Top-Floor Transformation: Elevated Living at the Carlyle

The article details the collaborative effort between Brooklyn-based architecture firm Worrell Yeung and cooperative gallery and design studio Colony to renovate a 3,000-square-foot historic loft overlooking Union Square in New York City. The project aimed to transform the triangular-shaped space into a contemporary residence suitable for homeowners, including a concert violinist, and also function as a recital venue for entertaining guests. The loft, which occupies an entire floor, was revitalized by Worrell Yeung, focusing on its fundamental geometries and classic materials. Worrell Yeung initiated the renovation by exploring strategies that emphasized the loft's distinct characteristics and preserved original elements. A key aspect of the design involved creating unique volumes to define spaces within the open layout, such as a custom metal screen and bookcase near the front door and a circular bathroom. The renovation optimized the space to offer unobstructed views from the 14 northwest-facing windows, resulting in a light-filled open loft environment. The design team aimed to enhance the existing structure rather than completely redesigning it, focusing on subtle yet impactful changes. Following Worrell Yeung's architectural design, Colony, led by founder and creative director Jean Lin, took charge of elevating the interior through carefully selected textures, patterns, and colors. Lin emphasized creating an elegant home by layering textures, colors, and comfort, ensuring these elements complemented the loft's open nature while adding personalized touches. The collaboration aimed to bridge the gap between monumental architectural design and the intimate signatures of a home. The furnishing choices reflect both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The living area, designed to accommodate musical recitals, features substantial seating arrangements. These include a moss green Bristol Sofa by Poliform, a Gentry Sofa by Moroso, and a Seal Chair by Brdr Petersen, all strategically placed around a circular Lania Rug by Woven, near a Mason & Hamlin grand piano. These pieces were selected to provide comfort for guests and complement the expansive feel of the space. A multifunctional den was incorporated into the design, offering flexibility as a home office or a more private space. This den can be closed off using sliding metal and glass doors, which discreetly recede behind the entryway bookshelf when open. The den features a black desk paired with a Wishbone Chair by Carl Hansen, blending functionality with modern design. The private areas of the loft are accessed via a hallway, where a cylindrical powder room is a notable feature. The powder room's interior is adorned with sage Mutina Biscuit ceramic tiles and a single slab of forest green Cipollino Apuano on the floor, providing a striking visual and textural contrast. The main bedroom, situated at the narrow end of the triangular layout, is furnished with a green Dubois Bed by De La Espada, flanked by smoked glass Crux Pendant Lights by Allied Maker. Tonal Precipice – Alpamayo wallpaper by Flat Vernacular adds further texture to the walls, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. The primary bathroom continues the theme of refined details, featuring a curved shower wall clad in white Mutina Biscuit ceramic tiles. The second bedroom, serving as both an office and a rehearsal space, includes a striped Arc Lounge Chair by Moving Mountains and Coven Wallpaper by Maison C, contributing to its dual-purpose functionality and artistic ambiance. This project marks the second collaboration between Worrell Yeung and Colony, highlighting their evolving design vernacular and their commitment to pushing the boundaries between architecture, interior design, and furniture, while prioritizing the client's needs and creating a truly bespoke home. #LoftTransformation #NewYorkCityLoft #WorrellYeung #ColonyDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #ContemporaryResidence #UnionSquare #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article details a significant renovation project undertaken by Shakespeare, Gordon, Vlado: Architects (SGVA) on a late 19th-century, four-story townhouse in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two young children, sought to address the common challenge of disconnectivity across multiple floors in townhouse living, aiming for better spatial interaction between family members and access to the garden. Architect Amy Shakespeare's innovative solution involved a complete gut renovation and a re-imagining of the internal floor levels in the lower half of the building. The redesign involved lowering the floor plate at the back of the house to create a sunken living room directly accessible at garden level. The kitchen's floor was also lowered, reducing the number of steps from the entry level and improving connectivity to both the entrance and the garden. This extensive structural modification was feasible due to the building's prior state, which consisted of four rundown apartments with no original features deemed worth preserving. The upper floors, the third and fourth, maintain a more traditional layout, accommodating a master bedroom, children's rooms, and additional bedrooms for visiting family. These floors also feature dedicated spaces for entertainment, such as movie-watching and video gaming nooks. Throughout the home, the design incorporates a predominantly white color palette, punctuated by bold, jewel-toned wall colors and dynamic textile patterns, adding vibrancy to the interiors. Upon entering, a vestibule and mudroom are located at the front, leading to a double-height library situated centrally in the floor plan. This library is distinguished by a striking