Open Practice Architecture and Kinder Design create "architecturally unique" home in London

Architect James Davies, founder of Paper House Project, undertook an ambitious endeavor to convert a derelict former schoolhouse in Hackney, London, into his personal two-bedroom residence. This challenging project, completed by October 2022, transformed a dilapidated brick structure into a high-ceilinged, concrete-floored home, showcasing Davies' vision and determination. The site presented significant hurdles, including being landlocked, lacking existing utility services, and navigating complex access negotiations with surrounding freeholders and leaseholders. Davies described these issues as challenges rather than obstacles, requiring immense patience and unwavering confidence to resolve, including extending new electric and water connections via a 90-meter trench across third-party land. Davies' architectural approach focused on restoring the original brick envelope of the building while implementing a modern interior design. He collaborated with engineers to minimize visible structural elements, thereby maximizing the double-height spaces and enhancing the sense of openness. A key design feature is the incorporation of new gridded steel-frame windows and an inner courtyard, which together flood the interiors with natural light and create a unique sense of volume, uncommon in typical London homes. Davies noted that the abundant natural light, height, and volume significantly contribute to mood and well-being, emphasizing the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the internal courtyard, which helps to create a serene environment despite the property's proximity to busy Hackney high streets. The interior aesthetic draws inspiration from industrial and warehouse conversions, influenced by notable structures such as the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, Liverpool's Albert Docks, and the warehouse living styles prevalent in New York City. Davies consciously selected a limited palette of materials, predominantly concrete and steel surfaces, to achieve a smooth, stylized industrial look throughout the home. This choice of materials, combined with elements like a black marble splash-back, oak veneer door fronts, and a spruce-paneled staircase, introduces contrasting materialities that add depth and character to the design. Practical solutions were devised to overcome site access limitations, such as fabricating large components off-site and ensuring they were light enough to be manually carried through the courtyard by two people. Steel A-frame trusses with cable rod connections were ingeniously embedded to support the new slate roof, demonstrating innovative structural solutions. The downstairs living spaces are subtly divided by the staircase, maintaining an open feel while delineating functional areas. Wooden interior panels are strategically used to soften the white walls, adding warmth to the industrial aesthetic. Davies encapsulated the essence of the house's ambiance with a single word: 'calm', reflecting the successful creation of a tranquil urban dwelling from a complex, derelict site. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #LondonRealEstate #HackneyHome #ConversionProject #IndustrialAesthetic #PaperHouseProject #ArchitecturalRenovation

Sean Ronnie Hill, founder of Rise Design Studio, and his wife, fashion designer Mallika Chaudhuri, have transformed their one-level, ground-floor apartment in North London to accommodate their two daughters' request for a staircase and to reflect a deep appreciation for natural materials and thoughtful design. The renovation of their home integrates a unique, sculptural birch plywood installation in the girls' bedroom, designed to resemble a whale, a nod to their eldest daughter's fascination with the sea. This whale-like structure functions as a loft bed, with a traditional flight of steps leading to a mezzanine for 9-year-old Freya, complete with an undulating open railing. Beneath the staircase, a raised platform serves as 6-year-old India's bed, featuring built-in drawers for storage and spare mattresses for sleepovers. A projector allows the girls to watch movies on their cupboard walls, and a perforated, indigo-blue moon adorns the bed's side, further enhancing the aquatic theme. The sea theme extends throughout the apartment. The bathroom, though compact, features a timber-slatted ceiling reminiscent of a whale's ribs and walls finished with ocean blue tadelakt, color-matched for a textured appearance. The family's time in Barcelona's medieval districts inspired the use of clay and exposed plaster throughout the home, emphasizing a desire for natural materials and their raw beauty. To maintain the integrity of these organic surfaces and avoid distractions from typical spotlights or artwork, Hill implemented innovative lighting and display solutions. Bulbs are suspended from pivoting black brackets, allowing light to be directed flexibly, while slim bars near the ceiling serve as picture rails, enabling frames to be clipped on and off without piercing the walls. The open-plan kitchen and living room demonstrate meticulous planning for storage needs, featuring extensive cabinetry, drawers within drawers, and a mobile kitchen island. This thoughtful design ensures that the family's belongings are neatly organized, preventing a cluttered feel despite the apartment's size. An additional bedroom, which also functions as a playroom, was created from a side extension, utilizing large sliding doors for instant privacy. This versatile space includes a daybed and a desk, providing an area for the girls to do homework while meals are prepared. The home's neutral palette is complemented by splashes of color primarily from Chaudhuri’s textiles—inherited or thrifted rugs and furnishings. A striking exception is Chaudhuri's studio at the end of the garden, which features vibrant Yves Klein Blue doors, symbolizing her fashion brand and adding an ethereal, happy hue that also subtly ties back to the home's aquatic motif. On weekends, the family enjoys opening the studio doors to relax on a small sofa, enjoying coffee and tending to plants, further connecting with the outdoor space and the thoughtfully designed environment of their London home. #HomeTours #LondonHome #KidsRoomDesign #LoftBed #InnovativeLighting #NaturalMaterials #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign

This article highlights the innovative and playful interior design approach of 2LG Studio, led by Jordan Cluroe and Russell Whitehead, in transforming an Edwardian-era home in southeast London. The clients, parents of three young children, desired a home that balanced adult sophistication with whimsical elements for their kids, and 2LG Studio delivered with their signature witty interiors, candy-colored palette, and modern style. Central to the design is a dedicated playroom at the front of the house, which boasts a custom-built, 9-foot birch climbing frame featuring a squiggly slide. This impressive structure is cushioned by recycled vinyl flooring, cut by the designers themselves, demonstrating a creative and cost-effective approach to child-friendly spaces. The design team also incorporated a pink loopy wallpaper, hand-drawn and screen-printed in collaboration with Custhom Studio, in the hallways, further cementing the home's playful yet sophisticated aesthetic. While a significant portion of the home caters to children's activities, the adjacent lounge maintains a distinctly adult ambiance, complete with a cocktail cabinet and DJ decks. However, even this grown-up space is infused with 2LG Studio's playful touch through elements like a candy-striped pendant light and a squiggly sofa, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. The kitchen, a serene space, features powder blue arched cabinets that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing ample storage while acting as a striking architectural detail. A zigzag pink tiled wall in the adjoining sitting area adds another layer of clever design, mimicking fabric despite its hard material. Longevity and adaptability were key considerations in the design of the children's bedrooms. The wallpaper, adorned with hand-applied metallic fragments, offers a touch of whimsy without being overly childish, allowing for future transformations as the children grow. The designers also showcased their resourcefulness by repurposing outgrown toys into art, such as a rainbow 'wreath' made from plastic paraphernalia, and framing gift wrap for an inexpensive yet charming woodland scene. These DIY elements illustrate how personal touches can elevate a space without significant expense. The children's shared bathroom emphasizes practicality and fun, featuring a poured resin floor that is easy to clean, accommodating the inevitable spills from bath time in the enormous baby blue tub. The overall design philosophy blurs the lines between adult and child-centric elements, creating a home where both functionality and fun coexist harmoniously. The project exemplifies how thoughtful design can integrate vibrant colors, playful structures, and sustainable materials into a historic setting, resulting in a unique and joyful living environment. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #PlayfulInteriors #LondonHomes #EdwardianArchitecture #2LGStudio #KidsPlayroom #CustomFurniture #SustainableDesign

Liddicoat & Goldhill, a London-based architectural firm, designed the Tailored House, a brick and concrete townhouse located in Kensington. The house was built on a site damaged by bombing during the Second World War, completing an existing terrace of Victorian townhouses. The project faced numerous design challenges and restrictions, including a tight budget, the risk of flooding, party wall negotiations, an irregularly shaped plot, and the crucial need to preserve the rights to light for adjacent properties. These constraints significantly shaped the final design of the dwelling. The Tailored House integrates seamlessly with its Victorian neighbors, maintaining the building line, while also incorporating contemporary elements. A key feature of the design is a fully glazed rear section, which plays a pivotal role in allowing ample daylight to penetrate both the new house and the adjacent properties. This innovative glazing solution is paired with a steeply angled roof, specifically designed to maximize natural light access for the homes behind the new structure. The rear section is also strategically cranked outwards, a response to the irregular shape of the plot, ensuring optimal space utilization. The building's exterior features a blend of traditional and modern materials. The street-facing elevation echoes the style of the adjoining terrace through its layered arrangement. Pale brick, chosen for its historical connection to London's brick construction, is used prominently. Contemporary details such as smooth concrete surfaces define the entrance bay and first-floor windows, with the same material extending to window reveals and an angular relief pattern on a cornice, adding modern touches to the facade. The rear elevation, characterized by a sheer brickwork wall, transitions into a screen of metal fins. These fins cleverly conceal glazing, providing both privacy and filtered light to the occupants and their neighbors. Internally, the design emphasizes continuity and natural light. Bronze-framed windows are set into the angled upper part of the end elevation, while glazed doors from the living room open onto a small courtyard. This courtyard incorporates a glass floor, allowing light to filter down to the kitchen and dining area located on the level below. A skylight in the steeply sloped roof illuminates a stairwell situated along the party wall. Additional glazed roof panels further enhance natural light, reaching a small bathroom at the front of the house and a staircase descending to the basement. Material continuity is maintained inside the house with brick walls, mirroring the exterior. These textured surfaces are complemented by wooden flooring and joinery featuring a strong grain, which introduces warmth to the light-filled spaces. The name "The Tailored House" reflects the complexity and bespoke nature of the design, which, despite its intricate fabrication, presents a recognizable, elegant, and simple overall appearance. However, upon closer inspection, the individuality and material richness of the house become apparent, akin to a finely tailored suit. Liddicoat & Goldhill, based in Dalston, east London, have a portfolio that includes other notable projects such as an oak-screened staircase extension to a south London home and a garden cabin with an angular roof. #LondonArchitecture #TownhouseDesign #BrickConstruction #ContemporaryArchitecture #GlazedFacades #ResidentialDesign #UrbanHousing #Kensington #ArchitecturalInnovation

