David Netto Brings Big Design to a Sleepy Colonial for a Young Family

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

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

The article delves into the unconventional design philosophy of Los Angeles–based and Manhattan-bred designer David Netto, highlighting his ability to persuade clients to embrace audacious design choices. Netto's career trajectory, marked by dropping out of Harvard's graduate architecture program, launching a midcentury children's furniture line, and establishing a cross-country residential design studio, showcases his adventurous spirit and a willingness to challenge norms. This ethos is exemplified in his work on a weekend house in Millbrook, New York, for a couple who had previously collaborated with him on their Manhattan apartment. The couple, consisting of a health-care CEO and a policy analyst, acquired their upstate house, a 1980s Colonial-era estate on over 200 acres, in 2016. Initially, the house served as a casual retreat, retaining many of its previous owner's furnishings, including chintz and period-appropriate accoutrements. However, the pandemic necessitated a reevaluation, prompting the couple to seek Netto's expertise to transform the property into a more refined yet still casual "real home." Their primary objectives included introducing more sunlight and a sense of expansiveness into the existing structure. Netto's proposed solution was far from conventional. Instead of a typical Colonial-style wing or a rectangular "great room," he envisioned a vast octagonal room linked to the main house by a hallway-like orangerie. This idea, initially a hard sell, ultimately captivated the CEO, who was drawn to Netto's inspiration: the octagonal library of Edgewater, a neo-Palladian estate in upstate New York built in 1824. The Edgewater octagon, an 1854 addition by architect Alexander Jackson Davis, stands in stark contrast to the original classical proportions, a daring juxtaposition that Netto aimed to replicate. The newly added octagon, measuring 28 feet across with a 13-foot-high ceiling, significantly alters the house's dimension. Designed with horizontal pine paneling to evoke a "rec-room feeling" rather than a grand, Jeffersonian aesthetic, this space serves as the family's primary entertaining area, particularly during holidays. The orangerie surrounding it integrates the outdoors, bringing natural elements inside through zinc-planted trees. Netto's design approach throughout the house involves a thoughtful blend of classical furnishings, such as 1790s Queen Anne–style chairs and a chintz-filled guest room, with contemporary elements that inject whimsy. Examples include powder-coated French hanging lanterns, a natural rattan amphora on a pedestal, a mirror framed with porcupine quills, and a spherical stoneware lamp by Jennifer Nocon. Netto describes his method as interpreting traditional pieces like a sketch, preserving their essence while loosening their form to create a style that is both unfinished and forward-looking, aiming for a youthful and contemporary feel. #DavidNetto #ArchitecturalDesign #CountryHouse #HomeRenovation #OctagonalRoom #InteriorDecor #TraditionalModernBlend #MillbrookNY #ElleDecor

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century Newton home, transforming it into a luxurious yet family-friendly space for a family of six. The homeowners, moving from a condo, were drawn to the original charm of the 1848 abode, including its authentic millwork, curved staircase, and glass-etched double front doors. Their vision was to infuse the historic property with a fresh, modern energy while preserving its inherent character. Interior designer Cara Fineman spearheaded the "glow up" primarily focusing on the first floor. This involved minor modifications to improve livability in the kitchen, pantry, and three bathrooms. Key updates included new countertops, tile backsplashes, brass hardware, and modern fixtures. Notably, the existing custom Kochman Reidt + Haigh kitchen cabinetry was in excellent condition, necessitating only a fresh coat of wispy white paint. The adjacent pantry and wet bar received a more dramatic makeover with bold new color schemes on existing cabinets, complemented by Aux Abris grasscloth and Ferrick Mason wallcoverings, along with linen window treatments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fineman's design strategy for the study, family, and living rooms centered on integrating soft furnishings crafted from family-friendly textiles and contemporary lighting. In the family room, a spacious and plush sectional, ottoman, and lounge chairs were installed to create a comfortable gathering space. The living room now features a sleek game table made of lacquered swirl resin, designed to encourage board games and social activities. A significant design element across the communal spaces was the strategic incorporation of color and pattern, particularly through wallpaper, fulfilling the clients' desire for a vibrant and dynamic interior. The home boasts a sophisticated yet serene atmosphere, achieved through a diverse material palette including silk, grasscloth, antique brass, velvet, and rattan. A personalized sanctuary was created for the mother of the house in the first-floor study. This feminine space, designed for quiet reading, features an opal wall color, warm artwork, and bookshelves filled with books, accompanied by an overstuffed sofa for relaxation. Despite having four young children under the age of six, the first floor was intentionally designed to feel luxurious and mature without being overly precious or inaccessible to the kids. The design philosophy emphasized materials that were not easily damaged and the rehabilitation of existing elements rather than complete replacement, such as using natural fibers and updating existing cabinetry. This approach allowed for the preservation of the home's originality while adapting it to the contemporary needs of a young family. The playroom, adjacent to the boys' bedroom, features a lively Serengeti wallpaper, beanbags, storage baskets, and wall shelves, designed to be age-appropriate yet durable for a growing family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NewtonHome #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #ModernDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