wall of teal-colored bookshelves. Sustainable materials were a key consideration in the project, with extensive use of 100 percent certified wood, including fumed oak for the flooring. The double-height central space is illuminated by a Triad 15 light fixture from Apparatus. The sunken living room, furnished with a sectional sofa from B&B Italia, offers direct access to the garden. Visual transparency between spaces is enhanced by a glass panel incorporated into the kitchen's wood railing. The kitchen features a blue Lacanche range with nickel trim, a high-priority item for the clients, along with appliances from Sub-Zero/Wolf. The painted wood cabinetry was custom-built by the general contractor, Fulton Contracting. Nancy Angel, a Brooklyn-based designer, was responsible for all custom upholstery, including the dining area banquette adjacent to the kitchen. From the kitchen, an unobstructed view extends towards the front of the house, across the top of the library. Tempered glass and steel were used for the new stair railings, contributing to the open and modern aesthetic. The top floor includes a black-painted TV room, which also accommodates a queen-size platform bed for guests. On the exterior, the architects created a geometric composition on the blown-out back wall using standard-sized Marvin windows. Despite the lot being fully built out, a balcony was added by indenting the back wall to form a small terrace. The backyard was designed by Joanna Pertz Landscape Architecture, featuring a play area with a sandbox and swings at its far end. The project successfully transformed a multi-level townhouse into a cohesive and family-friendly living space. #ParkSlope #TownhouseRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyLiving #SGVA #FloorLevelModification #SustainableMaterials #BrooklynRealEstate

Garrow Kedigian, an interior designer, undertook the renovation of a 3,200-square-foot, four-bedroom prewar apartment on the Upper East Side for a young family with two children. The primary goal of the renovation was to preserve the historical charm of the home while integrating modern living conveniences. The apartment's untouched state for years necessitated significant upgrades to align with contemporary design and functionality. A standout feature of the apartment is its 50-foot-long entryway, which Kedigian dramatically enhanced. He incorporated grid wall paneling and a unique barrel ceiling. The ceiling is a detailed replica of the astrological map found on the vaulted ceiling of Grand Central Terminal, a familiar sight to many New York City commuters. To further elevate this design element, Kedigian installed tiny LED bulb lights to illuminate specific stars, creating a celestial ambiance. Kedigian also addressed the common issue of dropped ceilings in prewar apartments, which often hide the original architectural height. He meticulously restored the original ceiling heights throughout the home. This not only made the rooms feel more spacious but also allowed for the installation of more elegant pendant lighting, replacing previous recessed fixtures. Strategic color choices were integral to the design, ensuring the space felt inviting and cohesive. The kitchen, for example, features cabinets painted in Soft Chinchilla by Benjamin Moore, chosen to create a welcoming atmosphere. Kedigian emphasizes that kitchens should feel like rooms rather than purely utilitarian spaces, advocating for vibrant color choices. In many areas, the trim was painted in a contrasting color to the walls, adding depth and character to each room. Technology was cleverly integrated to maintain the home's aesthetic. All televisions in the apartment are designed to double as art when not in use. In the primary bedroom, the TV screen displays the same wallpaper pattern as the walls when turned off, ensuring a seamless visual flow. The furnishings and art throughout the apartment are a curated mix, combining finds from the Paris flea market—selected in collaboration with the clients—with mid-century modern pieces, reflecting the clients' eclectic taste. The living room exemplifies this eclectic approach, with an antique carpet from a Doyle auction setting the foundation. Lighting fixtures, including sconces and floor lamps, were sourced from the Paris flea market, with custom lampshades from Broome Lampshades and Oriental Lampshade. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Caribbean Teal with Wenge trim. An antique sofa was re-covered in a blush chevron velvet from Schumacher, complemented by custom pillows from Fabricut fabric. The art collection includes pieces from the Paris flea market, auction acquisitions, and existing client-owned works. For the dining room, Kedigian transformed the large space into a combined den and dining area. The dining table was repositioned near the windows to create space for sofa seating opposite the fireplace, enhancing its functionality and coziness. The color palette of blues and grays, accented with yellows and oranges, contributes to an inviting atmosphere. Key elements include wall paint in Lakeside Cabin by Benjamin Moore, a Hickory Pearson dining table, Circa Lighting sconces, and custom curtains. The furniture and decorative items, such as chairs and lamps, were also sourced from the Paris flea market, with vintage wall art and a small table, and the client's own mirror and candle holders. The primary bedroom features delicate Harlequin wallpaper adorned with butterflies and birds on willow-like branches. The linen and blush tones of the wallpaper are complemented by Benjamin Moore Rose Blush trim and neutral accents. Custom elements include the headboard, pillows, and bedding. In the children's bedroom, Kedigian aimed for a whimsical yet sophisticated design, incorporating vertical blue and yellow stripes reminiscent of a circus tent. The walls are painted in Alfresco and Hawthorne Yellow by Benjamin Moore, with Kingsport Grey trim. Custom pillows and bedspreads made from Cowtan & Tout and Colefax & Fowler fabrics, along with vintage bed frames, nightstands, and a ceiling light, complete the playful yet elegant design. These thoughtful design choices and upgrades ensure the apartment is set to age gracefully, providing a beautiful and functional home for the family. #UpperEastSide #ApartmentRenovation #InteriorDesign #GarrowKedigian #GrandCentralTerminalCeiling #NewYorkCityHome #LuxuryHome #EclecticDecor #PrewarApartment

A comprehensive renovation project was undertaken for a landmarked five-story brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, prompted by the structural deterioration of its rear wall. The initial repair evolved into a complete top-to-bottom transformation, encompassing significant architectural and interior design changes. The project involved the installation of a new three-story wood and glass window system on the rear facade, enhancing natural light and views. The formerly low-ceilinged attic space was converted into a skylit home office, complete with a kitchenette and access to a newly created roof terrace. The restoration work paid careful attention to preserving historical elements, including the meticulous repair and reinstallation of original lacy plasterwork and other intricate historic details throughout the house. Concurrently, the homeowner, an interior designer, curated an entirely new color palette and furnishings scheme, blending modern aesthetics with the home's 19th-century character. Built in 1850 in the Anglo-Italianate style, the house is part of a unique architectural complex where three row houses are designed to appear as a single, larger mansion. This architectural type, characterized by its approximately 16-foot width and absence of a high stoop, is a notable, albeit rare, feature of the neighborhood. The English basement primarily serves for storage, with utilities entering at this level. The first floor, historically the staff and kitchen area, was reconfigured to improve light, airflow, and sightlines. The front room was preserved as a cozy sitting area with an arched window, while the kitchen and dining area were relocated to the middle and rear, offering expansive views of the backyard. The elegant second floor, known as the _piano nobile_, features a grand staircase leading to a central hall that separates a formal living room at the front from a more casual family room at the rear. The decorative plaster crown moldings on this level were restored, and the staircase was reinforced and given new treads. The third and fourth floors are dedicated to bedrooms, with a primary suite on the third floor and children's rooms on the fourth. The primary suite's layout was reconfigured so that it is entered from a generous hallway in the center of the house, rather than at one end, which is typical for row houses. A fitted closet connects the bedroom and bathroom, with the two-level bathroom design dictated by plumbing considerations. Children's rooms and bathrooms on the fourth floor were designed with vibrant patterns and colors. In the former attic space, The Brooklyn Studio created a functional penthouse study and a central kitchenette/bar area that opens onto an outdoor deck with a brick fireplace. An oval glass insert in the kitchenette floor allows natural light from the new skylight and sliding glass doors to extend to the floor below. The kitchen features a custom brass stove hood, a marble backsplash with prominent veining, and hand-blown glass knobs by Danish artist Nina Norgaard on the stained oak millwork. The design prioritized an airy feel by minimizing upper cabinetry. Throughout the renovation, existing floor structures were maintained where possible, with new parquet veneer flooring laid over original surfaces in some areas to preserve the underlying structure. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #TheBrooklynStudio #HomeOffice #Kitchenette #RoofTerrace #StructuralRenovation

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

This article details the transformation of a four-bedroom California bungalow on Sydney's Lower North Shore, owned by designer Jennie Cadman of Periwinkle Interiors. The renovation was undertaken to accommodate her growing family, which includes her husband and four children, aged between two and 12. Despite having completed a renovation on their previous home nearby, it proved insufficient for their needs, prompting the family to acquire this bungalow in 2018. The property was appealing due to its 'great bones,' featuring high ceilings, spacious bedrooms, a predominantly single-level layout, and a generous backyard. Previous owners had also effectively utilized the attic space, converting it into an additional bedroom and a family room. However, the bungalow presented challenges, particularly its dark and inefficient floor plan in the 1990s addition. This section included a bedroom and laundry overlooking the garden, a space Jennie felt was better suited for a living area. A significant issue was the lack of kitchen bench space, compelling Jennie to prepare meals on the stovetop. To address these functional shortcomings and improve the home's flow, the family engaged architect Adam Hampton of Hampton Architecture in 2019. Their primary goals were to design a new extension with a living area that maximized garden views, reconfigure the misplaced bedroom, and incorporate an ensuite for their eldest child, who needed a private bathroom. Today, the renovated home features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that occupies almost the entire left side of the house. A distinct sitting room is situated between this open-plan space and the entry, while the main bedroom suite and family bathroom are located to the right of the entry. The children’s bedrooms now overlook the backyard, and the pitched roof of the upper level houses a study and a family room. The kitchen, designed as the central hub, connects seamlessly to the new living room and the backyard. A notable architectural feature of the extension is its pitched roofline, which mirrors the original front facade and achieves an impressive height of approximately 4 meters, enhanced by skylights, to create an expansive and airy feel. Innovative design choices include a 1.4x1.1-meter cool room in place of a traditional fridge, providing an efficient way to store groceries. Jennie also specifically requested that all storage be below bench height, accommodating her stature. In the dining area, French doors were added, opening onto a deck overlooking the front garden and pool, with a sheltered sitting area beneath. Windows in the children’s bedrooms were enlarged, and the attic family room gained a balcony to further integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The main bedroom was reconfigured to enlarge both the ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. The interior design, largely overseen by Jennie, showcases a bold navy blue palette, particularly prominent in the sitting room through artworks and soft furnishings. This is contrasted with vibrant pops of red and orange, seen in a Knoll ‘Womb’ chair and a patchwork kilim in the dining area. Jennie intentionally created a contrast between formal and informal spaces, with the casual living room being bright and airy, and the sitting room designed to be darker and more intimate. Texture plays a crucial role, with materials such as a linen modular sofa, linen curtains, timber floors, tongue-and-groove joinery, a concrete plinth, and a marble coffee table in the family room. The main bathroom features smooth marble, while the kitchen employs dolomite for benchtops and splashbacks, complemented by walnut veneer and brass finishes. Jennie identifies the sitting room as her favorite space, appreciating its cozy and enveloping atmosphere. #CaliforniaBungalow #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalExtension #OpenPlanLiving #NavyInteriors #CathedralCeilings #KitchenDesign #OutdoorLiving

The article details a successful loft conversion project in a narrow Victorian two-bedroom property, which was undertaken to address the growing space needs of a family with two children and a requirement for a guest room. The homeowners engaged Rees Architects, led by Daniel Rees, to expand their living area. The primary challenge was the limited ceiling height of only two meters in the original loft space, which would have been further reduced by the structural framework of the planned dormer. To overcome this, the architects ingeniously lowered the ceilings on the two floors below, creating a balanced and proportionally aligned three-story home rather than a cramped loft. The loft conversion resulted in the addition of two extra bedrooms and a bathroom, significantly increasing the property's functionality. The main bedroom, now located in the loft, features integrated window seat ideas clad in plywood. These window seats offer comfortable seating and garden views, eliminating the need for additional furniture that would otherwise consume valuable floor space. The interior design of the main bedroom is characterized by a muted color palette, fostering a calming atmosphere. Daniel Rees explained that the beams in the master and spare rooms were left exposed but painted the same color as the walls to enhance the sense of space and depth. Built-in wardrobes under the eaves maximize storage, with hidden compartments behind clothes rails. Angled brass skirting creates an optical illusion of greater height, contributing to the crisp aesthetic, while carefully positioned glazing ensures ample natural light. Innovative design solutions were also applied to the hallway doors, which were configured to maximize floor space. When open, these bespoke doors allow access to the master bedroom and ensuite. When closed, they effectively incorporate a section of the hallway into the master bedroom, while providing privacy for the bathroom. Magnets embedded in the door leaves ensure they remain fully open at a 90-degree angle, maintaining a flush finish. A large rooflight with an integrated blackout blind illuminates this flexible hallway area. The walls in certain sections feature a rubber and cork material, which not only provides a contrasting texture against the black design elements but also offers acoustic insulation properties to absorb sound. The new bathroom in the loft showcases modern design with clean, uncluttered fixtures. Wall-hung sanitaryware contributes to a sense of spaciousness. The walls are covered in Marmoleum, a natural and CO2-neutral material that provides a durable, low-maintenance, and seamless finish, avoiding the breaks typically seen with wall tiles. The windows are strategically placed to create an elongated appearance, further enhancing the perception of space. A compact walk-in shower is included, without a glass enclosure, simplifying maintenance, and the floor is also finished with Marmoleum in a pattern reflecting the nearby cork and rubber walls. Matte black shower fittings complete the contemporary look. The guest bedroom is designed as a multifunctional space with movable furniture, allowing for adaptability. Olive green walls and dark floors provide an effective contrast, with the window framing garden views. Despite the deep hues, light-colored furnishings and a bright ceiling maintain an airy feel. Before the renovation, the property had a standard, cramped Victorian layout with only two bedrooms, which was insufficient for the family's needs. The loft conversion transformed this into a more spacious and balanced family home, demonstrating how upward expansion can be a highly effective solution for creating additional living areas. #LoftConversion #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceMaximization #VictorianProperty #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BathroomDesign

The Residences at The Stoneleigh offers an exclusive high-rise luxury living experience in Dallas, distinguished by its service, amenities, privacy, security, and prime location. Originally planned for 175 units, the building's design was revised to 75, and through residents combining units, it now features only 64 residences, indicating a strong desire among occupants to expand their living spaces within the building. Unit 4A, a newly listed property, exemplifies this luxury. It is situated on the fourth floor, offering higher ceilings than other units, which enhances the spaciousness of the already expansive condo. Typically, each floor has four units, but Unit 4A is one of only three on its floor due to a combination of two units, providing a more private and residential feel akin to a single-family home. The Stoneleigh's location contributes significantly to its appeal, being in a less dense area and not directly on a major thoroughfare, which reduces traffic and provides a more tranquil, residential neighborhood ambiance. The building is described as a boutique property with a transitional aesthetic in its common areas and is managed with high efficiency. The array of luxury amenities available to residents includes a valet service for multiple vehicles, noting that Unit 4A comes with seven parking spots, a significant upgrade from the standard three. The concierge service is highlighted as one of the best in the city. A direct elevator entry system is also a key feature, offering enhanced privacy and security. Further amenities encompass stunning views, a private dining room equipped with a catering kitchen, a private media room, and an exclusive owner’s lounge. For pet owners, a pet-friendly terrace is available. The health and wellness facilities are comprehensive, featuring a gym, steam room, dry sauna, heated pool, and spa. An outdoor fireplace is provided for gatherings, and residents have the convenience of ordering room service from the adjacent Stoneleigh Hotel, embodying a hotel/spa living experience where daily chores like cooking can be easily outsourced. The interior design of Unit 4A is attributed to Barry Williams, who selected high-end finishes and materials. These include a Blue Quartzite fireplace mantle, custom oak herringbone flooring, Cowtan and Tout wallcoverings, and a Fusion Green Quartzite island countertop with a custom edge in the kitchen. TriArc Construction handled the general contracting, while George Bass Stage & Design contributed to staging the home for potential buyers. The condo spans 4,024 square feet, featuring three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The open floor plan is designed for extensive entertaining, and the enclosed kitchen provides discretion by keeping food preparation out of sight and hearing during social events. The principal bedroom opens onto a balcony and includes an Ecosmart ethanol fireplace with Artistic Kauri tile. The exclusivity and desirability of these units mean they are often quickly acquired, particularly by existing residents looking to expand, underscoring the high demand for this carefree, luxurious high-rise lifestyle. Unit 4A is listed by Sanders Avrea and Ani Nosnik of Allie Beth Allman for $3.65 million. #LuxuryRealEstate #HighRiseLiving #DallasRealEstate #StoneleighResidences #CondoDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryAmenities #HotelSpaLiving #BoutiqueBuilding

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

The Brush Factory Lofts project in South Philadelphia involved the conversion of a former Bestt Liebco paintbrush factory into a distinctive apartment complex. Sherwin-Williams acquired the factory in 2004, which had ceased operations in 2005. The Rufo Companies, led by Anthony Rufo Jr., purchased the abandoned complex from Sherwin-Williams in 2007, recognizing its structural integrity despite being heavily graffitied both inside and out. The conversion project, however, faced significant delays due to the Great Recession and a lengthy zoning variance process, finally commencing in 2015 after an eight-year hiatus. The development aimed to retain elements of the building's industrial past while creating modern living spaces. This includes a hanging sculpture made from old paintbrushes in the residents' lounge and the preservation of original fire doors. The industrial aesthetic extends to the individual units, with kitchens featuring metal shelves instead of traditional cabinets and distinctive LED lighting. The complex comprises five buildings, resulting in unique layouts and dimensions for the 150 units. For instance, some apartments in Building 1 have galley kitchens that project from the main structure, and some first-floor units in Building 2 feature basement bedrooms. The Brush Factory Lofts offer a variety of unit types, including studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, ranging from 625 to 1,500 square feet. Studios are priced between $1,475 and $1,700, one-bedrooms from $1,500 to $2,250, two-bedrooms from $1,750 to $2,400, and three-bedrooms from $2,750 to $2,850 per month. Amenities include a residents' lounge with a coffee bar, a fitness center, and a covered parking garage with 65 spaces available for $200 per month. A green roofdeck is also being added as part of the second phase. The project addressed local concerns, particularly regarding parking, a common issue in South Philadelphia. Although