Freehaus, a north London architectural studio, has recently completed the renovation and extension of an early Victorian terraced house in Hackney, East London. The project aimed to transform the existing structure into a family home that balances minimalist aesthetics with practical functionality, specifically tailored to the clients' needs. The design prioritized creating a central kitchen area that serves as the heart of the home, offering clear views across the ground floor and into the garden to accommodate a young family of four. This approach focused on fostering connectivity between living spaces, catering to daily activities such as play, work, and relaxation. The architects implemented several key interventions to achieve their vision. They opened up communal areas to enhance flow and spaciousness, and added a kitchen extension featuring a 720mm deep cantilevered floating kitchen drawer unit by Big Little Projects. The material palette was deliberately kept simple and versatile, predominantly utilizing oak and marble to maintain a crisp, minimalist aesthetic. To visually delineate between the original structure and the new additions, darker brick was used for the rear volume of the extension. This thoughtful use of materials not only contributes to the aesthetic but also helps to articulate the home's evolution. Despite the project's seemingly straightforward outcome, the architects faced significant challenges, particularly in navigating the strict conservation area policies of Hackney. The design, which sought to maximize the extent of change to the property, initially encountered resistance during the planning application process. Consent was only granted after an appeal, highlighting the complexities involved in undertaking renovations in historically protected areas. This experience underscores the need for meticulous planning and engagement with regulatory bodies in such projects. Freehaus, though a relatively young firm, has established a notable presence in the architectural landscape, securing commissions for prominent projects like London's African Centre and the refurbishment of Bahlsen's historic headquarters in Germany. The studio views residential projects as a significant area of potential, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach with clients. For this East London home, the clients, who are actively involved in creative fields, contributed significantly to the design discussions, bringing ideas such as the floating kitchen counter that introduced lightness and playfulness to the space. This collaborative dynamic was crucial to the project's success, demonstrating that the most impactful residential designs often emerge from a partnership between architects and homeowners. The completed home exemplifies a successful blend of architectural vision and client collaboration, resulting in a residence that is both aesthetically refined and deeply functional for its inhabitants. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design, even within the constraints of existing structures and regulatory frameworks, can deliver spaces that are modest in appearance but rich in spatial quality and tailored to contemporary family living. #LondonArchitecture #VictorianRenovation #FamilyHomeDesign #MinimalistInterior #KitchenExtension #MaterialPalette #ConservationArea #CollaborativeDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #Freehaus

The article showcases Park House, a residential project by 31/44 Architects located in Lewisham, London. This bespoke family home was developed on a challenging, trapezoid-shaped brownfield site, which previously housed garages and backs onto the River Quaggy. The architects’ design approach was driven by the necessity to convert an underutilized urban space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing living environment, a common challenge in space-constrained London. The project highlights how architectural innovation can transform neglected plots into desirable residential properties. Park House features modern, rectilinear brick volumes that integrate seamlessly with the natural surroundings of a verdant woodland. A key design element is the incorporation of frameless Velfac windows, which contribute to the structure’s minimalist aesthetic and enhance natural light within the interiors. The architectural composition involves an elegant interplay of volumes and voids, strategically designed to maximize daylight penetration. The entrance lobby is a notable feature, presenting a dramatic double-height space that leads into various living areas. These spaces are finished with high-quality materials, specifically oiled oak timber and grey Mosa ceramic tiles, contributing to a refined yet homely atmosphere. The interior design of Park House employs a simple material and color palette, which helps create bright, contemporary, and inviting spaces. Large windows throughout the house establish strong visual connections to the outdoor greenery, allowing residents to enjoy views of the garden and the sky, while also creating dynamic shadow play inside. This emphasis on natural light and outdoor views underscores the architects' intention to blend the indoor living experience with the natural environment, despite the urban setting. Initially built as a speculative project for a private developer, Park House quickly attracted a young family. The family had a prior appreciation for 31/44 Architects' work, having visited one of their previous projects, No 49 Lewisham, during an Open House London event. This familiarity with the architects’ design philosophy and quality of work played a significant role in their decision to purchase Park House. The new owners, Pia and Jon Fairhurst, expressed their satisfaction with the home, describing it as a "hidden gem" and a "haven on the edge of the meadow," which offers the benefits of London living coupled with a sense of light and space. They particularly appreciated the meticulous consideration given to the layout, storage, and craftsmanship of every detail. The success of Park House demonstrates 31/44 Architects' capability to tackle complex urban sites and deliver high-quality, desirable residential solutions. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can revitalize overlooked urban plots, providing unique and appealing homes that meet the demands of modern family living while respecting and enhancing the local environment. It serves as an example of innovative urban residential development in London, addressing the need for bespoke homes in a dense urban landscape. #LondonArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #BrownfieldRedevelopment #3144Architects #FamilyHome #ModernArchitecture #UrbanPlanning #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Eastwest Architecture has designed and installed a compact gym in the garden of an East London home in Walthamstow. Commissioned by a homeowner lacking local gym facilities, the Garden Studio Gym serves as a multifunctional space, convertible into an office or yoga studio. The design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetic integration within the garden setting. The architects faced strict building regulations concerning maximum roof heights. To accommodate this, the ground floor of the studio was lowered, ensuring ample ceiling height for activities like skipping and jumping. This sunken design also contributes to a more integrated appearance within the garden landscape, minimizing its visual impact from the main residence. The project utilized a streamlined material palette to maintain budget efficiency. The exterior is predominantly clad in charred cedar, a dark wood choice. To counteract any potential visual dominance of the dark cladding, a large window was incorporated into the main wall, offering a glimpse of the contrasting interior and allowing natural light to penetrate the space. The selection of charred cedar provides a modern yet natural aesthetic, intended to complement the garden environment. Inside, three of the gym's internal walls are finished with birch plywood panels. These panels are strategically illuminated with yellow lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This design choice aims to encourage the clients to use the gym regularly, making the journey from their home to the studio an appealing one. The warm interior contrasts with the dark exterior, adding a layer of visual interest. The fourth wall of the gym features a full-height frameless mirror. This mirror serves a dual purpose: it is functional for exercise routines and, more importantly, creates an illusion of a much larger space. This visual trick is particularly effective in a compact garden studio, making the interior feel expansive despite its actual dimensions. Angled skylights further enhance the natural light within the sunken structure, maximizing brightness and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. Additional design details include a discreet door lintel, echoing the traditional garden shed aesthetic, and a hidden connection for a punch bag, allowing it to be easily removed when the space needs to be adapted for other uses. These thoughtful additions underscore the studio's multifunctional purpose and its ability to seamlessly transition between various activities. The project showcases how architectural constraints can lead to innovative design solutions, creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and adaptable space within a residential garden. #EastwestArchitecture #GardenStudio #HomeGym #LondonArchitecture #CharredCedar #BirchPlywood #ResidentialDesign #SmallSpaceDesign #MultifunctionalSpace

This article highlights four distinctive home design projects by various architectural firms, showcasing innovative approaches to residential living spaces. Each project demonstrates a unique blend of creativity, functionality, and personalized style, reflecting contemporary trends in interior and architectural design. The first featured project is by Itch Società d’Architettura in Milan, focusing on the transformation of early-20th-century attic apartments and duplexes. These residences incorporate clever interventions such as a daylight-ushering glass rooftop extension that opens onto a balcony, enhancing natural light and outdoor access. The design also emphasizes refined color blocking, which serves to animate and add character to otherwise understated interiors, utilizing original wood-slat ceilings crisscrossed with steel beams as a foundational element. Next, Ubalt Architectes in Paris presents a conversion of a 1970s computer data center into a live-work unit on the outskirts of the Marais district. This project boldly reimagines the typically grayscale office environment with fearless design choices. Notable features include vertical blinds, a vibrant jolt of tinted Plexiglas cladding structural steel, and a unique staggered terrazzo jardiniere. This jardiniere, accessed by a surrealist pool ladder, ingeniously extends the terrace greenery into the interior space, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Office S&M;, an emerging London practice, contributes a remodeled lower level of a Victorian town house in Islington. Their design is characterized by a playful and vibrant aesthetic, incorporating joyous tropical colors and tinted mirrors that introduce warped views, adding a whimsical dimension to the space. Custom built-ins, designed with peaks and arches, reference the surrounding architecture and evoke a playhouse-like charm. A strong emphasis on sustainability is evident through the use of reclaimed materials, such as countertops made from melted-down plastics and pendant lights crafted from recycled crushed brick, giving new life to previously existing elements. Finally, Rowland+Broughton showcases a contemporary three-story family home in Aspen, Colorado. This residence is a crisp composition of natural and refined materials, including soap-finished larch, bleached oak, charred pine, and black steel. Situated adjacent to a meadow and surrounded by evergreens, spruce trees, and Gambel oaks, the home integrates seamlessly with its natural environment. Interior highlights include a sculptural spiral staircase featuring LED-lit treads and a hand-carved Pele de Tigre marble fireplace, a collaboration with the Haas Brothers, which serves as a central artistic statement within the home. These elements collectively define a sophisticated and modern living space deeply connected to its serene surroundings. #ResidentialDesign #CreativeHomes #InteriorArchitecture #HomeRenovation #MilanDesign #ParisianLiveWork #LondonTownhouse #AspenHome