Child Studio, a London-based firm, drew inspiration from modernist European villas to redesign a three-storey townhouse in Belgravia, London. The project, undertaken for an art collector, focused on creating a sophisticated yet understated living space tailored to the homeowners' specific needs and preferences, eschewing transient design trends. The renovation primarily involved the top two floors of the 280-square-metre Georgian building, where a light-filled double-height space was created and clad in a plaster finish. A key architectural intervention was the addition of a mezzanine floor, which seamlessly connects the living room to an outdoor roof terrace via a cast-iron spiral staircase. In the living area, five-meter-tall mahogany wooden shelves were installed, covering an entire wall. These shelves, designed to house the owner's extensive book collection, were inspired by the library in the Paris studio of the late fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld. The dark wood of the shelves provides an elegant contrast to the pale plaster walls, contributing to the home's refined aesthetic. Wood is a dominant material throughout the interior, emphasizing a natural and tactile feel. The bedroom features an undulating wooden headboard, creating a sculptural focal point. According to Child Studio founders Che Huang and Alexy Kos, the design revolved around a carefully selected palette of natural materials including hand-crafted wood, solid stone, and tactile fabrics, reflecting a pared-back approach intended to highlight the owners' lives rather than overpowering them with design elements. The studio incorporated both classic and custom-designed furniture pieces. The dining room is furnished with Chandigarh chairs, a mid-century classic. The guest bedroom also features a Chandigarh chair, paired with a desk and chair by architect Pierre Jeanneret and a desk lamp by modernist architect Marcel Breuer. Child Studio also designed several bespoke furniture pieces for the project, including a custom daybed and mahogany stool in the main bedroom, influenced by Art Deco designer Jules Leleu, and a low teak table in the living room, inspired by 20th-century Swedish designer Axel Einar Hjort. This collaborative process involved artisans with whom the studio had established long-standing relationships. Beyond wood, stone plays a significant role, particularly in the bathroom. Drawing inspiration from Porto's Villa Serralves, the bathroom features an interior almost entirely sculpted from green Verde Guatemala marble. The built-in elements, including a marble sink and bathtub, were carved from solid stone blocks by a specialized marble workshop in northern Italy. The soft curves of these fixtures blend seamlessly into the walls and floor, creating a luxurious and cohesive space. The townhouse's lounge also references modernist villas, specifically Villa Necchi in Milan, with its mahogany-panelled walls and an antique Iroko-wood coffee table. The designers expressed their admiration for the craftsmanship and attention to detail found in early modernist European villas, applying this ethos to the Belgravia project by working closely with artisans in England and Italy. To ensure a coherent aesthetic, Child Studio also reinstated original Georgian architectural features, such as panelled wooden shutters, herringbone parquet flooring, and semicircular plaster ceiling cornices. The ultimate goal was to create a comfortable, effortless, and evolving home that serves as a subtle yet elegant backdrop for its occupants' lives. #BelgraviaTownhouse #ChildStudio #ModernistVillas #InteriorDesign #LondonArchitecture #ResidentialRenovation #CustomFurniture #NaturalMaterials #ArtCollectorHome

Capri Architecture designed a coastal house and its interiors in Neskowin. The design incorporates natural elements like wood and stone, which were initially abstract concepts for the owner but became appreciated in their tangible form. The great room features an 18-foot-wide sliding door and large Innotech double-pane windows, requiring a significant crew for installation, and it houses a fireplace wall illuminated by three skylights and integrated LED lights. The fireplace wall extends to a vaulted ceiling. The slatted walnut staircase railing is designed to mimic the appearance of a wave, adding a distinctive architectural detail. A porte-cochère shields the front door. Wooden cabinets and accent walls are strategically placed throughout the glass-laden beach house to introduce warmth. Projecting wooden slats are installed on the ceiling to support island pendants. The main level includes a primary suite that offers ocean views and a fireplace. Within the primary suite, a headboard alcove is clad in wood, enhancing the room's aesthetic. The primary suite's bathroom features a double-height ceiling, concrete counters on floating cabinets, and a glass-enclosed shower area. All furniture in the house was sourced from Breit+Hill Home, a retail boutique in Salem founded by interior designer Jamie Hildebrand. The house's exterior features an overhang extending 14 feet, providing shelter for the deck, making it usable in various weather conditions. Structural reinforcements are discretely integrated into the foundations and framing. The construction prioritizes durability and climate control with special insulation, a double-layer house wrap, and triple-flashed windows. These measures are designed to prevent moisture-related issues such as condensation, mold, and rot, ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of the coastal property. #CoastalArchitecture #NeskowinBeachHouse #CapriArchitecture #InteriorDesign #SustainableBuilding #ModernHomeDesign #LuxuryLiving #DavidPapazianPhotography

Katie and Jesse Kath, known for their design-build firm Jkath Design Build + Reinvent, embarked on an unexpected journey to construct their "forever home" in Minneapolis. Initially aiming for a renovation, their three-year search for the perfect property led them to pivot when Jesse discovered a wide lot with a small, old house for sale. Despite being unprepared, their offer was accepted, pushing them into the realm of new construction. The couple envisioned a modern Tudor that would accommodate their family of five in its current stage and seamlessly transition to a comfortable space for just the two of them in the future. Katie, who leads the company's interior design, emphasized thoughtful space utilization and an aesthetic that would endure. The resulting 4,000-square-foot home blends traditional and open-concept areas, featuring a formal dining room alongside a casual kitchen and living room. The living room is intentionally modest in size, designed for conversation rather than large-scale entertainment, allowing the saved square footage to be allocated to a highly desired sunroom. This sunroom, a favorite feature for the couple, boasts stackable vinyl windows that transform it into a screened porch, creating a versatile indoor-outdoor experience. Upstairs, an office provides future work-from-home flexibility, and most of the children's bedrooms include private bathrooms, a long-term luxury for when the children visit as adults. Katie's design approach leans towards sophistication, with a notable use of dark-stained, furniture-like built-ins crafted by Jesse or his cabinet shop team. These bespoke elements contribute to the home's unique character. Practicality is also a key aspect of the design; for instance, the pantry, equipped with a grab-and-go beverage fridge, a water bottle-filling faucet, and a built-in wall oven, has become a family favorite. The 10-foot-long quartz island in the kitchen provides ample seating and display space, while the living room features a cast-stone fireplace and a picture window designed to maximize future landscape views. The home incorporates several custom and functional details. The banquette area includes an alder wood bench built by Jesse, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Oversized mercury glass pendants in the kitchen serve as a focal point. The pass-through pantry's storage cabinet is designed to resemble an antique heirloom, with reeded glass sliding doors for both aesthetics and functionality. The mudroom, a top request from their clients, features five integrated lockers behind massive built-in cabinet doors, along with a dedicated pet storage area for their dog, Otis. The powder room, designed around a classic floral trellis wallpaper, showcases details like crown molding and baseboards painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx and polished nickel finishes. Further design highlights include the primary bath with natural stone tiles, a marble floor, and a custom alder vanity built by Jesse. The primary bedroom features a built-in display and storage unit in a previously dead corner, and the room is strategically placed for privacy. The upstairs laundry room, a welcome change for Katie, boasts hexagonal marble tile flooring and blue-gray cabinetry, creating a bright and functional space. A hall bath combines vintage charm with modern elements through unique tile flooring, a V-groove panel vanity, playful wallpaper, and sleek black accents. Charlie's bedroom incorporates antique elm as a feature wall, demonstrating a blend of character and practical application for client showcases. The exterior, a modern Tudor style, harmonizes with the established neighborhood, featuring oversize James Hardie panel siding, a metal and shingled roof, and black windows, with landscaping by Exterior Design Studio. The floor plan, initially sketched by Katie and Jesse, thoughtfully positions traditional spaces at the front and casual areas at the back, with a finished basement adding significant living space. This home epitomizes Jkath Design Build + Reinvent's philosophy of smart space utilization and timeless design. #HomeDesign #NewConstruction #ModernTudor #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FamilyHome #MinneapolisRealEstate #JkathDesignBuild #SustainableDesign