neighbors initially desired one parking space per unit, the city's revised zoning code made this unnecessary. The developer provides 65 spaces for the 150 units, a number deemed sufficient as approximately one-third of residents are observed to own cars. The first phase of 60 units began welcoming tenants in the fall, and the larger 90-unit second phase is nearing completion, with leasing underway and move-ins anticipated soon. The development has been met with positive community reception, with locals expressing enthusiasm for the revitalization of the building. One resident, Charlie Porco, a 75-year-old former neighbor, chose to sell his house and move into the lofts, highlighting the appeal of the renovated spaces and the convenience of single-floor living. #ApartmentConversion #IndustrialLofts #PhiladelphiaRealEstate #AdaptiveReuse #UrbanDevelopment #HistoricPreservation #ResidentialDesign #RentalProperty

The Halley/Carnahan family undertook a significant renovation of their 1920s Del Ray bungalow, driven by the need for more space and an additional bathroom. Originally featured on HGTV’s “My First Place” ten years ago, the couple purchased the 1,150-square-foot home, which became cramped after their daughter started kindergarten. Their primary motivation was to add a second bathroom, as the single existing one proved insufficient for their growing family. They sought to transform their starter home into a long-term residence. The couple collaborated with Four Brothers Design + Build, a Washington D.C.-based firm known for its integrated architecture, design, and construction services. Homeowners Devon Halley and Carolyn Carnahan were impressed by the firm’s portfolio and vision, which aligned with their desire for a bold and modern aesthetic. The project involved doubling the home’s size to 2,445 square feet by adding a usable second story and reconfiguring the downstairs layout. This comprehensive remodel addressed not only the need for more space but also updated the home's aging plumbing, electrical systems, weakened hardwood floors, and inefficient single-pane windows. Kristen Mendoza, a project designer for Four Brothers, and CJ LaMora of Circle Square Cross Architecture, who previously worked with Four Brothers, spearheaded the design. LaMora focused on the exterior and initial indoor layout, while Mendoza refined the interior plans. The homeowners commended the team's transparent planning and communication, ensuring a smooth transition from design to build. The renovation included a second-story addition with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, an office, and a laundry room. The downstairs was reconfigured to include a new foyer, a spacious galley kitchen, and an open-plan living and dining area with a new wood-burning fireplace. The exterior received a striking update with dark gray siding, an A-frame roof, new windows, and an updated front porch. A key element of the renovation was the kitchen, which was transformed from a tight, awkwardly laid-out space into a welcoming and functional hub. LaMora extended the kitchen into a previously unused bump-out area, creating a long galley kitchen. Mendoza incorporated ample counter space, numerous cabinets, and a hidden appliance garage. The kitchen's aesthetic features deep green cabinets, inspired by Carnahan's garden, contrasted with white marble countertops and hand-glazed tiles. A notable design feature separating the kitchen from the living/dining area is a custom glass half-partition wall with steel framing, proposed by Halley to achieve an “industrialized restaurant look.” This unique piece also enhances natural light distribution throughout the lower level. The newly opened lower level fosters family connection, allowing individuals to pursue different activities within the same shared space. Mendoza's design elements, such as wainscoting and built-in cabinetry flanking the new fireplace, subtly define the living and dining areas. The repositioning of the dining table and the addition of bench seating maximize space and delineate the dining zone. The new foyer, created by shifting the front door, improves organization and flow, particularly during busy mornings. The wood-burning fireplace, a desired feature for Halley, required extensive masonry work but significantly contributes to the living room's cozy ambiance. A large, art-like television above the fireplace and an integrated sound system with invisible speakers further enhance the living space. Upstairs, the renovation introduced an office space with a vaulted ceiling and triangular windows, a significant improvement from Halley's previous basement workspace. The three bedrooms now feature ample closet space, resolving a long-standing issue for the family. The primary bedroom includes a bonus balcony, providing a private outdoor retreat. The main bathroom continues the rich color palette with deep green-black soapstone, dark tiles, and light wood cabinets, complemented by mixed metal hardware. Skylights were strategically placed in bathrooms and at the top of the staircase to maximize natural light on the north side of the house, while ribbon-style windows characterize the southern-facing side of the second level. The home's exterior, with its iron gray siding and A-frame roof, reflects a modernized bungalow aesthetic that nonetheless fits within the diverse architectural styles of the Del Ray neighborhood. The homeowners expressed immense satisfaction with the renovation, highlighting how the transformed home better suits their family's contemporary lifestyle. #HomeRenovation #BungalowRemodel #DelRayHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenRenovation #ModernHome #FamilyLiving #FourBrothersDesignBuild

This article highlights a distinctive apartment located at 535 Dean Street in Prospect Heights, currently listed for just over $1 million. The residence, situated within the building known as Newswalk—a former Daily News printing plant converted into condominiums—offers a unique blend of historical context and contemporary design. It features a large, open living space characterized by impressive 12-foot-tall ceilings and expansive, wall-dominating windows, catering to those who appreciate a flexible loft-style layout. The current owners have invested significantly in customizing the apartment, collaborating with a local Brooklyn designer to introduce bespoke interior elements. These enhancements include a one-of-a-kind design that employs angles to create a dynamic and visually interesting space. Notable additions are custom built-ins and a dedicated desk area integrated along a living room wall, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality. Creative use of space is evident throughout the apartment. A walk-in coat closet is ingeniously tucked within the foyer, providing practical storage without encroaching on the main living areas. A striking floating loft mezzanine, crafted with custom-wrought ironwork sourced from Brooklyn, serves as an additional sleeping area. This innovative structure frees up the space below for a more intimate living room configuration. The apartment comprises two bedrooms. The master bedroom is strategically positioned near the entrance, ensuring privacy and featuring its own built-in closets for ample storage. The second bedroom offers exceptional flexibility through the use of moving walls, inspired by traditional Japanese screens. This design choice allows residents to reconfigure the space as needed, adapting the open loft layout to various functional requirements. Beyond the individual unit, the Newswalk building provides a comprehensive suite of amenities for its residents. These include a 24-hour doorman, a well-equipped fitness center, a communal laundry room, and a common roof deck, offering convenience and opportunities for leisure and socialization. The building's history as a printing plant contributes to its unique character, setting it apart within the Prospect Heights neighborhood. #ProspectHeights #BrooklynRealEstate #LoftApartment #NewswalkCondo #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FlexibleLiving #NYCRealEstate #CondoAmenities

Designer Laura Hodges transformed a 2,000-square-foot industrial loft in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood into a serene, light-filled home. The original space featured raw concrete floors and exposed HVAC piping under 18-foot ceilings, elements Hodges systematically replaced or reconfigured. Hodges, a New York School of Interior Design alumna who previously worked for Jamie Drake and Thomas Jayne, established her firm in Maryland in 2016 and later opened her home boutique, Domain by Laura Hodges Studio. The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the existing floor plan and infrastructure. The concrete floors were covered with wide-plank oak, and a clunky builder-grade stair was replaced with a minimalist white-painted metal version with oak treads and handrails. A glass-framed mezzanine was added above the stairwell, contributing to the refined aesthetic. Hodges emphasized the role of artwork in the design, with the walls serving as a neutral canvas. The open-plan living areas were painted in various finishes of Benjamin Moore’s Super White, and all custom design details were constructed on site. The living room, designed for media and entertaining, includes twin sofas, a Bernhardt armchair, and vintage chairs upholstered in chocolate brown Edelman Leather. A custom niche with grass cloth backing and integrated lighting houses a large bookcase, accessed by a custom white oak rolling ladder on a steel track. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation, replacing a turquoise-painted space. Hodges concealed an existing column within a paneled box and installed new floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, including specialized storage for a coffee bar and a movable spice rack. The kitchen now features Imperial Danby marble counters and backsplash, Fisher & Paykel appliances, and Visual Comfort pendants. BB LaMartina's artwork adorns the space. Hodges ingeniously created a secondary space by inserting a wall into the living room, forming a den that functions as a guest room for the homeowners' daughters. This space incorporates a sliding door and blackout curtains for privacy, alongside bronze transom windows that subtly reference the loft's industrial heritage. A wall-mounted desk, sleeper sofa, closet, and an additional bathroom were integrated into this versatile area. The dining area is distinguished by double-height windows equipped with motorized sheer curtains and blackout shades. Hodges custom-designed the dining table, featuring a starburst-patterned cerused white oak top and ebony legs, in collaboration with Goodwood Studios. Oly dining chairs complete the setting. Throughout the renovation, Hodges prioritized maximizing natural light and views of downtown Baltimore. The transformation successfully converted a formerly stark industrial environment into a peaceful and elegant residence, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics with functional design and a nod to the building's history. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the ample light and scenic views achieved through the design. This project exemplifies Hodges's ability to create sophisticated, livable spaces from challenging industrial settings. #InteriorDesign #LoftConversion #IndustrialToResidential #BaltimoreRealEstate #LauraHodgesStudio #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving

This blog post highlights a $5 million penthouse loft in Tribeca, located at 58 Walker Street, showcasing its unique blend of industrial charm and modern luxury. The 2,115-square-foot duplex spans two floors and includes a generous 1,318 square feet of private rooftop space, making it suitable for both winter and summer enjoyment. The apartment, situated in a building constructed in 1869, retains much of its original character, particularly through extensive exposed brickwork. Contemporary additions include an open staircase that connects the two levels, a striking massive copper kitchen vent, and distinctive lighting fixtures. The kitchen, positioned beneath the lofted second floor, features an externally-powered indoor grill, allowing for year-round culinary activities. The main floor of the penthouse accommodates two bedrooms and two bathrooms, both offering northern views. The master bedroom is further enhanced by a spacious dressing room. The second, lofted floor is an open-plan area currently configured as a “dining loggia.” This space is equipped with a custom 100-bottle wine bin, a wine bar, a wine refrigerator, and a half bathroom, designed for entertaining. Access to the private rooftop terrace is provided via another open staircase leading from the dining loggia. The terrace offers ample room for outdoor furniture and landscaping, with panoramic views that include iconic New York City landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Woolworth Building. Interior design details include a classic bathroom with a clawfoot tub and a second bathroom featuring patterned wallpaper, adding a contemporary touch to the rustic aesthetic. Overall, the penthouse presents a balanced living environment with a wood-burning fireplace for colder months and expansive outdoor space for warmer weather, combining historical elements with modern amenities in a highly desirable Tribeca location. The property is listed by Dina Lewis and Melanie Lazenby of Douglas Elliman. #PenthouseLoft #TribecaRealEstate #LuxuryApartment #ExposedBrick #RooftopTerrace #Duplex #IndustrialChic #NYCArchitecture #WalkerStreet

A couple residing in lower Manhattan acquired a circa 1892 Renaissance Revival brownstone and sandstone row house in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, measuring three stories high and just under 17 feet wide. While the house retained significant original details such as stained glass, wainscoting, an intact staircase, and carved Queen Anne style wood mantels, the new owners sought a brighter and more contemporary living space. They enlisted Gowanus-based architect Jeff Etelamaki to undertake a comprehensive renovation of the two upper floors, with a 'clean-up' of the garden level for an au pair or visiting family. The architect identified the primary challenges as the house's overall darkness and awkward proportions. The parlor level, for instance, suffered from a narrow entry hall, staircase, and galley kitchen that consumed a third of the house's width, leaving an exceptionally long and narrow living area (9 feet, 8 inches wide by 42 feet long). Etelamaki addressed this by opening up the hallway wall and dividing the lengthy space widthwise. An expanded kitchen was relocated to the rear of the parlor floor, and a dining area, featuring a round table to counteract the angularity of the space, was placed in the middle. This strategic repositioning was deemed the most practical solution for the layout. A significant stylistic decision involved replacing the existing ornate mantels and a large pier mirror. The homeowners opted for simpler white marble mantels, sourced from earlier-era Boston houses via New Hampshire, after the original pieces were sent to an architectural salvage warehouse in Harlem. This choice was partly facilitated by the necessity to replace the uneven and worn parquet flooring with new white oak planks from Madera Surfaces. Other improvements included removing a wall to open the stair hall and whitewashing existing dark brown woodwork to enhance brightness and modernize the interior. While much of the original detail, such as the front door, trim, wainscoting, and stair balusters, was preserved, the latter were highlighted with Farrow & Ball’s Manor House Grey. Additional design elements included abstract art by Brooklyn-based painter Alex Soffer positioned over the mantels in the parlor and kitchen areas. Two barrel-shaped chairs in the front parlor were chosen to complement the mantel's opening and prevent the narrow space from feeling overcrowded, while original stained glass panels above the parlor windows were retained. Custom kitchen cabinetry, along with a wall of glass-doored cabinets, was crafted by Tamas Matyek of Brooklyn-based Prowood. Lighting fixtures, including hanging lights over the black granite island, contemporary glass fixtures in the dining area and entry hall, and sconces throughout the house, were supplied by Allied Maker. A new powder room was integrated to the right of the kitchen, necessitating a slight bump-out into the kitchen space. Built-in white oak and mixed hardwood cabinets with integrated pulls were installed to optimize space in the kitchen, given its limited width for a dining table or banquette. On the upper floor, two smaller rooms were combined to create a single, full-width primary bedroom, with salvaged wainscoting used for repairs. The primary bedroom features furniture from Chicago’s Blu Dot. The central section of the top floor was reconfigured to include a walk-in closet and an entirely new skylit bathroom, which is partly clad in large-format porcelain tile. The existing door to a deck remained, with a potential future addition to that floor considered. #ProspectHeights #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSalvage #ModernUpdate #MarbleMantels #BrooklynRenovation #EtelamakiArchitecture #HomeRedesign