Atlanta Designer Beth Webb Creates a Tiny Cottage That Lives Large on Brays Island

Ted Kennedy Watson, a Washington-based style expert, author, lifestyle blogger, and proprietor of Watson Kennedy stores, owns a 650-square-foot Vashon Island getaway in Puget Sound with his husband, Ted Sive. The couple named their retreat “WestWard” to personalize the space, a practice Ted highly recommends for any dwelling. Upon purchasing the property, it was in disrepair, characterized by dark interiors and an absence of appealing aesthetics. The couple decided to preserve the existing Americana theme, prompted by a 35-foot flagpole on the property and the home's rich red exterior. The name “WestWard” is subtly integrated into the home's decor, appearing both inside and out, symbolized by a pair of 'W's. To brighten the interior, French doors were installed, significantly increasing natural light. All dark, knotty pine surfaces were painted a crisp white, serving as a neutral backdrop for the red, white, and blue Americana accents. The living room features a sofa and chairs upholstered in ticking stripe fabric, with reversible cushions showcasing a red stripe. French dish towels were ingeniously repurposed to create a slipcover for the ottoman, showcasing creative solutions for furnishing a small space. The home also integrates various collections, such as an assortment of artwork above a red desk painted with stars and stripes. Storage is maximized through functional displays, exemplified by McCoy pottery on bookshelves, which doubles as hidden storage for small items like matches, old birds' nests, keys, and a wallet. The kitchen, designed for two cooking enthusiasts, balances functionality with style. It features stainless steel countertops and open upper shelving for easy access and display of kitchenware. A key element is a butcher-block-topped rolling island, which serves multiple purposes, from a prep station by the sink to a mobile bar on the deck. Creative storage solutions extend to a collection of jam jars, repurposed to store various household items like nuts, spices, and cough drops, highlighting the concept that anything can become a collection. The bedroom continues the nautical theme with seafaring flags, anchor pillows, and vintage lockers used as nightstands. Ted also created a sleeping porch, an outdoor bed in a covered area, ideal for enjoying the outdoors even in the rain. For waterside dining, Ted enjoys mixing vintage patterns for tableware, encouraging the use of mismatched silverware, plates, glasses, and napkins. Unique tabletop decor includes a collection of vintage pool balls, specifically those with the number 11, and natural elements like hydrangea leaves used as place cards. An adjacent tree house features a wall adorned with pages from vintage maritime and bird-watching books, an artistic touch by Amy Duncan that has withstood the elements over time. Despite the home's small footprint, various distinct areas like the downstairs landing, where Ted, Ted Sive, and their schnauzer Bailey relax, contribute to a feeling of spaciousness, ensuring the couple never feels constrained by the size of their home. #TinyHome #PugetSound #VashonIsland #AmericanaDecor #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CreativeStorage #NauticalTheme

This article explores the charming Lydia cottage located on Nantucket’s Old North Wharf, a 343-square-foot former fish shanty that now serves as a beloved summer retreat. The cottage's exterior is characterized by a white picket fence adorned with hydrangeas, leading to a powder blue Dutch door, creating an inviting summer aesthetic. Situated steps away from the harborside town and offering views of Nantucket Sound, the cottage embodies easy summer living. Its interior is featured in the new book, "Nantucket Looms: A Legacy of Style," by Nantucket Looms, a retail store and design studio known for its handwoven textiles and East Coast style. The Lydia cottage, named after a whaling ship, dates back to the 1870s, originally built to replace structures lost in the Great Fire of 1846. These shanties were later converted into artist studios, summer cottages, and picnic houses in the early twentieth century. Old North Wharf is unique as the only residential and privately owned wharf among Nantucket’s five wharves. The cottage’s design elements reflect its rich history and nautical surroundings, including a haint blue port of entry, latch windows, and a paint-splattered floor—a nod to early 1900s Yankee ingenuity and classic enamelware. Vintage Nantucket Looms pieces, such as a tote bag, a CPO jacket, and an American flag embellished with scallop shells by Master Weaver Rebecca Jusko Peraner, are thoughtfully integrated into the decor. The interior design emphasizes comfort and coastal charm. The living room features a Malawi barrel cane chair and a sofa upholstered in linen pinstripe fabric, complemented by denim Belgian linen fringe pillows, a mandala-inspired hand-blocked lumbar pillow, and a handwoven cashmere throw in a dune hue. A highly sought-after Red Sail painting by Robert Stark Jr., an artist who previously had a studio on Old North Wharf, adds artistic flair. The cottage also boasts original awning windows, allowing fresh air even during rain, and a custom handwoven sisal rug. A rustic teak bowl on the coffee table holds antique glove spreaders, a fish-shaped comb, and old clothespins, alongside a dory model that mirrors Stark's painting. A classic striped Nantucket Looms cotton sweater and indigo apron further enhance the nautical theme. The ship’s galley-style kitchen displays island curiosities, including a pennant and an old Nantucket Wharf Rat Club mug, while a ship’s light illuminates the space, reinforcing its maritime connection. The cottage's addition features a modern chair beneath a haint blue ceiling, designed to be secured during stormy weather. The wall paint, a soft white hue, was specifically chosen to reflect the changing light and colors of the water and sky. Indoor-outdoor teak stools with woven seat covers accompany a weathered-pine console that serves as a snack table and offers additional storage. An adjacent deck provides an ideal spot for dining and observing the vibrant harbor life, encapsulating the relaxed summer atmosphere. The article also briefly mentions the nearby Wharf Rat Club, established in 1927 and officially named in 1971 after the Grateful Dead song. This club, known for its mysterious management and the requirement of telling a good story for entry, highlights the unique social fabric of Nantucket’s wharf community. Overall, the Lydia cottage is presented as a quintessential example of Nantucket's enduring charm, blending historical preservation with comfortable, stylish living, as showcased in the Nantucket Looms book. #NantucketCottage #TinyHomeLiving #CoastalDesign #NantucketLooms #HomeDecor #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #WharfLiving