Thais and Roberto Alcalay, a couple with a keen eye for modern design, embarked on a journey to build their dream home in Naples' Pine Ridge Estates. Having relocated from Brazil to the United States in 2004 and subsequently to Fort Myers in 2007, they found themselves desiring a modern aesthetic, which proved challenging to find in the existing Naples market. This led them to collaborate with architect John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects and Scott McConnelee of BUILD, a construction company renowned for luxury modern homes. Thais Alcalay, an interior designer by profession, played a pivotal role in the project. She arrived at initial consultations with extensive documentation, including detailed descriptions of each room, desired materials, and even plumbing specifications, surprising both the architect and the builder with her meticulous planning. This thorough preparation was the result of years of research and a clear vision for their new home, which they felt should reflect their current lifestyle, contrasting with the French-style home they once owned in Brazil. The resulting 5,500-square-foot, four-bedroom (plus office), five-and-a-half-bathroom residence embodies a modern aesthetic without being stark or cold. The exterior is characterized by a series of layered cubes, cantilevers, voids, windows, and solid walls, showcasing movement and varied textures. Cooney skillfully incorporated different materials such as stucco and wood to create visual interest and juxtaposition. The Alcalays' preference for movement over simple squares and angles was a driving force behind the architectural design. Inside, the home maintains an open and free-flowing atmosphere. Common areas are subtly defined by ceiling details, lighting, and box beams. A consistent neutral palette is established throughout most of the home with grayish METAL.IT tile by Emil Group, which is inspired by brushed steel and extends to the baseboards, providing a cohesive backdrop for other design elements. This flooring choice allows the predominantly Italian and Brazilian furniture, along with other thoughtful details, to stand out. A significant feature in the great room is a 14-foot-high feature wall made of six Italian tile slabs that mimic marble, designed by Thais, with an LED shaft running along its perimeter. In the kitchen, a mix of cabinet heights, surfaces, and tones is present, with painted wood cabinets wrapping around high-end appliances and glass sections offering views of the pool. A main island is practical with two sinks, while a second island serves as a showpiece with Pompeii quartz extending to the floor. The design also emphasizes a connection to the outdoors, with large sliders offering views of the pool and outdoor kitchen from the great room, and three of the four bedrooms enjoying pool views. An intimate conversation area near the great room features Désirée Ego swivel chairs and copper Tom Dixon pendants, all positioned to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The primary suite continues the clean lines, featuring a padded gray headboard and a spa-like bathroom with a floating vanity over illuminated river stones and a generously sized shower. Even Roberto's specific request for a workspace above the garage was integrated, ingeniously cantilevered to enhance the home's unique design. The detailed initial planning by the Alcalays, particularly Thais, proved to be both the greatest challenge and a significant factor in the project's success. All illustrations are courtesy of Robin Hill Photography. #HomeDesign #ModernArchitecture #NaplesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #PineRidgeEstates #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialConstruction

The article focuses on the work of Singaporean architect Edmund Ng, particularly his modernist approach to design and a recent project in the Sunset Way neighborhood. Ng views architecture as an art form that transforms client needs into artistic expressions, aiming to improve wellness through environmental design. His style is characterized by modernism, respect for material purity, and tropical adaptation, often utilizing off-form concrete and natural light to suit the local climate. Ng's clientele often return to him for subsequent projects, including their children, highlighting a strong client relationship and trust in his design philosophy. The article details a specific project: a new home for a retired couple on a 6,900-square-foot plot in Sunset Way, adjacent to the Ki Residences condominium. This location holds significant sentimental value for the couple, who previously resided in the now-redeveloped Brookvale Park within the same neighborhood. Ng’s design responded to the land's topography, which slopes towards the back, leading him to create a three-storey residence with a basement and swimming pool at the rear. From the street, the house maintains an unassuming facade of off-form concrete and black walls, but transforms upon entry. Upon entering, the house, named "The Green Sanctuary," reveals its porous design through full-height windows that frame views of lush greenery. Despite the unconventional placement of the living room and pool at the back, facing the condominium, mature and newly planted trees along the perimeter ensure privacy. The design prioritizes connecting residents with nature, offering vantage points for vegetation from various areas, including the dining room on the first floor and the master bedroom on the second. The master bathroom is uniquely cantilevered directly above the pool, enhancing the connection to the outdoor elements. The attic level provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including trees, landed homes, and distant buildings. Ng incorporated tree patterns into specially commissioned metal screens on the second floor, shielding the guest bedroom while creating a visual effect of a forest silhouette when illuminated at night. This attention to detail reflects the architect's commitment to integrating natural elements and artistic expression into the home's fabric. The residence was specifically designed to accommodate the couple's extensive collections of art and classic cars, accumulated over three decades. Ng recognized these collections as integral to the couple's life journey and memories, shaping the home to serve as a personal art museum. The interior features simple materials and a black-and-white palette, allowing the diverse art pieces, ranging from sculptures by Daisy Boman and Li Chen to paintings by Lee Jung Woong, to become focal points. The husband's collection of car memorabilia and seven classic cars is housed in a dedicated double-volume den. The home is also designed for future adaptability, with an open-layout attic that can be converted into an apartment. This attic includes wall panels that slide to reveal a large mirror for the wife’s dancing, and opens to a terrace and a “secret garden in the sky.” Ng emphasizes that architecture should be soulful and responsive to client needs, asserting that a home is more than just a shelter but a reflection of the occupants’ lives and aspirations. He credits his wife for enabling his creative freedom, allowing him to "dream" in his architectural pursuits. #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernistArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArtCollection #ClassicCars #SingaporeRealEstate #SustainableDesign

This article details a sophisticated Art Deco-style home in Sydney, designed by Greg Natale, which departs from his signature black-and-white interiors to embrace a softer palette of pink and grey. The design was heavily influenced by the owners' European travels and their desire for a classic yet modern and streamlined home, leading to a strong French Art Deco theme. The primary design cue came from the bleached-oak parquet flooring chosen by the owners, Vince and Melissa Ciolino, setting the tone for the entire house. The palette is described as a 'youthful romance' between pink and grey, a combination that resonated with Natale from his teenage years in the 1980s and inspired his career in interior design. The home's exterior features a curved facade with Juliet balconies and ornate ironwork against a stucco finish, while the interior minimizes right angles, emphasizing curves throughout. The renovation transformed a humble stucco bungalow, retaining only the original front two rooms behind the new curved facade. The expanded home now includes two lounge rooms, four bedrooms, a study, a grand dining room, and a well-appointed kitchen with a butler’s pantry, catering to the owners' love for entertaining. The ground floor layout features an entry that leads past a media room, study, and laundry, opening into an expansive L-shaped formal living, dining, and kitchen area. An informal living addition at the rear of the house encloses the pool. Melissa's request for a light and airy feel, combined with the pale herringbone parquet, led Greg to propose pink walls with white joinery, further solidified by an artwork with blush hues intended for the dining area. This choice created a fresh and uplifting atmosphere. Brass accents are strategically used throughout the kitchen and living room shelving, adding a vibrant 'pop' against the softer tones. The design incorporates luxurious materials such as Carrara marble for the doorstep, fireplace, bathrooms, and benchtops. Terrazzo floors and charcoal furnishings introduce the grey elements that complement the pink, forming the glamorous combination Natale envisioned. The Art Deco influence is evident in every detail, from the sensuously rounded facade to the curved fireplace, the seamless wall-to-ceiling transitions without cornicing, oval bookcases with elongated arches, and a spectacular spiral staircase. Natale further innovated with ceilings, incorporating raked designs and coffered inserts with rounded edges to break up white expanses and enhance the curved motif. The furniture selection deviates from traditional heavy Art Deco pieces, opting instead for modernist furniture, particularly 1950s Italian designs. This choice aims to provide cleaner profiles that beautifully offset the architectural detailing, creating an eclectic and unexpected scheme. Natale notes a growing trend among clients for softer palettes, moving away from monochrome, and expresses his enthusiasm for incorporating more pink into his designs. The project showcases Natale's ability to evolve his aesthetic while delivering a sophisticated and welcoming home that celebrates both classic Art Deco elements and modern, youthful romance. #ArtDecoHome #GregNatale #InteriorDesign #PinkAndGreyPalette #CurvedArchitecture #LuxuryInteriors #SydneyHome #HomeRenovation #ModernistFurniture

