Reworking the floorplan of this 1930s semi-detached house has created the perfect family home

This article details the transformation of a 1930s house in Hyde Park, Austin, Texas, by designer Ali Burgoon Nolan of Studio Burgoon. The property, originally built in 1939, had been untouched for 50 years and lacked character and a functional layout, despite its desirable location. The renovation aimed to reintroduce period charm, create a more livable flow, and personalize the space with vintage furniture and collected decor. The initial phase of the project involved a significant reconfiguring of the home's layout. The living room was relocated from a front bedroom to the back of the house, which previously served as the primary bedroom. This change was crucial for establishing a seamless indoor-outdoor connection between the kitchen, living room, and backyard, accommodating the homeowners' love for entertaining and cooking. Furthermore, an original bedroom was converted into a mudroom and laundry room, complemented by a new side entry porch. To compensate for the loss of a bedroom and expand the living space, a two-story addition was constructed at the back of the home. This addition created a spacious great room downstairs and a serene primary suite upstairs, which has become the heart of the home, offering a peaceful, treehouse-like retreat with views of the lush backyard greenery. With the functional layout established, the focus shifted to injecting character and authenticity into the decor. Ali Burgoon Nolan drew inspiration from classic Arts and Crafts architecture, blending historic details with a cozy, lived-in style that felt true to the property's era. Efforts were made to uncover and celebrate original features, such as longleaf pine shiplap. New elements, like transom windows with mouth-blown restoration glass, were carefully integrated to enhance the home's historic character. Vintage-inspired accents were strategically placed throughout the house to add layers of story and soul, creating a space that feels both refined and approachable. Notable design elements include a custom home bar and media unit crafted from old-growth, quarter-sawn white oak, featuring distinctive heavy ray fleck patterns. The bar incorporates architectural waffle glass in its upper cabinets, providing a vintage texture that complements the home’s 1930s roots and subtly concealing a collection of vintage cocktail glasses. The primary bedroom stands out as a tranquil retreat, designed with luxurious features such as motorized drapes, custom furniture, and an authentic tripod table by French designer Charles Dudouyt. Custom nightstands with finger joint drawer details and integrated charging cutouts highlight the blend of functionality and aesthetics. The custom bed, upholstered in Virginia Kraft Moroccan Stripe fabric, is set against an olive board-and-batten wall. Personal touches abound, including an English campaign-style dresser, a commissioned triptych inspired by the homeowner's travels, and an antique tapestry, all contributing to a unique and meaningful design. A pendant light by Josef Hoffmann with a terracotta tassel provides a subtle sculptural elegance, completing the cohesive and inspiring atmosphere. The thoughtful integration of vintage pieces, personal mementos, and period-appropriate craftsmanship has successfully revived the 1930s home, honoring its origins while creating a comfortable and inviting contemporary living space. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #VintageFurniture #PeriodCharm #ArtsAndCrafts #LayoutReconfiguration #HomeBar #PrimaryBedroom #CustomFurniture #TexasHome

Briony and Peter, homeowners of a 1930s semi-detached house in Enfield, North London, embarked on a significant renovation project to transform their cramped and dated kitchen into a modern, open-plan kitchen-diner. Upon purchasing the property, the couple recognized the potential in the two adjoining downstairs reception rooms but noted that the kitchen, accessible through a small archway, felt detached and was in a state of disrepair with rotting windows, doors, and a lino floor. This area presented the most extensive structural challenge and was therefore prioritized for renovation. The couple hired an architect to help them balance their vision with practical and cost-effective solutions. Initially, Briony wanted to remove a wall and expose a brick column, but the architect advised against it due to the minimal aesthetic benefit compared to the high cost. This guidance helped them make informed decisions to optimize their budget. They sought quotes from several builders, eventually selecting a smaller company for a more personalized and consistent working relationship, ensuring a familiar face on-site throughout the project. A key design decision involved the kitchen units. Briony, who had always favored navy, chose Atlantic Blue for the cabinetry. Pluck Kitchens, the bespoke kitchen company they collaborated with, recommended incorporating pink as an accent color and featuring a different wood type for the larder, guiding the couple towards a refined and integrated design rather than simply fulfilling all their initial requests. The design included ample built-in storage to keep worktops clear and functional. Unexpected costs were a reality of the renovation, with the couple exhausting their 15 percent contingency fund. An example was the discovery and replacement of a nail-damaged water pipe during excavation. However, some increased expenses were conscious choices, such as opting for microcement flooring instead of wood. While slightly more expensive, the microcement, which required underlay installation, was still within their budget and ultimately became a cherished feature of the home. The couple secured additional mortgage funds to cover the project's costs. The renovated space now serves as a vibrant entertaining area. The open-plan layout allows guests to socialize with Briony while she cooks, and internal French screen doors provide the option to close off the living room for a cozier atmosphere or sound barrier when desired. The new kitchen, with its dark blue units and striking microcement floor, has become a central talking point and seamlessly integrates with the living area, fulfilling the couple's desire for a home that facilitates gatherings and reflects their personality. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanKitchen #1930sHouse #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #KitchenDiner #MicrocementFlooring

Shane Stratton, owner of Stratton Exteriors and Urban Properties in Nashville, undertook the renovation of a 1930s bungalow-style duplex, transforming it into a 3,100-square-foot single-family home. The project began in late 2013 with the intention for Shane and his fiancée, Paige, to live there after their wedding. Collaborating with architect David Baird of Building Ideas, they developed an open floor plan suitable for entertaining, which involved significantly altering the internal architecture while preserving the front exterior and stone siding. The original 1,800-square-foot duplex was expanded, reflecting a meticulous and unhurried approach to design and construction. A key element of the renovation is the kitchen, which features an island painted in Stratton Blue by Benjamin Moore, a color originally considered for the exterior. This vivid blue island serves as a focal point, complemented by rustic wooden beams salvaged from an old warehouse. The design seamlessly blends a cook's kitchen aesthetic with an open and relaxing atmosphere, offering a view of the fireplace. The couple's collaboration involved Paige directing the floor plan post-marriage, while Shane focused on integrating details that honored the home's history, such as salvaging much of the original flooring. This approach successfully fused traditional elements with modern features like wainscoting and a contemporary fireplace design, keeping the home fresh and updated. After completing the renovation, Shane and Paige decided to sell the home, despite their emotional connection to the project. Shortly after listing, Michael Lohmann, director of photography for ABC’s "Nashville," discovered the property. He was immediately drawn to its exterior, open-living floor plan, large windows, and the kitchen's rustic beams. Lohmann recognized that these features created a unique look that aligned with the personality of the show and its character, Gunnar Scott, a young, successful musician. The home's suitability for filming was further enhanced by its "great depth in every direction," ample spaces, and the newly added garage, which was converted into a recording studio for the show. The renovated home now serves as Gunnar Scott's residence in the third season of "Nashville." Lohmann emphasized that the home's aesthetic fit the character by presenting a realistic aspiration for a successful musician, noting its unique look. The article highlights how the renovation successfully balanced contemporary design with traditional elements, integrating reclaimed materials like original flooring and wooden beams to add rustic charm, while modern features ensured functionality and style. The interior spaces are characterized by natural light, open layouts, and a harmonious blend of textures and colors. Additional details of the renovation include an updated farmhouse look in the bathroom, featuring six-foot tile pieces mimicking barn wood and granite countertops. The first-floor master bedroom is spacious with rich hardwood floors and abundant natural light. The second floor also benefits from an open layout, maximizing living and entertaining areas. The exterior additions increased the home to over 3,000 square feet, offering four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and an outdoor patio space. Resources for mimicking the home's style are provided, including specific brands and paint colors, alongside design tips from Shane Stratton emphasizing the blending of old and new elements, and the strategic placement of architectural details like accent walls, beams, or posts to create eclectic appeal. #HomeRenovation #BungalowStyle #NashvilleRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OpenFloorPlan #KitchenDesign #RusticModern #ArchitecturalSalvage #TelevisionSetDesign

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign

This article details the comprehensive renovation and interior design of a 1970s ranch home in Brentwood, TN, undertaken by its second owner, Tyler Pennington. Having admired the house since childhood, Tyler purchased it from the original owners and embarked on a transformation project to update it for his family of five while preserving its original architectural charm, which he describes as reminiscent of the New England coast. The renovation involved reconfiguring the internal space, adding a second story, and selecting finishes and furnishings to suit a modern lifestyle with young children, without sacrificing its classic aesthetic. Tyler, who owns White Pines Building Group, managed much of the construction work himself. He collaborated with architect Champ Webb of C.W. Design and Andrew King of AK Designs for the second-story addition and exterior elements. For the interior design, he enlisted Sara Ray Interior Design, aiming for a contemporary look that avoided excessive modernity or trendiness. Sara Ray focused on creating a design that blended classic, traditional elements with clean lines and modern touches, prioritizing durable fabrics for furnishings and incorporating vintage rugs to withstand daily wear and tear from three young children. The design also balanced masculine and feminine touches, with a deliberate emphasis on timeless pieces that would retain their appeal over decades. Throughout the renovation, Tyler made efforts to integrate natural and historically relevant materials. While the interior was largely gutted, original materials were reused, and aspects of the original design were recreated. For instance, new poplar molding was installed in the entryway and dining room, hardwood floors were milled locally in Leiper’s Fork, and windows were designed to replicate the original grid pattern. A significant part of the project involved relocating the original fireplace, with its salvaged limestone being repurposed to create a new, two-story focal point in the central living area. The main floor features an open layout with a living area, dining area, and kitchen. The living space, characterized by a wall of doors and a double-story ceiling, displays a masculine-meets-modern aesthetic with warm accent colors against a white backdrop. The renovated kitchen prioritizes brightness, featuring a large center island, a tile backsplash, a polished limestone hood, and light fixtures with brass shades. The dining room, located off the main entry, showcases a reclaimed wood table with an industrial base, brass-foot chairs, and upholstered end chairs, all illuminated by a modern light fixture. Other rooms, such as the powder room, continue the theme of simple design with character. The children's bedrooms were designed with personalized touches. The oldest daughter's room is colorful, while the youngest daughter's features pinks and frills. The middle child's room incorporates antelope wallpaper and a vintage brass deer head, reflecting his interest in hunting. Bathrooms feature muted color schemes, penny tile flooring, and unique fixtures. The second floor accommodates a guest bedroom, children's bedrooms, a playroom, and a study area, while the third floor includes a sleeping nook with bunk-style beds and another playroom with a slide connecting to the second floor. The exterior of the house largely maintains its original appearance, with subtle updates such as a cedar roof, copper gas lanterns, updated stonework, and custom corbels. The transformation successfully merges the home's historic essence with modern family living, ensuring its continued admiration. #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #ClassicModern #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalPreservation #SustainableDesign #SaraRayInteriors #NashvilleHomes

Shanti Crawford of Indigo & Ochre Design transformed a 2,600-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse in Brooklyn from a "modern white box" into a vibrant, functional family home. The clients, a family with three daughters and a dog, sought to add warmth, color, character, and personality to the new build, which initially felt cold and barren. Crawford's approach emphasizes socially responsible and sustainable design, reflected in her use of colorful, thoughtfully collected, and layered decor. The primary goal was to create distinct and intimate areas within the open-plan layout, allowing each family member to engage in various activities simultaneously, such as working, studying, socializing, dining, and playing music. This was achieved through strategic furniture arrangements, custom built-ins, and the transformative power of color. AThe design process began with the clients' desire for a fresh start, especially as their children were growing older. Crawford provided guidance from the pre-closure phase, focusing on integrating character into the developer's clean, modern aesthetic. Key to her design was the incorporation of beloved pre-existing items, including a massive patchwork kilim from Morocco and a rustic sideboard. She aimed to ensure these pieces felt intentionally integrated and harmonized with the new, streamlined elements of the apartment. Crawford used color as a declarative element to define spaces. For example, the entryway was painted in a pale pink hue, Benjamin Moore Wheatberry, which subtly appears in other areas of the home, creating a cohesive visual flow. The entry also features practical storage solutions like hooks, baskets, and cubbies from Room & Board to accommodate the active family's needs. Texture was added through a ceramic disc wall hanging and a woven Tuareg mat. In the living room, the vibrant patchwork Moroccan kilim served as the primary inspiration for the color palette, influencing the selection of seating, artwork, and accessories. Crawford also introduced a gentle antique Oushak rug to complement the kilim without competing with its intricate patterns. The dining room features the clients' cherished kilim, anchored by a sleek Artisan Latus table and Gubi Beetle chairs, with brass legs that echo other metallic accents in the adjacent sitting area. This intentional mix of rustic and modern elements ensures balance and visual interest. The family room, referred to as a 'snug,' was designed to be a cozy, intimate space. It was painted in a warm, deep gray, including the ceilings, to embrace the lack of natural light. Deep jewel tones and lush textures, such as velvet upholstery, were incorporated, along with a vintage Heriz carpet to add personality. Custom walnut shelving units were built to span an entire wall, providing depth and delineation, and housing a Samsung TV and Noguchi Akari floor lamp. The master bedroom was conceived as a serene retreat, adhering to principles of "soothing neutral colors, simple and clean lines, texture over pattern." The primary colors are neutral, with subtle pops of deep color from peacock sconces and a luminous mouth-blown carafe and glass. The bed frame is custom, and the bedding and throw are from Wolves Within. The study, designed for multiple functions including a home office, occasional guest bedroom, and storage, features a custom-designed built-in bookshelf that frames a Kalon Studios daybed. A vintage Paul McCobb desk and a vintage Swedish Kilim rug complete the space, demonstrating how distinct areas were created while maintaining an open flow within the larger apartment. The collaboration with landscape designer Laura Harmon of LFH Studio for plants further enhanced the natural integration of the design. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentDecor #FamilyHome #ColorPalette #CustomBuiltIns #StrategicFurniture #BrooklynDesign #VintageDecor #SustainableDesign

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

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

Interior designer Daniella Dolman embarked on a deeply personal renovation project, transforming her 1920s cottage in Hamilton, Ontario, into a functional and beautiful home for her growing family. Facing the challenge of adapting a small, character-filled property to meet modern family needs while preserving its original charm, Dolman focused on creating a space that balanced elegance with livability. The renovation expanded the cottage from one bathroom and a tiny kitchen to a three-bath, four-bedroom house, emphasizing light, openness, and soft colors. Dolman described the process as emotional, designing not just a house but a 'feeling' for her daughters. She aimed to carry forward her mother's legacy of a beautiful, orderly home, but through a softer, more personal approach. A key inspiration was a childhood memory of her grandmother's rose-colored bathroom, which evoked a sense of intimate, feminine warmth. The design incorporates playful and feminine elements, such as raw silk café curtains, slipcovered stools reminiscent of a bygone era, and custom millwork with delicate curves nodding to Art Deco femininity. Dolman emphasizes that the home is designed for delight in small things, inviting residents to eat cake, observe light on painted ceilings, and understand that elegance and joy can coexist. A major functional change involved reimagining the kitchen, which was originally small and disconnected. By opening walls and repurposing the former dining room, a larger, open-concept kitchen was created. This new kitchen became the emotional heart of the house, suitable for cooking, socializing, and working. A La Cornue range was a non-negotiable, along with quad doors connecting to the back studio, fostering indoor-outdoor living. A swooped-edge breakfast bar anchors the space, serving as a sculptural and practical gathering point. The kitchen's design prioritizes fluidity, connecting seamlessly with the reconfigured living and dining areas. The dining room features a bolder, buttery yellow color palette with black chairs for a dramatic contrast. An oversized pendant light acts as a sculptural focal point above a round marble dining table, chosen for its ability to foster intimate conversation. The ceiling, painted a joyful yellow, casts a golden glow, inspired by designer Rose Uniacke's restrained use of the color. The living room maintains a calm, neutral palette, with interest added through varied textures and layers, reflecting Dolman's vision of 'feminine whimsy and English drawing-room romance.' It's a space intended for family activities like reading and listening to music. The primary bedroom embraces depth and saturation with dark walls, softened by a pale pink custom headboard and Bella Notte linens to create an inviting atmosphere. The main bathroom features a floating double vanity carved from thick marble, with invisible hardware, aiming for an open, tonal, and intentional Parisian atelier aesthetic. Overall, the renovated home achieves a balance between curated design, functionality for family life, and a joyful, whimsical spirit. It combines bold color combinations and personal touches, blending nostalgia with modernity. The interior style is described as a 'quiet romance suspended between English charm and Parisian elegance,' utilizing a tender yet daring palette of powdered blush, sun-washed marigold, and deep eggplant. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CottageRemodel #FamilyHome #DesignInspiration #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign

In 2014, a house in the Meadow Lea neighborhood briefly served as a fraternity house set for the movie *Pitch Perfect 2*. Despite its temporary transformation into a chaotic film set, complete with beer pong tables and greasy pizza boxes, Whitney and Matt LaNasa saw beyond the props and recognized the potential for their future family home. The couple had already agreed to purchase the property, drawn to the Meadow Lea neighborhood's history and beautiful landscapes, particularly the house's large 1 1/4-acre lot shaded by oak and cypress trees, and its view of a rolling meadow and lake. Whitney, who specializes in restoring historic buildings, was keen on preserving the architecture of the well-built older home. Matt, having experience in home restoration and construction from assisting his parents and serving in the Marine Corps, was confident in his ability to oversee the renovation. After the film crew departed and the house officially became theirs, the LaNasas enlisted Matt's sister, architect Georgia LaNasa, and interior designer Anne McCanless, to re-envision the interior spaces. The renovation involved stripping the house down to its studs and opening up the galley kitchen by removing walls, creating an open-concept space that flows into the dining room and offers views of the backyard and lake. A new iron railing from DiStefano Designs & Fabrication now subtly divides the kitchen from the dining area. The renovation, which included installing new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, was completed in six months under Matt's diligent oversight. The revamped home successfully blends its midcentury origins with a more timeless and functional aesthetic suitable for a family with two young children. It features two distinct living spaces, allowing both children and parents to have their own areas while remaining connected. McCanless selected contemporary-lined seating, upholstered in spill-proof Sunbrella fabrics, making the furniture durable and child- and pet-friendly, ideal for a home designed for entertaining. Further functional improvements included relocating the upstairs laundry room to create a master closet, and establishing a new downstairs laundry area combined with a mudroom featuring cubbies for the children. The LaNasas envision a second phase of renovation in the future, which will include adding a new master suite. The experience has inspired Matt to continue restoring homes in the Southdowns area during his off-hours, driven by his passion for construction and remodeling. The family expresses deep affection for their Meadow Lea neighborhood, appreciating its country-like atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and the sense of community that values its historical setting. Various design elements and materials were sourced locally. The dining room, once a film set, now features a whitewashed table, silver-leafed geometric dining chairs from Texture, and a hydrangea-filled vessel from Red Onion. Other details came from McMillin Interiors and Dixon Smith Interiors. The kitchen boasts Carrara marble countertops and a beveled subway-tile backsplash, with dirty-top floors installed by Blaine Thibodeaux from Higgins company. The upper-level living area includes a Sunbrella-upholstered Thayer Coggin sofa, small tables, and a rug from Dixon Smith Interiors, alongside an antique breakfront cabinet. The lower-level living room is decorated with soft blue hues and contrasting colors, featuring Lee Industries club chairs, a gold-accented marble coffee table, and floor lamps from Dixon Smith Interiors, with throw pillows from Texture. Custom Paul Yanko multimedia artworks from Ann Connelly Fine Art adorn the walls. The master bedroom, designed as a serene retreat, includes a mirror-framed tufted bed with Ann Gish bedding from Texture and Tritter Feefer nightstands with lamps from Texture. The master bath, too, was updated with elegant touches like Carrara marble floors, a freestanding oval tub, and a Billie S. Bourgeois painting from Ann Connelly Fine Art. The existing pool underwent minor rehabbing by Lucas Firmin Pools, and landscape architect Cynthia Cash redesigned the front yard with Japanese yew and dwarf camellias to complement the existing live oak trees. #HomeRenovation #MidcenturyModern #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #MeadowLea #BatonRougeHomes #OpenConceptLiving

Emily and Jason Porche embarked on a significant home renovation project to transform a 1972 split-level ranch in Marietta into their envisioned 'forever home' with a modern farmhouse aesthetic. This extensive renovation, which began immediately after purchasing the property in 2017, involved adding an extra story, a garage, and opening up the interior spaces to create a more functional and cohesive living environment for their family of four. The architectural design for the project was handled by David Doran of Classical Concepts, while Jason's father, Clark Porche, owner of Monogram Homes, oversaw the construction. The family's objective was to create a comfortable space conducive to making lasting memories. The finished home spans 4,500 square feet, featuring five bedrooms and six bathrooms, blending the original split-level structure with contemporary farmhouse elements. Key renovations included constructing a new garage with a bedroom above it, connected to the main house by a breezeway with wooden swings, which quickly became a favorite spot. The Porches also covered a raised patio next to the pool, incorporating skylights to maximize natural light, making the outdoor space more enjoyable year-round. Inside, the main floor was reconfigured to create an open-concept layout, connecting the kitchen to the living areas and providing unobstructed views of the pool and the adjacent Indian Hills Country Club golf course. The kitchen, a central gathering point, features a 13-foot island, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances from Frigidaire Gallery Pro, and VIGO faucets. Lighting fixtures, such as pendants from Shades of Light and a Pottery Barn chandelier in the dining room, were chosen to enhance the modern farmhouse style. Emily Porche, a marketing professional who also blogs about interior design on theporcheplace.com, played a significant role in the interior design, maintaining a neutral palette with shades of white and cream, accented by brown tones in elements like the mantel, exposed beams, and leather armchairs. The girls' rooms are designed with a soft glow from Crystorama wall sconces from Build.com, and their shared bathrooms feature vanities and floor tile from Lowe's, mirrors from HomeGoods, and a PBteen chandelier. Practical upgrades included an expanded laundry room with Samsung appliances, a copper sink from Sinkology, and a Pottery Barn drying rack. The master bedroom features a tufted bed from Ballard Designs and a rug from Pottery Barn, further emphasizing the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Additional family-friendly spaces include a basement sunroom, which was adjusted to accommodate a flat-screen television and furnished with items from Pottery Barn and Ballard Designs. Jason Porche also custom-built a kegerator for the basement bar. The renovation extended to a creative play area for their daughters, transforming a Costco playhouse into a 'Porche City Market.' Throughout the project, the Porches prioritized creating a home that not only reflected their style but also served as a backdrop for their family life. #HomeRenovation #FarmhouseStyle #SplitLevelTransformation #InteriorDesign #CobbCountyHomes #MariettaRealEstate #FamilyHome #ModernFarmhouse #ArchitecturalDesign

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

Antiques dealer Jennifer Maxcy, known for her affinity for small, cozy interiors, transformed a 1,143-square-foot post-and-beam ranch-style house from 1959 in California's Ventura County into a highly functional and open living space. Faced with a compact home for her family, including husband Mike, son Adam, and two English springer spaniels, Maxcy opted for an extensive renovation to maximize space and natural light. The core of the renovation involved a significant structural change: removing walls that separated the kitchen and a third bedroom. This created a single, expansive living area that she refers to as a "great room," emphasizing its multipurpose nature. To further enhance the feeling of openness and brightness, Maxcy addressed the home's original choppy layout and dark wood elements. She removed existing can lights and vaulted the ceilings, opening them up to the rafters. Subsequently, the ceilings, walls, and trim were coated in a crisp, bright white paint, which was Glidden's base paint in semigloss, chosen for its true white tone without any undertones. This color scheme, applied uniformly, significantly increased the amount of natural light within the home, contributing to an airy and spacious ambiance. Within this large open area, specific zones were defined. In the living room, a midcentury sofa, reupholstered in leather during the 1970s, was positioned on a vintage Moroccan rug, providing a clear distinction for the lounging area. A floor-to-ceiling storage nook was incorporated to keep various items like books, blankets, and firewood organized and accessible. An X bench served as a versatile piece of furniture, functioning as a coffee table, footstool, or extra seating. Adjacent to this was a den, designed with careful consideration for scale. Here, 30-inch-tall barrel chairs were chosen to avoid overwhelming the space, unlike larger wingbacks would. Horizontal ticking stripes and slats on the coffee table were used to create an illusion of width, contributing to the open feel. The dining area featured a built-in banquette, which efficiently maximized both seating and storage. These built-ins were ingeniously crafted from leftover kitchen cabinets, repurposed and installed on their sides. Indigo-colored pillows in this area tied into other blue accents throughout the room, such as X benches and ottomans, while a rattan pendant light and basket added textural interest. In the newly opened kitchen, Maxcy forewent upper cabinets in favor of a single floating shelf, maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic. Pots were hung from an old bridle rack above the stove, contrasting against a white penny tile backsplash. The cabinets and quartz countertops were sourced economically from a closing kitchen showroom. To improve the appearance of a structural post in the vaulted ceiling, it was wrapped in nautical rope. A repurposed old workbench in the island provided hidden storage for dry goods, office supplies, and wrapping paper. Even a small workspace was integrated between the front door and the refrigerator. The desk was painted the same white as the walls to blend seamlessly, and a stainless steel appliance wall was disguised with barnwood. The overall design strategy focused on maximizing every inch of the home, utilizing repurposing and thoughtful design choices to create a cohesive, bright, and highly functional living environment tailored to the Maxcy family's needs. #RanchHomeRenovation #OpenFloorPlan #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #RepurposedDecor #HomeTransformation #AntiquesDealer #CaliforniaHomes #ModernFarmhouse

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

This article details the transformation of a dated, “cookie-cutter” tract house in Moorpark, California, into a charming and character-filled home. The property, a four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence, was initially lacking in personality despite its promising layout and abundant natural light. Madison Lussier of Madison Nicole Design spearheaded a comprehensive renovation to bring the homeowners' vision of a serene, timeless, and comfortable space to life. The clients, who primarily reside in Chicago and intended this as a second home for extended family, sought a design that balanced refinement with comfort. Their aesthetic preferences leaned towards warm natural materials, a soft, neutral palette, and an overall elegant yet lived-in feel. The goal was to create a home that felt collected, approachable, and easy to live in, with thoughtful details integrated throughout. The renovation encompassed every surface of the house, introducing new flooring, updated lighting, and custom millwork to enhance the architectural detailing. A significant part of the project involved redesigning the kitchen, which was previously disjointed. The new layout improved functionality and openness, incorporating custom cabinetry and an added walk-in pantry. Similarly, the two main living areas benefited from new custom cabinetry, serving both functional storage needs and providing focal points that grounded each room. The primary bathroom was transformed into a tranquil retreat, featuring organic textures and soft finishes, while bedrooms were imbued with a sense of warmth and coziness. One unique and favored detail of the renovation is a custom dog wash installed in the backyard. Reflecting the homeowners' love for animals, this feature utilized leftover zellige tiles and unlacquered brass fixtures, blending style with utility. This small yet significant addition highlights the personalized approach taken throughout the design process. The renovation successfully moved the house beyond its initial generic state, creating a peaceful, personal, and beautifully layered environment that the owners find welcoming and well-loved, making the entire process rewarding for the design team. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TractHouseMakeover #CustomCabinetry #MoorparkHome #MadisonNicoleDesign #HomeDecor #FunctionalDesign #TimelessDesign