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

A couple from New York City, seeking a second home for multi-generational family gatherings, discovered a turn-of-the-20th-century Colonial cottage in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. The property, located on the scenic Saybrook Point peninsula within the North Cove Historic District, was appealing due to its preservation of maritime architecture and its unique position between the North Cove and the Connecticut River, earning it the name "Point of View." The wife, having been particularly impressed by the blue-and-white sitting room of a previously sought-after rural Connecticut home, recognized the need for an aesthetic overhaul for their new purchase. The existing interiors of the Old Saybrook cottage, characterized by dark colors like burgundy and yellow, did not align with its new role as a family-oriented summer retreat. She enlisted interior designer Jenny Wolf, whose work she had admired, to transform the space. Wolf, known for her ability to understand clients' lifestyles and her shop The Huntress, connected with the homeowners' appreciation for antiques, classic fabric patterns, and a casual yet sophisticated style. The design objective was to create a fresher, more transitional look and update the color palette while maintaining the historical integrity of the home through decorative changes. Wolf aimed to integrate the surrounding waterfront landscape into the interiors, using it as a primary source of inspiration for the design scheme. In the living room, for instance, Wolf painted the original paneled walls in a soft white with subtle gray undertones (Shadow White by Farrow & Ball) to brighten the space and emphasize the fireplace. The black-painted bricks of the fireplace were restored to their natural finish, and a stately mantel was installed to showcase the homeowners' antique ship, a direct reference to the town's maritime heritage. The mantel's dusky blue color (Philipsburg Blue by Benjamin Moore) was chosen to complement custom linen English roll arm sofas and to blend with the exterior water views visible from the opposing wall of windows. Eggshell tassel trim was added to the sofas to enhance their depth. Similarly, the sun-laden sitting room's design was heavily influenced by the scenic landscape. Wolf reinterpreted the blue-and-white palette that had initially captivated her client, opting for a light and airy ambiance. Dark burgundy wicker furniture, previously in the room, was replaced. The design deliberately avoided fussy window treatments to highlight the outdoor views. A Southern-inspired haint blue ceiling was introduced to balance a hand-painted checkerboard floor. Wolf employed playful fabrics, using a leading print complemented by ticking stripes and checks in each room to create a less formal atmosphere. Beyond the primary living areas, the designer ensured the home could accommodate large family gatherings by designing guest rooms with multiple beds or sleeper sofas, facilitating new memories for the homeowners' children and grandchildren by the water. #CoastalCottage #InteriorDesign #JennyWolf #OldSaybrook #MaritimeHistory #HomeDecor #ConnecticutHomes #FamilyHome #TransitionalDesign

Allyson and Paul Riser, who annually vacation along Highway 30A in Seaside, Florida, embarked on a project to build a family retreat on a narrow, challenging lot in the heart of Seaside. Initially skeptical of the neglected strip of land, which they mistook for overflow parking, the Risers were ultimately convinced by its unparalleled location—catty-corner from Seaside’s town square and a short walk from the beach, offering wide views of the Gulf of Mexico. This prime location was a critical requirement for their large family, consisting of four grown children and a daughter-in-law. To overcome the constraints of the unusual lot size and accommodate their family's needs, the Risers enlisted Seaside architect Ty Nunn and Birmingham interior designer Fran Keenan. Their primary objective was to create sufficient bedrooms and gathering spaces, while Allyson also sought to infuse the new Florida build with the character and timelessness found in the old coastal homes of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Nunn designed a three-story house, one room deep and three rooms wide, with the kitchen and main living area located on the top floor to maximize the exceptional views. Keenan faced the challenge of incorporating the Lowcountry aesthetic, which often features large, low-slung roofs, into a tall three-level structure. A trip to Paris provided an unconventional solution: installing large, pop-out windows in the roof to flood the third-floor living area with natural light, creating a bright and airy space that became the focal point of the home. Inside, Keenan and her colleague Sara Walker curated an interior that reflected the surrounding landscape without resorting to overt beach-themed decor. The color palette, inspired by the blues and greens of the Gulf, features grayish blues, whites, muted turquoise, and faded aqua, fostering a sense of peace and serenity. The light-colored floors were specifically chosen to mimic sand, cleverly concealing any beach sand tracked in by the family. The design incorporated a mix of antique furnishings and architectural details such as wide-wood-paneled walls and detailed casing to give the new house an immediate sense of history and character. Keenan emphasized that using "old things" helps keep a space fresh and unique, breaking away from conventional design norms. The decor was further enhanced by layers of art, including framed textiles and pressed botanicals, adding personal touches and fostering conversation. A notable feature is the stairwell art gallery, filled with over 120 vintage nautical paintings collected from various vendors across the Southeast, including estate sales in Little Rock, making an otherwise functional space a vibrant display of personal history and curated taste. A large coastal landscape painting, discovered at Scott Antique Markets in Atlanta, became a centerpiece in the sons' room, symbolizing a nostalgic piece that could be passed down through generations. Ultimately, the home serves as a cherished gathering place for the Riser family, facilitating connection and creating lasting memories as their children grow. #BeachBungalow #CoastalHome #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SeasideFlorida #FamilyRetreat #ArchitecturalInnovation #AntiqueDecor #NauticalArt

Rye-based designer Emily Meszkat undertook the renovation of a three-story “upside down” vacation home in Weekapaug, Rhode Island, for former Westchester clients. The project aimed to create a luxurious yet family- and pet-friendly escape for a family of four, their dog, and extended visitors. The design emphasized a healthy use of color and pattern, incorporating whimsical touches while ensuring durable materials suitable for heavy traffic and a coastal environment. The homeowners, a sailing family, desired an infusion of coastal vibes without resorting to a simplistic blue and white palette. Meszkat collaborated with architect Kenneth Wieber and contractor Field + Co. to bring the vision to life. The home's 'upside down' layout positions the main living areas on the upper floors to maximize water views, which necessitated robust design choices for high-traffic zones like the stairs. Meszkat selected an indoor/outdoor runner for the staircase to withstand sand and salty shoes. Nautical elements were subtly integrated throughout, such as ship-like circular windows, shiplap, and glass tiles resembling mermaid scales. Traditional elements were given a coastal twist, including ginger jars with rattan details and rattan-wrapped brass lights. In the entryway, ginger jars with a coastal rattan twist provide a traditional aesthetic, while a durable indoor/outdoor runner was chosen for the heavily used stairs. The living room features a shiplap and marble fireplace that combines a carefree beach house feel with luxury. A pure wool rug with a nautical stripe and Pottery Barn sofas in a traditional style contribute to the inviting atmosphere. A wicker table painted in Sherwin Williams Salty Dog blue adds a pop of color. The powder room, located off the main living room, introduces a feminine touch with a pink Thibaut wallpaper that subtly incorporates blue patterns, a Kohler seashell-like sink, and a scalloped Oomph mirror. The kitchen features a custom white hood with wood accents, brass details, and Serena & Lily rattan barstools. A glass backsplash provides sparkle, and the space is painted in Benjamin Moore Simply White for a warm, crisp, and airy feel. A custom dining table by Dunes and Duchess is illuminated by a Capiz shell light. For the dry bar, Meszkat utilized Casablanca Tile with sea colors and a brass inlay, contrasting with hydrangea blue cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore’s Santorini, and elevated with glass hardware. The first-floor living space, designed for heavy in-and-out traffic from the beach and backyard parties, includes a fully equipped kitchenette with custom cabinetry by Primrose Woodworks and Lunada Bay tiles. Indoor/outdoor rugs and slipcovered sofas ensure easy maintenance. The first-floor guest bathroom incorporates blue-and-white-striped penny tiles from Casablanca Tiles, Phillip Jeffries vinyl wallpaper with a surfer vibe, brass fixtures, and a custom vanity by Primrose Woodworks. The primary bedroom, situated on the third floor for optimal views, features a custom reading nook with a green printed Thibaut fabric and Phillip Jeffries grasscloth in a hydrangea blue hue. Made Good indoor/outdoor side tables offer versatile seating. The primary bathroom maintains a serene, spa-like atmosphere with white and gray tile, porcelain resembling Calacatta marble, all-brass fixtures, and nautical lighting by Visual Comfort. The overall design successfully balances luxury, functionality, and a cohesive coastal aesthetic while introducing unexpected pops of color and pattern. #VacationHome #RhodeIslandDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalDecor #HomeRenovation #EmilyMeszkatInteriors #LuxuryLiving #FamilyFriendlyDesign #Weekapaug

Architects Annie-Laurie Grabiel and Arthur Furman, founders of Austin-based firm Side Angle Side, embarked on a seven-year-long renovation of their 1939 H-shaped bungalow in Texas. Their initial attraction to the property was its footprint, specifically its double-courtyard layout that allowed natural light to permeate from multiple angles, a characteristic appealing to architects. Despite the presence of a large oak tree shading the front yard and the bungalow having only two bedrooms for their family of four, the potential for light and the inherent charm of courtyard homes drew them in. The extensive renovation was unexpectedly triggered by the failure of a quirky, portable dishwasher. This appliance, which required a sink hook-up and was notoriously noisy, became a focal point. When it finally ceased to function, the couple's decision to replace it evolved into a more ambitious project. They reasoned that if they were updating cabinets for a new dishwasher, they might as well tackle countertops and lighting. This domino effect led to considering electrical upgrades, vaulting ceilings, and eventually, a full roofing overhaul. The sheer scale of their ideas initially led to a feeling of paralysis. However, Furman initiated the renovation by dismantling cabinets, creating a situation that necessitated moving forward. They enlisted the help of Waller Building Co. and Fort Structures to execute their vision. A significant change involved a temporary relocation from the house to facilitate a 200-square-foot addition. This seemingly modest expansion enabled the creation of an extra bedroom and bathroom, significantly improving the functionality of their home for a growing family. During construction, the couple demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and historical preservation by reusing many of the original steel casement windows. One innovative design choice was incorporating the home's original facade into the new foyer, maintaining a sense of honesty and creating an intentional sequence of arrival, as described by Grabiel. The exterior, once a faded blue, received a modern update with Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn, a black-gray shade with blue undertones. Internally, the design emphasized material consistency to avoid decision fatigue, with Saltillo tile used across the entryway, kitchen, bathrooms, and exterior courtyards. Reclaimed longleaf pine boards added warmth to the living areas and bedrooms, while crisp white kitchen cabinets and countertops provided a clean backdrop that allowed vibrant greenery, art, and daily objects to stand out. The project culminated with the addition of a swimming pool constructed from chukum, a Mexican resin known for its versatility. This material allowed for a seamless application across all pool surfaces, eliminating the need for coping or waterline tile. The challenging topography of their property, with a rear half climbing over 10 feet, required significant excavation—30 dump trucks of dirt were removed—to accommodate the pool, terraces, and cement retaining walls. Despite initial fears that nothing would grow again, the excavated area transformed into a mini oasis. The architects' goal was to create an inviting outdoor space for relaxation and social interaction, allowing for conversations to be heard without the noise of the old dishwasher, fostering a beloved outdoor lifestyle common in Texas. #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #CourtyardHome #AustinHomes #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

Designer Ken Fulk meticulously restored a 19th-century cottage in Provincetown, Massachusetts, infusing it with a unique blend of nautical inspiration and vintage aesthetics. The objective of the restoration was to transform the small space into a visually expansive and personally curated haven, reflecting Fulk's distinct style. The design approach emphasizes a collected feel, evident in the numerous oil paintings that adorn almost every surface, including the backs of doors, which contribute to a sense of visual continuity and historical depth in spaces like the entryway. The dining area, for instance, foregoes window treatments to maximize natural light, effectively tempering the dark painted floors. An antique bridge table paired with thatched-seat chairs replaces conventional dining furniture, enhancing the cottage's vintage charm and optimizing space. This decision highlights the designer's commitment to both functionality and thematic consistency, proving that small spaces can be highly adaptable and stylish. In the kitchen, innovative storage solutions are employed to avoid bulky cabinetry. Over-the-door open shelving and wall-mounted storage systems allow Fulk to prominently display his collection of kitchen items, turning utilitarian objects into decorative elements. This strategy not only maintains an uncluttered appearance but also integrates personal touches into the functional areas of the home, reinforcing the theme of a curated living space. The bedroom showcases a design technique where the same saturated color is applied to the ceiling, trim, and walls. This monochromatic application eliminates visual breaks, creating an illusion of heightened ceilings and a more expansive feel within the compact room. A salvaged boat hatch repurposed as a light fixture further enhances the nautical ambiance, seamlessly tying the room's design to the cottage's harborside location and Fulk's maritime interests. Throughout the cottage, the careful selection of furniture, art, and decor elements works in concert to create a cohesive and charming interior that belies its small footprint, presenting a model for maximizing character and comfort in a limited area. #HarborsideCottage #TinyHouseDesign #NauticalDecor #VintageHome #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #KenFulk #CapeCod #HomeRestoration

This article showcases a curated selection of homes featured in a regional tour of homes, spanning from Pawleys Island, South Carolina, to Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. Each home highlights distinct design philosophies, personal touches, and the collaboration between homeowners and design professionals to create unique living spaces. The tour emphasizes how these residences reflect the owners' personalities, travel experiences, and specific functional needs, while also showcasing contemporary design trends and regional architectural styles. The first featured home belongs to Steve and Lisa Campbell in The Dunes Club, a Mediterranean-style residence inspired by their travels to Italy, particularly Tuscany. The Campbells' design choices prioritize warm, welcoming colors for walls and ceilings. Each bedroom in their home is themed around specific Italian travel memories, such as the Positano Room, which features art, furniture, and colors reminiscent of the region. The couple also incorporated vibrant and colorful artwork, requiring ample wall space and built-in cubbies for displaying glass collections from their global travels. An open floor plan in the main living area, kitchen, and outdoor pool/deck is a key feature, designed for entertaining. Next, Ricky and Malia Segal's custom-built Pawleys Island home, a collaboration with Susan White at Classic Homes, presents a classic French Acadian-inspired ivory exterior that contrasts with bold interior colors and statement wallpapers. Malia Segal describes her style as transitional, blending contemporary art with traditional furniture elements and distinctive wall coverings. The home features a high vaulted ceiling in the great room with thick architectural beams and a gourmet kitchen with light gray, baby blue, and brass accents. A deep teal dining room with a butler's pantry is also highlighted. The design prioritizes open spaces for entertaining, accommodating family gatherings, and providing a large backyard for their dogs. Sam and Lisa Kinon's new-build home in Myrtle Beach, designed by Jill Heaton of Jill Heaton Interiors, adopts a blue-and-white chinoiserie palette, creating an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. The home is described as light, airy, and uplifting. Heaton guided the Kinons through selections including furnishings, accessories, architectural plans, room layouts, window placements, paint colors, wallpaper, lighting, and cabinet hardware. The aesthetic incorporates subdued blues in upholstery, window treatments, floral wallpaper, throw pillows, and rugs, with seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, including a pool and jacuzzi. Billy and Elly Brundage's "forever home" in Ocean Ridge Plantation, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, is characterized as light, open, airy, and coastal. Elly's vision for her home, realized with the design team of Geralyn Li Vecchi Marshburn and Catherine “Kitty” Bliss, aimed for a welcoming, spa-like beach atmosphere. The living space features blues, creams, and coastal grays, complemented by a beach glass wall shade. The kitchen, central to Elly's daily cooking and entertaining, is open to seating areas. The home was showcased in the 2024 Brunswick County Parade of Homes. Phil and Elaine Saccente's Mediterranean-style home in the Members Club section of Grande Dunes, Myrtle Beach, built by Nations Homes, features a modern and relaxed interior. Walls are painted in shades of gray, and the grand living room has a coffered ceiling in white and slate. The kitchen includes a sleek waterfall island, a metal range hood, and charcoal tile. The primary bath is notable for its gold-plated soaking tub, modern gold finishes, and ethereal lighting. The outdoor area, with a pool and patio, serves as a retreat for entertaining and relaxation. Joe and Kelly Victoria's custom modern farmhouse in Myrtle Beach, developed in partnership with Heritage Construction, balances traditional farmhouse aesthetics with contemporary elements. Kelly desired natural, light, and welcoming colors with pops of accent colors, and incorporated crown molding. The four-bedroom home on three acres was designed for their family of six, featuring both gold and black finishes and a large custom pantry with plywood shelving, butcher block countertops, a prep sink, and printed tile. Finally, Mary Beth and Emory Thompson's extensively remodeled oceanfront home on North Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, originally purchased by Emory's parents in 1999, underwent a significant transformation. Working with Debi Pinelli and Coastal Luxe, a bedroom was converted into a dining room, and a sauna/jacuzzi area became a 1,000-square-foot kitchen and pantry. The indoor pool area and a two-story deck addition with a spiral staircase are highlights. The remodel aimed to modernize the 1940s-era home while honoring its history and Emory's parents. The article also briefly mentions Andrew Entwistle's three-story oceanfront home, "Surfside Beach Wander," in Surfside Beach, North Carolina. This custom-designed home features eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, six workstations, a private heated pool, hot tub, and elevator. Its design includes coffered ceilings, shiplap and slat wood accent walls, marble accents, and high-end finishes, offering panoramic ocean views and private balconies for most bedrooms. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #CoastalLiving #LuxuryHomes #CustomBuilds #HomeTour #MyrtleBeach #PawleysIsland

Miken Builders, a company founded in northern Delaware in 1986 by Mike Cummings and later relocated to the coast in 1994, specializes in crafting custom beach homes. Mike's son, Sean Cummings, now leads the company. A couple with two college-aged children commissioned Miken Builders to create a custom summer home in Bethany Beach. Sean Cummings collaborated with architect Greg Hastings of Ocean View, known for his 40-year career in coastal construction and ability to create unique coastal designs, a partnership that has spanned over a decade. The resulting custom-designed house, located within walking distance of downtown Bethany, blends traditional coastal elements with unexpected details. The exterior showcases a classic shingle style, featuring a gambrel roofline—characterized by two shallow slopes above two steeper ones—and an oval-within-an-oval window. A distinctive gable emerges from another gable, forming a roof for a third-floor porch-like terrace, a nod to Miken Builders' origins in deck and porch construction. This facade presents an assertive yet inviting aesthetic, complemented by white railings, shingle and metal roofs, and board-and-batten detailing, contributing to a "cottage feel" for the expansive 4,500-square-foot home, which includes five bedrooms, four with en suite bathrooms. The home's indoor-outdoor living experience is highlighted by its 14-by-24-foot screened-in porch, a testament to Miken Builders' expertise in porch design. A casual, swing-like daybed, featuring nautical-style rope and plaid fabric, anchors the space. The porch is seamlessly integrated with the living room through a pair of four-panel French doors, creating a glass wall effect. The house employs an inverted floor plan, common in flood zones, with the main living area on the second floor and bedrooms on the third. A game room occupies the ground floor. Interior design choices, guided by Denise Perkins, lead interior designer at Bountiful Interiors, embrace bold colors and patterns. The home's bright-blue front door foreshadows the vibrant interior. A kitchen island and wet-bar millwork are painted in Sherwin-Williams' Blue Refrain, complemented by vivid wallpaper, primarily from Thibaut, which deviates from typical beach house aesthetics. The clients actively embraced these unconventional color choices. The kitchen features a scalloped fish-scale tile backsplash and cabinetry by Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry, along with a Kohler stainless steel apron sink. These design elements ensure the house is both visually pleasing and functional. The living room is anchored by a sectional sofa from Universal Furniture, upholstered in performance fabric, and receives ample natural light through the French doors. Whitewashed beams contribute to a modern beach aesthetic. Innovative design extends to the bedrooms. One guest room features a sophisticated bunk-bed design with an extra-large single mattress above a queen-sized bed. A bunk-bed room, designed with future family use in mind, incorporates an ingenious whitewashed staircase with drawer steps and rope handles, maximizing space and utility. A latch on the upper bunk's railing allows for easier bed-making. In one of the main bedrooms, flooring material, specifically wood veneer, was used to create a weathered, faded-blue angled ceiling, complementing the woven headboard from Universal Furniture and contributing to the overall cottage feel. One en suite bathroom showcases subway shower tiles in a herringbone pattern, with the vanity provided by Perkins. These distinctive design choices create a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic that reflects the homeowners' preferences for originality. #CoastalCharm #CustomHome #BethanyBeach #MikenBuilders #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #BeachHouse #HomeDecor

Shari and Med Lahlou, an Upper Northwest D.C. couple, transformed a challenging, narrow oceanfront lot in Bethany Beach, Delaware, into a spacious and airy second home. Initially, the couple purchased a small 1970s "beach shack" in 2020, which they used for two summers with their children. Recognizing the need for a more functional and robust structure, they decided to build a new home. Their primary residence is in the Spring Valley neighborhood of Upper Northwest D.C., where Shari works as a trial lawyer and Med owns five Washington restaurants. The lot, zoned for only one dwelling and just 17 feet wide, presented significant design challenges. The Lahlous engaged Marnie Custom Homes, specifically builder Marnie Oursler, known for her ability to maximize difficult spaces. Construction took place between 2022 and 2023, with the family able to enjoy their new home by June 2023. The initial vision included a main house and a separate guest cottage, but due to zoning restrictions, Oursler, in collaboration with architectural firms Gentilucci Designs of Bethesda and the Barker Design Group of Washington, D.C., devised a creative solution. The final design features two slender, three-story wings—one for the main house and the other for guests—connected by a rectangular central deck that incorporates a swimming pool. This innovative layout ensures that both sections of the house benefit from ocean views. The 4,332-square-foot structure includes six bedrooms and 6½ bathrooms. The main house wing, directly facing the beach, contains three bedrooms with en suite baths, an open kitchen, and a great room. The guest wing provides a living area on the second floor, a two-car garage on the ground level, and three bedrooms, including one with bunk beds. An exterior staircase and a laundry room in the guest quarters enhance privacy for visitors. The central deck, measuring 40 by 17 feet, is constructed from weather-resistant ipe-wood planking and features a 7-foot by 8.6-foot fiberglass pool, 5½ feet deep. The pool was strategically placed in the middle of the lot to capitalize on southern exposure, ensuring sun exposure throughout most of the day. The deck railings were installed at an obtuse angle to create a more open feel, and a bar with seating for four, along with built-in planters for perennial flowers and herbs, adds to the outdoor amenities. This is one of five decks on the property, including a large one off the second level of the main wing with ocean views. To compensate for the narrow footprint and enhance the sense of space, the design emphasized natural light through extensive use of glass doors and oversized, often floor-to-ceiling, windows. Nine-foot ceilings in most rooms, along with wire balustrades on the interior stair rails, contribute to an airy aesthetic. The floors, covered in pale wood-look vinyl, further reflect light. The kitchen, designed by Sarah Kahn-Turner of Marnie Custom Homes, was tailored to Med Lahlou’s background as a restaurant owner, prioritizing functionality within the constrained space. It features a long, lean layout with appliances concealed behind cabinet panels, a 15-foot-long island with seating for six, and a neutral color palette with gold finishes. Throughout the home, Shari Lahlou selected furnishings in blues, whites, and natural tones to complement the coastal environment. Aquatic-inspired art, including a mixed-media painting by Elizabeth Langreiter, adorns the walls. Unique light fixtures, such as an agate stone chandelier and a Dale Chihuly-style glass piece, are found in various rooms. The primary bedroom suite on the third floor of the main wing is a highlight, featuring a blue glass chandelier, cathedral ceilings, and wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic ocean views. Bathrooms incorporate diverse blue, gray, and white tiles, each with distinct patterns and styles, adding to the individualized character of the home. The overall design successfully creates a tranquil and functional oceanfront retreat despite the architectural challenges of the lot. #oceanfrontHome #beachHouse #narrowLotDesign #customBuild #bethanyBeach #modernCoastal #architecturalInnovation #luxuryRealEstate #interiorDesign

A Maine-loving couple from St. Louis purchased a narrow sliver of land in Cape Elizabeth, renowned for its coastal beauty and proximity to Portland, despite the scarcity of building opportunities. They commissioned the local architecture firm Woodhull to design a contemporary home that could navigate the challenging site conditions. The resulting structure, affectionately nicknamed 'Matchstick House' by architect David Duncan Morris, is characterized by its distinctive slender shape, measuring 16 feet wide by 78 feet long, and features a steeply pitched gable roof. This unique design has garnered considerable attention from passersby. The half-acre lot presented several constraints that influenced the architectural design. A stormwater line for a nearby sports field bisected the property, requiring a 10-foot setback. Additionally, a neighbor's two-car garage was situated in the front portion of the plot. The homeowners later acquired the neighboring property, re-deeded the garage to themselves, and then resold the adjacent home. To address these challenges, the design team, including Bud Angst, Johan Kinnucan, and Coleman Motley, strategically positioned the house deep within the lot. This placement ensured compliance with setback regulations and created a buffer from the busy road, enhancing the homeowners' privacy. The windows were carefully oriented to overlook the yards beyond the neighboring properties, rather than directly into them. The 1,900-square-foot home boasts three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, a spacious living area, a kitchen equipped with a walk-in pantry, and an entry that functions as a mudroom. An almost 450-square-foot deck complements the indoor living space, offering leafy views and abundant natural light. Morris emphasized that the clients did not have to compromise on their desires, ensuring every space felt gracious and comfortable. The home's entrance, featuring a dark blue door and a walkway of horizontal concrete pavers, is designed like a traditional Japanese genkan, set a step lower than the rest of the house to minimize the tracking of debris indoors. Inside, the sightline from the front door extends through the living room, where a modern woodstove draws the eye across the bright white interior with white oak floors. A slider in the living room opens to the south-facing deck. The kitchen is anchored by a walnut island and features blue floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. The owners' request for a cooktop in the island, initially resisted by Morris, proved beneficial as it avoided the need for a hood on the sink wall, preserving valuable window space. This design choice, along with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, enhances the perception of space and maximizes natural light and views, making the 16-foot width feel significantly larger. The tall, narrow window in the pantry and the floating staircase contribute to the open, continuous feel from front to back, allowing light to permeate even typically enclosed areas. The living room extends five feet beyond the main structure, with its glass-encased corner providing an immersive connection to the outdoors. The vaulted ceiling, reaching 21½ feet high, further expands the interior volume. The primary suite, located behind the living space, offers increasing privacy as one moves towards the rear of the house. It features southern and western exposures, along with a northern exposure when a pocket door separating the bedroom from the spacious bathroom is opened. Morris frequently receives inquiries about the house's narrowness and whether it feels cramped, to which he responds that it feels much larger than its dimensions suggest, calling it a 'magic trick' of a house. The architectural and landscape design was executed by Woodhull and David Maynes Studio, respectively. #ArchitectureDesign #NarrowLot #ContemporaryHome #MaineRealEstate #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeDesign #CapeElizabeth

The Evergreen Cottage (Plan SL-2003), designed by Lake & Land Studio, is a charming three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath house plan that would be well-suited for a lakeside or rural property. Lake & Land Studio is known for its collaboration with Erin and Ben Napier on HGTV’s *Home Town* series, having also designed the Hawthorn Cottage, another popular small-space house plan. The Evergreen Cottage offers a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, catering to those who appreciate a home with character and thoughtful design. Key features of the Evergreen Cottage include a large front porch and a screened side porch, both designed to maximize outdoor living and provide ample space for relaxation or entertaining guests. The front porch, accessible directly from the main living area, creates an inviting entryway, while the screened side porch offers a bug-free environment for enjoying the outdoors in comfort. These porches contribute significantly to the cottage's overall charm and livability, enhancing its connection to the surrounding environment. Upon entering the cottage, visitors are greeted by an open-concept living space that seamlessly integrates the living room, dining area, and kitchen. This design promotes a sense of spaciousness and encourages interaction among residents and guests. The living room is anchored by a cozy fireplace, serving as a focal point and providing warmth and ambiance during cooler months. Large windows throughout the main living area allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The kitchen is well-appointed with a large island, offering additional counter space for meal preparation and casual dining. This central island can also serve as a gathering spot for family and friends. The layout is practical, allowing for efficient movement within the kitchen while maintaining an open feel. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining area provides a dedicated space for meals, with easy access to both the kitchen and the outdoor screened porch, facilitating indoor-outdoor dining experiences. The master bedroom is strategically located on the main floor, offering convenience and privacy. It features a spacious walk-in closet, providing ample storage for clothing and personal items. The en-suite master bathroom is designed with modern amenities and a focus on comfort, creating a private retreat for the homeowners. The main floor also includes a mudroom, a practical addition that helps keep the home tidy by providing a designated space for coats, shoes, and other outdoor gear, particularly useful for homes in rural or lakeside settings. Two additional bedrooms are situated on the second floor, each with its own walk-in closet, ensuring sufficient storage for residents or guests. These bedrooms share a full bathroom, efficiently designed to serve the needs of the upstairs occupants. The second floor also includes a bonus room, a versatile space that can be adapted to various uses, such as a home office, a playroom, a guest room, or a hobby area. This flexibility adds significant value to the cottage, allowing it to evolve with the changing needs of its inhabitants. The Evergreen Cottage also features a two-car garage, providing secure parking and additional storage space. This practical element is essential for homeowners, offering protection for vehicles and a convenient location for tools or recreational equipment. The design of the garage complements the overall architectural style of the cottage, maintaining a cohesive and attractive exterior. #Cottage #HousePlan #HomeDesign #SmallSpace #SouthernLiving #ErinAndBenNapier #LakeAndLandStudio #ArchitecturalDesign

The Guemes Island Bunkhouse, designed by SHED Architecture & Design, is a two-story structure intended to provide additional sleeping accommodations for a client's family cabin. The bunkhouse is situated on Guemes Island, offering views of the Bellingham Channel, and was completed in 2023 with a total area of 590 square feet. This project aims to create a space for rest, quiet work, and family memories, with the intention that it will be passed down through generations. The bunkhouse is strategically located less than ten feet uphill from the property's existing 100-year-old log cabin. The original cabin has a unique history, having been built on Lopez Island, then dismantled and transported to Guemes Island in the 1940s. Unlike many neighboring properties that are built at the water's edge, both the original cabin and the new bunkhouse are positioned just inside the treeline. This placement offers a sense of privacy and seclusion while still providing westward views. SHED Architecture & Design's approach prioritized minimizing disturbance to the natural forested site. The bunkhouse's design frames specific views from its second floor, integrating it thoughtfully into the landscape. The project was led by Prentis Hale and Georgine Botha, with Dain Susman as the photographer. Kaplan Homes served as the main contractor, Jennie Gruss as the interior designer, and Todd Perbix as the structural engineer. The design reflects a careful consideration of its natural surroundings and the client's long-term vision for the property. The modest size of the bunkhouse, at 590 sq ft, suggests an efficient use of space while maximizing comfort and functionality for its intended purpose as an auxiliary living area. The combination of its thoughtful siting, historical context with the main cabin, and specific design intentions positions the Guemes Island Bunkhouse as a discreet yet significant addition to the family property. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #GuemesIsland #SHEDArchitecture #Bunkhouse #CabinLife #ForestedSite

Handcrafted Movement, a Washington-based company, has unveiled its latest micro-dwelling, the Coastal Craftsman tiny home. This 238-square-foot tiny house distinguishes itself through its exceptional interior design, which creates an open, airy, and inviting atmosphere despite its compact size. The home is built on a transportable trailer, featuring a cream-colored board and batten siding complemented by Pacific Cedar accents and a dark metal rooftop. A glass-paneled door serves as the entry point, leading into a living space characterized by distressed oak flooring that contrasts with white walls, contributing to a relaxed, beach-inspired aesthetic that is further enhanced by abundant natural light. The interior design emphasizes custom-built furnishings, meticulously crafted to maximize space and functionality without introducing clutter. The living area features a chaise lounge-style sofa bed, ideal for relaxation, and an electric fireplace for warmth. A vintage desk and chair are integrated into a small window nook, offering a dedicated workspace. The kitchen, though compact, is highly efficient, boasting ample shelving and cupboards. A notable feature is the dining table, crafted from salvaged walnut wood sourced from Oregon. Stairs in the kitchen lead to a sleeping loft, designed to accommodate a king-size bed. Matt Impola, the founder of Handcrafted Movement, personally undertook the framing of the walls and incorporated custom-made roof trusses, adding significant dimension and character to the tiny home's design. Impola highlighted his hands-on involvement, stating he built many components himself, including exterior shutters, kitchen cabinets, bathroom doors, stairs, an electric fireplace, television cabinet, coffee counter, and dining table, with assistance for assembly and finishing. He prioritizes integrating full-size furniture into his tiny homes to ensure long-term comfort for residents. Beyond its aesthetic appeal and thoughtful design, the Coastal Craftsman incorporates several energy-efficient features. These include rock-based Roxul insulation, ten large Energy Star-rated windows, LED lighting, an instant water heater, and a propane oven and cooker. These elements contribute to remarkably low estimated monthly energy costs, ranging from $12 to $25. The project showcases a blend of meticulous craftsmanship, sustainable practices through the use of reclaimed materials, and a focus on both comfort and energy efficiency in a small living space. #TinyHomes #InteriorDesign #CustomBuilt #EnergyEfficient #ReclaimedMaterials #MicroDwelling #CoastalCraftsman #HandcraftedMovement

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