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

Naomi Coe, founder of California-based design studio Little Crown Interiors, led the creation of a luxurious and functional nursery for real estate moguls in Beverly Hills. The 275-square-foot space was transformed into a "cozy, luxurious, and girly" environment for their new daughter, blending existing pieces with modern and traditional elements. The design process began with the client's request to incorporate a cherished Edra sofa, which served as a focal point around which the color palette of whites, pinks, and bronze accents was built. A key aspect of Coe's design philosophy for nurseries is ensuring the baby's crib is placed in a safe and central location. For this project, a Nursery Works crib, chosen for its all-acrylic construction, was positioned on the back wall opposite the sofa. This selection introduced a modern touch that harmonized with the home's traditional architectural features, while also contributing to an open and airy feel within the room. Blush hues and diverse textural elements were integral to achieving the desired aesthetic. Notable additions included a custom Kifu Paris changing table and a striking Alexander McQueen-designed rug. The rug, described by Coe as the centerpiece, introduced a whimsical element characteristic of a nursery while maintaining sophistication through subtle black accents, fulfilling the client's desire for an elegant yet playful space. To further enhance the room's traditional aspects and leverage its architectural features, Coe and her team looked to the ceiling. They collaborated with Rebel Walls to customize a wallpaper design that would fit the high, inset ceiling, creating a distinctive statement piece. The chosen color and pattern added a new dimension to the room, drawing the eye upward and contributing to the overall dreamy and curated atmosphere of the nursery. The project successfully combined practicality with high-end design, delivering a personalized and elegant space for the new family. #NurseryDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #BeverlyHills #LittleCrownInteriors #HomeDecor #FeminineDesign #ModernLuxury #ResidentialDesign

Jodie Snyder Morel, co-creator of the jewelry line DANNIJO, and her husband Greg Morel collaborated with Noa Santos, co-founder of the interior design firm Homepolish, to design a nursery for their daughter, Margaux. The objective was to transform a guest room/office into a space that was both stylish and functional, allowing their daughter to grow into it rather than being a typical baby's room. The design process began with Snyder Morel's clear understanding of her personal aesthetic, which facilitated a smooth collaboration with Santos. They prioritized selecting key furniture pieces first, and subsequently accessorized the space, embracing a step-by-step approach to allow the room's vibe to evolve naturally. Snyder Morel expressed immense satisfaction with the finished nursery, noting her desire to move in herself, and highlighted their excitement to bring Margaux home to a specially designed, peaceful, and airy environment. Noa Santos emphasized the importance of the client-designer relationship in the success of the project, stating that a strong bond leads to a better outcome. The nursery's color palette primarily features soft whites, creams, and greys, contributing to a calm and serene atmosphere. This choice aimed to create a chic and soothing environment suitable for a baby in a Tribeca apartment. In terms of decor, the room incorporates various textures, playful elements, and distinctive art pieces. Notable inclusions are a large giraffe painting by Jenna Snyder Phillips and a piece by Lyle Owerko. The furniture selections include items from ducduc and a raw crib from Kalon studios. Soft textures were integrated through sheepskin rugs and pillows, enhancing the room's comfort and aesthetic. Snyder Morel described the room's overall feel as "girly in a bohemian gypset way," indicating a blend of feminine charm with a free-spirited, unconventional style. The design successfully maximized the use of space, with Snyder Morel commending Santos for fitting all necessary items without clutter, contributing to the room's peaceful and calm ambiance. The designer's approach avoided a traditional nursery aesthetic, focusing instead on creating a versatile space that Margaux could comfortably inhabit and grow with over time. This collaborative effort resulted in a highly personalized and aesthetically cohesive nursery that met the family's specific vision. #NurseryDesign #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #Homepolish #JodieSnyderMorel #BabyRoom #HomeDecor #BohemianStyle #FunctionalDesign

The article discusses the advantages of open-concept floor plans, particularly for families with young children. Designers suggest that open layouts are ideal because they offer better supervision, more freedom to wander, unified decorating opportunities, better family interaction, cohesive color palettes, and help avoid bottlenecks in the kitchen, while also improving entertaining experiences. One significant benefit is enhanced supervision. With an open floor plan, parents can easily monitor their children from different areas, such as while preparing dinner or taking a work call. This visibility provides a sense of calm for parents and allows children more freedom to play within a shared environment, eliminating the confinement of separate rooms and closed doors. Nate van der Ende, principal of &Ende, emphasizes this point, noting that open layouts transform the main floor into a unified space where everyone can feel connected. Open-concept layouts also provide more freedom for children to roam safely. Designer Samantha Heyl agrees that these plans foster a communal and interactive atmosphere, not just for children but also for pets and partners, offering a larger, less restrictive space for exploration. From a decorating perspective, open layouts simplify the process. Instead of designing numerous distinct rooms, homeowners can focus on creating a cohesive aesthetic across a single, large space. Valeria Fervorari, co-founder of Studio Ocra, recommends using coordinated colors, textures, and materials to seamlessly link the kitchen, dining, and living areas. This openness also allows for flexible furniture arrangements and multifunctional zones, adapting easily for entertaining, family activities, or quiet moments. Furthermore, open floor plans naturally encourage better family interaction. Without walls to hinder conversation, communication among family members and guests becomes easier. Interior designer and mother Tamara Feldman highlights that a home's layout influences a family's sense of togetherness, with open plans fostering visual and physical connection, allowing children to wander safely while maintaining a sense of unity. For decorating, open-floor plans offer simplicity by allowing parents to select a single, cohesive color palette for the entire main space, reducing the number of design decisions. Darla Bankston May suggests using area rugs to define zones and statement light fixtures to differentiate areas, while maintaining overall color coordination. Finally, open layouts address the common issue of kitchen bottlenecks. Interior designer John Bambick notes that open-concept living enables guests and family members to mingle freely between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. This prevents the kitchen from becoming a crowded, chaotic space and allows for a more serene and relaxed atmosphere where people can spread out without missing out on ongoing conversations or activities. #OpenConceptFloorPlan #FamilyFriendlyDesign #HomeInterior #DesignInspiration #ParentingTips #HomeRenovation #InteriorDecorating #KitchenDesign #FamilyLiving

The Wallis family, consisting of Jenna, an internationally acclaimed interior designer and owner of Jenna Wallis Interior Design, and her husband Ed, purchased a 1940s English cottage in the Hedgemoor neighborhood of Memphis with a vision to transform it into a serene and classic retreat for their family, including their two boys. Despite its charming exterior, the cottage required extensive renovation to accommodate a modern family while preserving its original character. After living in the house for about four years, the Wallises engaged Ryan Anderson of RKA Investments, a Memphis builder known for restoring older homes, and architect Charles Shipp to lead the renovation. Jenna's design philosophy centered on blending the old with the new, maintaining the home's classic charm while introducing contemporary elements. A significant challenge involved literally lifting the existing structure to create an open, airy space. The renovation team, including Ryan Anderson's business partner Chris Clark, worked collaboratively to achieve Jenna's vision, which included raising the living area's 9-foot ceilings to 11 feet to enhance natural light and spaciousness. Eight-foot windows were installed, flanking a custom fireplace, above which a vibrant painting by Atlanta artist Sally King Benedict became a focal point. Key areas of the home were meticulously redesigned. The kitchen was transformed with custom cabinetry extending to the ceiling for maximum storage, a beveled subway tile backsplash, and honed Carrara marble countertops. Jenna opted for unlacquered brass hardware, which develops a natural patina over time, to align with the home's original aesthetic. A breakfast nook, connecting the living area and kitchen, features sleek white walls, a streamlined banquette, and a rustic farmhouse table complemented by a brass globe chandelier. A framed 1966 Andy Warhol-designed Campbell's Soup dress, inherited from Ed's grandmother, adds a whimsical touch to this space. Throughout the living areas, white walls serve as a gallery for the Wallises' extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Memphis artist Megan Hurdle. In the parlor, a soft mint green ceiling, inspired by one of Hurdle's mixed-media works, adds a subtle color accent. Jenna's favorite space, her downstairs study, is distinguished by pale, high-gloss blue lacquered walls, a French pedestal desk, whimsical peacock figurines, and a modern brass starburst chandelier. Custom-built bookshelves by RKA Investments house the family's book collection, while art consultant Anna Wunderlich assisted in curating and displaying the family's diverse artwork, including a collection of oils and watercolors from Paris. The guest bedroom features a bold coral lattice wallpaper on an accent wall, framing an upholstered headboard, alongside French dressers and draperies made from Jim Thompson silk. The master bath was conceived as a spa-like retreat, with gray and white marble, built-in mirrors, millwork surrounding a white vanity, and elegant brass hardware. Antique light fixtures were incorporated to maintain the home's period charm. The renovation extended to the exterior, with Ryan Anderson and his team salvaging stone to create a cozy fireplace on a spacious, screened-in porch, which has become an ideal gathering spot for the Wallis family and friends. The project culminated in a home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern functionality, fulfilling Jenna's five-year vision. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #MemphisHomes #CottageRenovation #JennaWallisDesign #RKAInvestments #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection