball “Tourbillon” wallpaper on the ceiling, complemented by artwork from Roxane Hollosi of Kai Lin Art. Their home showcases Verde Home's signature custom creations, particularly their graphic and modern rugs, which are strategically placed to add visual interest throughout the house. Color choices play a significant role in defining the home's ambiance. Laura utilized Farrow & Ball’s “Bancha,” a rich olive green, in the dining room, “Cord” in the hallway, and “Studio Green” in the master bedroom, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to color palettes. The kitchen, rather than being completely overhauled, retained its original wooden cabinets, which were updated with Sherwin-Williams “Mallard Green” paint. The existing Corian countertop was also kept, with Laura noting its durability and resurgence in popularity. Anthropologie hardware, new appliances, and a marble slab from Marmi Stone on the central counter were added. A Verde Home rug further personalizes the space, and the family dachshund, Blubelle, is pictured playfully peeking around a corner. Functionality and comfort are priorities, evident in the choice of couches designed for both sitting and sleeping, sourced from American Leather, which offers a range of furniture from sleeper sofas to recliners. A barn door, gilded with wallpaper, was installed in the hallway leading to the bedrooms to enhance privacy, and a vintage bench, acquired through a trade with a friend, adds to the home's unique character. The exterior received a fresh update with a coat of gray paint over the brick and a vibrant front door in Farrow & Ball “Charlotte’s Locks” to boost curb appeal. In one of the bathrooms, Laura selected the Style Library “Cranes in Flight” wallpaper from Grizzel & Mann to harmonize with the natural views outside. This choice was intended to create a soothing atmosphere, thus avoiding overly colorful elements. The bathroom also features tiles from Moda Floors & Interiors, mirrors from Rejuvenation, a light fixture from Currey & Co., and cabinets by Timberland Cabinets. Laura’s extensive collection of antiques from her early career, such as a French oak armoire and a teak Balinese console, are integrated throughout the home, contributing to an organic aesthetic. These pieces, along with items like Verde Home's custom Marbled V Rug, Farrow & Ball “Lotus wallpaper,” and Selamat Designs Nopales pendant, exemplify the blend of unique and commercially available items that define the Bairds’ home. These products, along with design advice, are available at Verde Home. #VerdeHome #MorningsideAtlanta #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CustomRugs #FarrowAndBall #ArchitecturalRenovation #AntiqueIntegration #RanchHomeDesign

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

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

The article details the transformation of a historic Brooklyn townhouse into a Passive House certified home, undertaken by Ingui Architecture for former Etsy CEO Chad Dickerson and his family. Despite the seemingly healthy exterior, the four-story brick house suffered from significant structural and environmental issues, including air and water leaks, uneven floors, cracks, high energy costs, and freezing in winter. The renovation focused on extensive, yet largely invisible, improvements to enhance energy efficiency, air quality, and overall livability. Ingui Architecture's approach involved a comprehensive overhaul. The roof was entirely removed, repaired, and re-insulated using exterior rigid foam boards and dense-pack cellulose, with the only visible change being large skylights that now flood the central stairway with natural light. The walls underwent a meticulous reconstruction, including rebuilding and sealing crumbling brick masonry, installing triple-pane windows, and adding dense-pack cellulose and mineral wool insulation. Thermal bridges were eliminated by holding jambs off the wall and replacing galvanized steel tiebacks with wooden joists, preventing heat loss and improving the building's envelope integrity. Further structural modifications included adding a multistory extension at the back of the house and lowering the cellar's concrete slab by three feet, which was then insulated with rigid foam. These changes contributed to a quiet and serene interior environment, characterized by larger thresholds, free-flowing plans, and expansive windows that maximize natural light. The home successfully achieved Passive House certification, signifying its exceptional energy performance and airtightness. Michael Ingui, president of Ingui Architecture, noted that this high level of efficiency opened the door for further sustainable choices, such as transitioning to an all-electric system. Dickerson's family embraced the all-electric lifestyle, incorporating an induction range, an electric ERV filtering system for fresh air, a heat-pump water heater and dryer, and a VRF HVAC system. The project also prioritized the use of low-VOC materials and mostly water-based paints. Dickerson highlighted the significant improvements in his family's health and well-being, observing fewer illnesses and pristine indoor air quality even during the Canadian wildfire smoke event in the summer of 2023. He regularly monitors air quality and energy data, emphasizing the tangible benefits of the renovation. Beyond the sustainable upgrades, the renovation also introduced unique features, such as transforming the cellar into a speakeasy-style music venue accessible via a swinging bookcase. This space features a moody ambiance with dark-gray walls, a timber bar, accent lighting, and exposed brick and wood surfaces, serving as an informal stage area. Michael Ingui, who also founded the Passive House Accelerator, stressed the importance of close client collaboration, meeting weekly with Dickerson to fine-tune details. Dickerson expressed that the decision to pursue Passive House certification was straightforward given the necessity of a gut renovation, finding the cost and time difference from a conventional renovation negligible, while the positive impact on his family's quality of life was profound. #PassiveHouse #Renovation #SustainableArchitecture #InguiArchitecture #Brooklyn #EnergyEfficiency #AirQuality #HistoricPreservation #NetZero

Emma and Graeme undertook a significant renovation of their 1780-built, four-bedroom detached cottage in Hucknall, Nottingham, transforming it into a modern, open-plan family home with a Scandi-inspired aesthetic. The property, though well-maintained, was dated, featuring numerous small, dark rooms, dusky pink carpets, patterned curtains, and a dark pine kitchen. The couple, with Emma being an interior stylist and Graeme skilled in DIY, decided to create a large open-plan kitchen, diner, and living space by knocking down walls, aiming to complete the major work before their first child arrived. The total project cost was £72,000. The renovation began with the demolition of internal walls to merge four smaller rooms into one expansive area. Graeme utilized a Room Sketcher app to plan the layout, and a builder friend assisted with wall removal and steel beam installation. Emma, inspired by a high-end kitchen design, achieved a similar look on a budget by collaborating with a local company, Inspirational Interiors. They opted for white Shaker-style units with a blue island, incorporating a custom double larder from what was intended to be a boiler box-in, and a built-in microwave in the island to maximize counter space. The dining area features a bespoke reclaimed wood table, replicating a Pinterest design, complemented by rattan pendant lights and Camaro LVT flooring with a wood finish and grey/blue tint. The staircase, initially problematic after wall removal, was custom-built by Graeme using timber for simple spindles, costing only £50, instead of expensive glass that would show fingerprints. The living room was designed with a darker palette, using Farrow & Ball's 'Down Pipe' to create a more formal, luxurious evening atmosphere. Graeme updated the fireplace with reclaimed brick, a wood mantle, and York stone, giving it a high-end look on a budget. Efforts to panel the room were eventually replaced by gloss paint on the walls to give the illusion of wood, and the dark wood window frames were painted white to brighten the space. In the master bedroom, Graeme installed timber panelling on the back wall, painted in 'Inchyra Blue,' while the bathroom, initially featuring a dated corner bath, was upgraded with a navy blue roll-top bath and a custom-made vanity unit crafted by the same furniture maker who built the dining table. The patterned floor tiles in the bathroom served as a focal point, allowing the rest of the decor to remain simple. For their daughter Arla's nursery, the couple attempted a painted wooden floor, which Graeme sanded extensively and filled gaps with rope, though in hindsight, Emma suggested carpet for practicality. Future plans for the property include renovating the rear garden, converting an outbuilding into an office and gym, and eventually transforming the double garage into a guest annexe, reflecting their long-term vision for the home. The project highlights how DIY skills, strategic planning, and resourceful sourcing can achieve a high-quality renovation at a reduced cost, illustrating effective ways to transform a dated property into a functional and aesthetically pleasing open-plan living space. #HomeRenovation #DIYProjects #OpenPlanLiving #BudgetRenovation #InteriorStyling #ScandiDesign #FamilyHome #CostSavingTips #PropertyTransformation

This article details how a couple, Stephanie and her partner, successfully installed a DIY fabric skylight in their home for under $1,500, transforming their living space with a luxurious and bright aesthetic typically associated with much higher costs. The inspiration for this project stemmed from a visit to Hafary’s showroom, where a large skylight installation captured their imagination. Recognizing that traditional skylight systems could be prohibitively expensive, often exceeding a thousand dollars, they sought a more affordable alternative. The couple discovered a fabric skylight available on Taobao for a mere $70. This significantly reduced the material cost compared to local specialized fabric skylight installers, who quoted upwards of $750 for the skylight alone, excluding the necessary modifications to the ceiling. The overall project cost, including the Taobao fabric skylight, a 1.6m cove false ceiling built by a contractor ($1,380), smart LED strips ($40), Taobao shipping ($10), and electrical wiring and installation (approximately $80 per lighting point), totaled just under $1,500. This stark contrast in cost highlights the substantial savings achieved through their DIY approach. The DIY process involved several key steps. First, a false ceiling contractor constructed a cove structure with a 1.6m circular recess designed to accommodate the skylight. Stephanie advised future DIYers to plan the false ceiling design early and ensure electricians and ceiling contractors are aware of the skylight integration to allow for adequate space and wiring access. Next, an electrician prepared the power points and wiring for the lights. The couple opted for smart LED strips for their versatility, allowing them to adjust lighting tones to suit different moods. A significant challenge during this phase was coordinating between the false ceiling contractors and the electricians, as these are typically separate trades unfamiliar with each other's specific requirements for such a project. The homeowners had to act as intermediaries to ensure seamless alignment. Finally, the fabric and circular aluminum skylight frame, sourced from Taobao, arrived. The frame was designed to be reassembled on-site, as it was split into three parts for shipping. During installation, a sizing discrepancy of 5cm was noted between the fabric and the recessed frame. However, this was easily rectified through trimming and adjustment. Stephanie emphasized the importance of precise measurements when ordering, suggesting that ordering a slightly larger frame that can be trimmed down is a safer approach than dealing with an undersized one. Despite the initial intimidation, Stephanie confirmed that the DIY project was manageable with careful planning and coordination. The finished 1.6m-wide skylight successfully created an illusion of a higher ceiling and flooded the dining area with adjustable light, delivering a sophisticated aesthetic without the premium price tag. The project exemplifies how luxury home features can be achieved affordably through innovative DIY solutions, proving to be a worthwhile investment for the homeowners. #DIYHomeRenovation #SkylightInstallation #AffordableHomeDecor #TaobaoFinds #HomeImprovement #BudgetRenovation #SmartLighting #InteriorDesign #FalseCeiling

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

This article describes a unique sustainable home designed by Breathe Architecture, situated on the banks of Edgars Creek in Melbourne. The residence is notable for its organic integration into the natural environment, aiming to minimize disturbance to existing plant life and land formations. The design philosophy behind the house emphasizes a deep connection to nature, allowing homeowners to experience both indoor and outdoor living simultaneously. The house's architectural layout is structured around a central brise soleil, which functions as the spine, connecting three distinct pavilions dedicated to sleeping, living, and bathing. These pavilions are strategically arranged around a central courtyard. The exterior cladding of each pavilion utilizes raw ironbark, chosen to help the structure blend seamlessly with the surrounding ironbark trees. Inside, the home features recycled Tasmanian oak timber flooring, further highlighting its commitment to sustainable and natural materials. Madeline Sewall, an Associate at Breathe Architecture, explains that the landscape design was intentionally kept simple, reflecting the native environment by using mulch and indigenous plants. This approach ensures that the house's immediate surroundings remain consistent with the broader natural setting of Edgars Creek. The brise soleil on the western side of the house plays a crucial role in regulating the internal environment by providing shade and ventilation. Constructed from grey ironbark posts and incorporating sliding ironbark doors, this feature creates a micro-environment that adapts to changes in sunlight and weather throughout the year. The inner walls of the brise soleil are adorned with tree fern, lomandra grass, and bird's nest fern, enhancing the natural aesthetic and ecological integration. The property also features a rammed-earth wall on its south side, which serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. This wall shields the house and visually echoes the colors and textures of the nearby sandstone cliffs along Edgars Creek. The garden design blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, with elements like a zen garden, an in-ground fire pit in the courtyard, and a vegetable garden that extends around the house's perimeter. The client's primary objective for the home was to achieve an intimate connection with nature and foster a lifestyle that operates in harmony with the ecosystem, rather than dominating it. The north facade of the house, which encompasses the living, dining, and kitchen areas, benefits from passive solar orientation. This design choice allows sunlight to naturally penetrate these spaces, contributing to temperature stability and overall thermal performance, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. The architectural and landscape decisions collectively illustrate a comprehensive approach to sustainable living, emphasizing material sustainability through the use of recycled and locally sourced materials. #SustainableArchitecture #EcoFriendlyHome #MelbourneArchitecture #BreatheArchitecture #NaturalLiving #GreenBuilding #NativeLandscaping #TimberConstruction

A two-decade-old Hilltop property, despite its spacious floor plan and proximity to local parks, presented an aesthetic challenge for its new owners. The house, initially characterized by traditional design elements such as sweeping staircases with turned-wood balusters, red-oak-paneled libraries, shimmering chandeliers, arched windows, ornately beaded and beveled cabinetry, and extensive crown molding, was deemed to have a "cupcake-style detailing" that did not align with the family's desire for a softer, calmer, and more welcoming style. To address this, the owners enlisted the expertise of Robin Bryant, lead designer at Factor Design Build, and interior designer Beth Armijo, to undertake a comprehensive aesthetic overhaul. Bryant meticulously preserved the home's structural integrity, retaining architectural features like the arched picture windows, paneled walls, and coffered ceilings. However, she introduced contemporary elements to modernize the space. This included installing sleek new fireplaces and twin sets of steel-framed sliding glass doors in the family room to enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity. The powder room received a bold update with hexagonal tiles on floors and walls, transitioning into a vibrant botanical-print wall covering. The main staircase was transformed by replacing traditional spindles and newel posts with modern metal balusters. _The kitchen, in particular, underwent a significant transformation from its early-aughts appearance. Bryant replaced stainless-steel appliances, a glass mosaic backsplash, and abundant golden oak cabinetry with whitewashed white-oak slab cabinet doors and a backsplash of taupe, ribbed glass tile. A streamlined plaster hood and a modern, folding-panel window were added to one wall, opening to the outdoor dining area. An adjacent wall featured floor-to-ceiling cabinetry with bronze-tinted glass cupboards in aluminum frames, providing an industrial yet sophisticated touch. Matte-white quartz perimeter countertops completed the kitchen's refined backdrop. The centerpiece of the kitchen became a massive slab of Blue Marine quartzite for the island, which introduced a dynamic color palette of robin’s egg blue and gold. These colors were then strategically incorporated throughout the house by Armijo. For instance, a newly created intimate sitting room adjacent to the main bedroom was adorned with a botanical-print wall covering in pale blue and green hues, which extended into the main bedroom's textiles and art. The dining room saw chairs upholstered in smoky blue and vibrant chartreuse, contrasting with warm white walls and trim. The study was dramatically updated with a coat of blackened-teal paint on its paneled walls and coffered ceiling, and the French doors were painted a fresh citron color. Armijo’s intention was to merge traditional structural elements with modern finishes and furniture to achieve a timeless European aesthetic. The selection of new furnishings reflected the homeowners' adventurous spirit, featuring sculptural side tables and playful chandeliers. A curved living room sofa and rounded swivel chairs were chosen to soften the home's rigid formality. Armijo also emphasized the use of diverse textures, incorporating hearty wool rugs, soft sheer and linen draperies, chunky chenilles, wool bouclés, and plush velvets. The design focused on texture and color rather than excessive pattern, drawing visual interest from the architecture's geometries and the furniture's curves. This collaborative effort between Bryant and Armijo successfully transformed the Hilltop home into a vibrant, modern, and welcoming space that reflects the owners' personality and willingness to embrace innovative design. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #ModernRenovation #HilltopHome #CustomFurniture #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalPreservation #TexturalElements

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