The Bandy House and Studio, a project initiated in 1974 by architect Col Bandy for himself and his wife Joy in suburban Melbourne, epitomizes Bandy's distinctive 'bush expression' and innovative approach to spatial design. The house, notable for its unfinished state at the time of Bandy's passing in 2009, reflects the extensive time and personal involvement Bandy dedicated to its construction, as he reportedly placed every brick and nail himself. This self-built nature allowed for a unique architectural experiment, a common theme in architects' own homes, enabling them to test ideas and undertake risks that might be impractical for clients. The design of the Bandy House is characterized by its detailed and complex spatial arrangements, despite Joy's description of it as "pretty simple." Bandy's design process was rapid, with the initial concept and a beer-box model created within hours of purchasing the property. The house features numerous nooks and crannies, resulting from its angled geometry, sloping ceilings, and split levels, including a sunken living room. An earlier design included a cantilevered bed in the mezzanine, hovering over the studio space, though this feature was ultimately not implemented. However, the angled timber beams supporting the mezzanine still frame the bed, suggesting a careful negotiation of space. This experimental approach to cantilevering was later realized in a built-in seat in the Lenartowicz house. The final constructed version of the Bandy House exhibits even greater complexity than its original drawings, such as the roof canopy above the front door, which reveals the structure more seductively by cutting the tiling at a forty-five-degree chamfer angle. The house's architectural style, rooted in the 1970s, incorporates exposed concrete blocks and raw timber, linking it to New Brutalism. This, combined with the prevalent use of forty-five-degree angles, aligns it with a local architectural phenomenon often associated with architects like Kevin Borland. Borland's work of the early 1970s, described by Ian McDougall as embodying "anti-formalism, naive lumping of lean-to shapes, bush carpentry and natural timber walls," significantly influenced Melbourne architects, establishing a 'chamfer style' and 'bush romance.' This represented a departure from the earlier modernist steel-and-glass aesthetics, favoring natural materials, indigenous plants, and raw detailing, which resonated with a contemporary Australian cultural identity, even in suburban settings like Albert Park. The construction of the house was a two-stage process. The existing house remained on-site while the first half of the new house was built adjacent to it, after which the old structure was demolished. Bandy's resourcefulness was evident in using the couple's Toyota 4x4 as scaffolding. The house was designed with a solar-boosted gas hydronic heating system, advanced for its time in 1974, though the solar components were never fully connected. This system included copper pipework in the ground floor slab and pipes under a north-facing glass panel on the roof, intended to circulate solar-heated water. Additionally, this water was meant to flow over the copper fireplace surround to augment heating during winter, creating a sculptural aesthetic that Joy admired. The absence of traditional guttering and plumbing on the roof meant rainwater was collected in buckets for garden irrigation. The temporary kitchen remained in use for over three decades, completed only after Bandy's death. Bandy, who opened his own practice in 1976, became known for his residential projects, demonstrating ingenuity with small spaces and novel structural systems. He also designed and built furniture, showcasing his hands-on approach. Despite not completing his architecture degree, he was highly respected in the profession, eventually registering as an architect and being approached for master's studies. He passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy that, while not widely published, was significant within the architectural community. His book, "Col Bandy Architecture: A Few Good Projects," offers a glimpse into his work. Joy describes the house as an "unfinished symphony," an ever-evolving project, with her continued efforts to complete elements like tiling the bath, still finding packets of cedar lining left by Col. The article is part of the Houses magazine Revisited series, highlighting a residential project that embodies a unique architectural philosophy and a personal journey of creation. #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #SelfBuiltHome #MelbourneArchitecture #BushExpression #ChamferStyle #ExperimentalDesign #ColBandy #SustainableDesign

Charlotte and Angus Buchanan, London-based designers and cofounders of Buchanan Studio, have transformed their Edwardian townhouse in Harlesden, northwest London, into a working laboratory for their design experiments. The couple, who are avid bath-takers, designed their primary bathroom around a central antique tub, aiming to recreate a luxurious, hotel-like experience. To maintain this aesthetic, they conceived "sheds" – 8-foot-tall structures clad in dusty pink and white zellige tile – to conceal the shower and toilet from view. These structures, named by their children, feature salvaged wood doors from an old bank, which, when closed, resemble miniature gable-roof houses, adding a romantic and unexpected touch to the bathroom. The experimental approach extends to other areas of the home, notably the kitchen, which features restaurant-grade stainless steel surfaces. Angus Buchanan emphasizes the material's durability and practicality, highlighting its use in commercial kitchens worldwide. The kitchen is further enhanced by overhead skylights and a heated concrete floor, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The townhouse also serves as an archive for their furniture designs. The dining table on wheels was an early creation, while their popular pillowy Studio Chair, first marketed in 2020, gained significant demand, leading to the development of various fabric options, including the Ticking Rose print found throughout the home, such as on curtains flanking the front door. Even small fabric scraps are put to use, with Angus rerigging a sail for an antique toy boat on the primary bathroom's fireplace mantel using the Ticking Rose material. The renovation process involved navigating London's building permit regulations. The Buchanans initially sought to add a modern extension for their new kitchen and dining area. Their consultant helped them gain approval for the necessary square footage by creatively applying to build multiple small garden sheds, which were subsequently combined into a single extension, illustrating their resourcefulness in overcoming bureaucratic hurdles. The home also includes a tiny powder room under the stairs, a common feature in London houses, which Angus, drawing from his background in set design, personalized with hot-glued fuzzy red trim on the walls and mirror, complementing its pink and red color scheme. Delft tile remnants from the living room threshold were used to frame the small sink in this powder room. The formal living area features a Studio Sofa, Studio Ottoman, and Studio Chair from Buchanan Studio, complemented by a vintage Murano glass chandelier sourced after an extensive online search. The challenge of finding an uncolored Murano fixture led to a cautious installation process. A new bathroom for the children, created as part of the garden extension, showcases a playful design. Inspired by a vintage pink toilet and sink from the 1960s, the space features a whimsical checkered tile layout. Charlotte notes her daughter's involvement in the design and her affection for her "princess bathroom," underscoring the aim to create an energetic and entertaining space for bath time, providing a source of joy even after a long day. Beyond their design endeavors, the Buchanans maintain a small library, offering a convenient source for captivating reads during their frequent baths. This collection also serves as a last-minute gift resource for friends, with unique titles chosen to match individual interests. The London townhouse, therefore, embodies a blend of innovative design, practical solutions, and personal touches, serving as both a residence and a dynamic creative space for the design duo. #LondonHome #EdwardianTownhouse #InteriorDesign #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign #CustomFurniture #Renovation #BuchananStudio #TileDesign

Irene Gunter's inaugural large-scale project involved the interior architectural redesign of a family home in southwest London, a property that, despite its period-style facade, was only constructed in 2021. The design brief from the clients emphasized creating a home that was simultaneously family-friendly, comfortable, elegant, luxurious, fun, and informal. A key requirement was stylistic harmony throughout the residence, ensuring a cohesive flow between rooms while incorporating vibrancy and unexpected color in specific areas. The interior was intended to be uplifting and engaging, moving away from a bland, neutral aesthetic. Irene Gunter's approach centered on a carefully curated color palette predominantly featuring blues and greens, augmented by warmer tones. She stressed the importance of layering these colors to ensure they supported each other and maintained compatibility. Comfort was a paramount consideration, leading to meticulous selection and testing of furniture, such as dining chairs, to guarantee their suitability and durability. The designer collaborated with trusted craftsmen for custom pieces like sofas, relying on their proven track record. Among the standout spaces in the home is the formal sitting room, which features extensive paneling painted in a 'seductive light pink.' This choice was strategic, as the room is north-facing, and a simple white would have appeared flat. The pink hue was selected to imbue the space with warmth and comfort, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming and elegant. The use of curved sofas and a rounded ottoman in this room not only enhances circulation but also addresses practical concerns related to young children, eliminating sharp corners. In contrast to the serene sitting room, the kitchen introduces a bold punch of navy blue, adding a dramatic element to the design. The high ceilings of the house were leveraged to create a sense of grandeur while simultaneously making the expansive space feel intimate and cozy. The design incorporated a blend of materials, including stone, tiles, and wood, to introduce texture and visual interest. A robust quartz was chosen for the work surfaces, complemented by a wood finish on the island and larder unit. Kit kat tiles on the splashback were used to introduce a Japanese aesthetic, further enriching the material palette. Olive green bar stools were strategically placed to connect the interior with the garden views, maintaining the theme of harmony. Pale wood was used to link the island and the larder unit, which was designed to resemble a free-standing piece. Reeded details on the larder unit and island echoed the pattern of the tiles, creating subtle connections throughout the space. The overall effect is a home that is inviting and warm, achieved through layered textures, playful colors, and a distinct personality, reflecting the designer's vibrant, colorful, and sophisticated style. #InteriorDesign #HouseDesign #LondonHome #NewBuild #ColorPalette #InteriorArchitecture #CustomFurniture #FamilyHome #ElegantInteriors

John Marsala and Becka Citron, the creative and business partners behind Modern Anthology, have shifted their focus to interior design services after closing their physical retail stores in Dumbo and Cobble Hill. This move builds on their original business model, as interior design was their primary focus before venturing into retail. Their signature industrial chic aesthetic, previously evident in their stores, is now a hallmark of their interior design projects, such as the Dumbo loft featured in this article. The project involved furnishing a 2,400-square-foot loft for a young couple with a small child. The loft, located in a converted industrial building, retained original features like exposed brick and wooden columns. The designers were tasked with creating a functional and stylish living space, moving away from the clients' initial plans for fully custom-made furnishings. A key structural change was the addition of a dividing wall to create a dedicated den/TV area, separating it from the main living space. The primary focus, however, was on sourcing new furnishings, predominantly from retail outlets. The design choices were influenced by the homeowners' existing art collection, which included quirky pieces such as a framed print humorously stating ‘I was young and needed the money’ and a striking, large-scale portrait. These artworks signaled to Citron that the clients were open to bold design elements and did not wish for an overly conventional approach. The designers integrated these artistic cues into a cohesive design that blended industrial elements with comfort and personality. Key furniture selections included a Chesterfield-style sofa and egg-shaped mid-century chairs from Restoration Hardware, demonstrating a blend of classic and modern aesthetics. A vintage wing chair was given a distinctive update with plastic-coated fabric imprinted with street signs on the back and a tailored pin stripe on the front. An over-dyed vintage rug from Nomadic Trading Company added texture and color, while a Serge Mouille wall-mounted sconce provided sophisticated lighting. For the informal breakfast area, blue vintage chairs paired with a Saarinen-style pedestal table created a casual yet elegant spot. The dining area features a live-edge table complemented by wire chairs reminiscent of Eames designs from Modernica. A long hallway leading to the bedrooms was transformed into a gallery space, displaying framed photos and art unified by simple wood and metal frames. The primary bedroom maintained a warm ambiance with natural brick, furnished with a bed by Brooklyn-based Uhuru Design, a dresser by L.A.-based designer Thomas Bina, and a chandelier from Apparatus, further emphasizing the blend of industrial roots with contemporary design. This project exemplifies Modern Anthology's ability to create warm, functional, and industrially chic interiors using a mix of sourced retail pieces and thoughtful design interventions. #DumboLoft #InteriorDesign #ModernAnthology #IndustrialChic #HomeRenovation #BrooklynDesign #FurnitureSourcing #ResidentialDesign

James Baker's curiosity was piqued by a boxy building near the Baton Rouge Country Club, hidden behind a tall, vine-covered barrier, recognizing its departure from the traditional south Louisiana architectural style. One Sunday, he discovered the secluded home was for sale and scheduled an open house. This timing was serendipitous, as he and his wife, Marsha, had been contemplating building a new home. Upon visiting, they were immediately captivated by the property's design, which featured massive windows looking out onto a lush private garden and a dramatically designed pool. Within days, they made an offer on the house. The home’s appealing features—streamlined structural details, an open floor plan, ample space for art, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living—are characteristic of the tropical modern architectural movement prevalent in Miami. The house, built a dozen years prior, reflected the original owner’s preference for this South Florida aesthetic. Consistent with tropical modern design, tall and wide windows and doors throughout the home offer expansive views of the landscape and water features. Polished marble flooring extends from the interior to the exterior, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel. The overall ambiance is Zen-like, filled with natural light, and conducive to relaxed living, offering a warmer interpretation of typical modernism. Despite their previous homes being more traditional, the Bakers found the contemporary vibe of this house perfectly suited for their extensive and growing art collection, which primarily consists of bold and abstract pieces. The home's empty white walls provided ideal gallery spaces for displaying art acquired during their travels, as well as works by Louisiana artists sourced through Ann Connelly Fine Art in Baton Rouge and Soren Christensen Gallery in New Orleans. For the renovation, the Bakers enlisted Todd Normand of Bernhard Normand Construction. The project involved relocating a bar nook in the main open room to a separate living area, adding a fireplace and bookshelves to the opposite side of the room, and redesigning the master bathroom to include a sleek vanity alcove. Designers Helaine Moyse and Patrick Tandy, long-term collaborators with the Bakers, helped integrate the couple’s existing classic furniture with new contemporary pieces. This blend is exemplified in the dining area, where an 8x8-foot abstract painting by Meredith Pardue is framed by Venetian glass sconces and paired with a weathered antique Spanish dining table. Marsha noted that the mix of antique and modern elements, encouraged by the designers, prevented the space from feeling overly contemporary, maintaining a sense of warmth. The existing kitchen, featuring contemporary glass, metal, and exotic wood cabinet panels, initially challenged Marsha’s preference for all-white kitchens. However, replacing the dark granite backsplash with a multi-hued linear version brightened the space, and she eventually grew to appreciate its unique style, especially noting James's enjoyment of cooking there. Marsha, alongside friends Stacey Davis and Stacy Johnson, recently launched Envy, a decorating firm that began with holiday décor and expanded into full-service design. Through Envy, Marsha sourced window treatments and other furnishings for their new home, adding personal touches to the already impressive structure. The couple also took on most of the landscaping themselves, incorporating ferns, elephant ears, and other tropical-inspired plants around existing palm trees, with some natural materials from Red Onion and additional trees from Steve Rowley of Hydro-Scapes. They enjoy working in the flowerbeds and spending evenings on their marble-floored porch, which remains shaded and comfortable, watching the sunset with their three dogs. The once-mysterious home has become a cherished, comfortable space for the Bakers. #ModernArchitecture #TropicalModernStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #OpenFloorPlan #OutdoorLiving #LouisianaHomes #BatonRouge

Polysmiths, an architecture studio based in London, has designed and built Cork House in east London, utilizing cork panels for both internal and external surfaces. This project was developed during the Covid-19 lockdown, a period characterized by material shortages and increased costs for conventional building materials. Charles Wu, the director of Polysmiths, acted as the architect, client, and developer for this three-bedroom house, which serves as his own residence. Initially, Wu planned to construct the house using traditional blockwork and timber frames. However, the pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and price surges for materials like concrete, plasterboard, and plywood necessitated a pivot. This led Wu to explore and adopt more affordable and sustainable alternatives. The house's construction ultimately relied on locally sourced timber and lime plaster, complemented by cork paneling throughout. The use of cork, sourced from Portuguese firm Amorim via a Welsh supplier, was a deliberate choice to enhance the building's sustainability credentials and address material availability. Cork, harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, is an excellent insulator and was treated to meet fire-proofing standards. Wu noted that beyond its functional benefits, cork contributes a unique multi-sensory quality to the home, emitting a subtle, pleasant aroma akin to charred wood and offering a rich texture and color that interacts dynamically with light. Cork House is situated on a rectangular brownfield site in Forest Gate, nestled among the walled gardens of neighboring terraced houses. This urban context presented a challenge in terms of natural light penetration. To overcome this, Wu incorporated innovative design elements such as internally facing courtyards to facilitate cross-ventilation and allow ample daylight into the interior. Building height restrictions also led to the excavation of part of the site, resulting in a split-level interior that adds architectural interest and maximizes space utilization. The layout of Cork House features an entrance hallway that connects to an open-plan kitchen, dining area, and lounge. A central lightwell and staircase separate these communal spaces from two bedrooms and a shower room at the rear, creating distinct public and private zones on the ground floor. The main courtyard is designed with fully openable folding glass doors, enabling a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living areas, a concept inspired by Wu's childhood experiences in Australia. Additional skylights, high-level windows, and a smaller void further ensure that natural light permeates deep into the home. The lower ground floor houses the main bedroom, which overlooks a courtyard situated at the base of the larger lightwell. The en-suite bathroom also benefits from natural light channeled through this corner lightwell. Wu regards Cork House as an embodiment of "beautiful sustainability," showcasing an experimental approach to self-building that arose from challenging circumstances. He advocates for architects to undertake similar projects, viewing them as opportunities to prototype new materials and innovative living solutions. The project highlights cork's growing popularity as a natural and renewable material in contemporary architecture. #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CorkCladding #LondonHouses #SelfBuild #MaterialInnovation #Polysmiths #ArchitecturalExperimentation

Metricon has unveiled its latest collection of display homes at SkyRidge, showcasing a fusion of thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship tailored for the contemporary home upgrader. These four residences are engineered to embody light-filled, intelligent, and insightful designs, seamlessly blending local Australian aesthetics with enduring functionality. Each home at SkyRidge is characterized by a cohesive layout that balances sophistication with practicality, ensuring that every space enhances the rhythm of daily life. The design philosophy centers on creating bright, fresh, and warm atmospheres, offering open social areas for gatherings, and incorporating intuitive zoning to provide both privacy and connection. This approach defines modern living at its peak. Adrian Popple, Metricon’s Design Director, emphasizes that customers seek more than just a house; they desire a home that feels welcoming and meticulously considered. This philosophy is evident across the SkyRidge display homes, where every space serves a purpose, the kitchen acts as the central hub, and natural light freely flows through open-plan living areas, culminating in a modern yet timeless expression. The collection includes the Waterford 47, which makes a bold statement in modern contemporary design with its Pacific façade, featuring striking cantilevers and geometric forms. This home offers a well-appointed guest suite, an entertainer’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, and expansive living spaces with dramatic ceiling voids. Upstairs, it provides three bedrooms with ensuites and a secluded master suite. Its interiors are marked by sleek dark cabinetry, metallic accents, and statement tiles. The Vantage 48, with its Las Palmas façade, draws inspiration from Palm Springs, showcasing mid-century modern charm through clean lines and expressive details. It boasts grand voids and an arched window that illuminate the open-plan living and dining areas, extending seamlessly to an outdoor entertaining space. The upper level includes a master retreat and additional bedrooms. The interior design of the Vantage 48 features curved forms, pastel accents, and a sophisticated wine storage room. The Clara 27, presenting the Escape façade, blends traditional elements with modern sensibilities. It features a private bedroom wing, a media room, and open-plan living areas. The kitchen, equipped with a walk-in pantry and raked ceilings, is positioned as the heart of the home. Scandi Luxe interiors, incorporating veined tiles, soft hues, and brass finishes, contribute to its warm and understated luxury. Completing the collection is the Marion 40, featuring the classic Princeton façade, which combines refined aesthetics with functional design. A grand entry leads to a light-filled stair foyer and a study. The master suite upstairs includes two walk-in robes, a private balcony, and an indulgent ensuite. This home offers multi-zoned living to ensure both privacy and connection, with coastal-inspired interiors in crisp whites and soothing greys creating a serene atmosphere. Popple highlights the kitchen in the Marion 40 as a highly functional and welcoming space, enhanced by carefully selected lighting. These homes collectively underscore Metricon’s dedication to quality and innovation, providing prospective homebuyers with a vision of an elevated lifestyle. Located at Parkway Circuit, Worongary 4213, these display homes are open daily for exploration. #HomeDesign #ModernLiving #MetriconDisplayHomes #SkyRidge #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #FamilyHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeUpgraders