The Bellevue Hill home of model Georgia Fowler and her Fishbowl founder husband is for sale

The Hancock Park residence of Dean Tavoularis, an Academy Award-winning production designer known for his work on films such as the 'Godfather' trilogy, 'Bonnie and Clyde,' 'Zabriskie Point,' and 'Apocalypse Now,' is now available for purchase. This 1933 Spanish Colonial Revival home, listed at $2.199 million, is being offered for the first time in five decades. The property showcases an abundance of visually striking details, reflecting Tavoularis's professional background. Upon entering the property through its gate, visitors encounter a courtyard featuring a sumptuously tiled fountain and an arched arcade, leading to a porte-cochere. A coffered wood door opens into a formal entry area distinguished by painted tile and wrought-iron grilles. The formal dining room, situated to the right of the entry, boasts intricately detailed moldings and a stained glass picture window. To the left, the living room is adorned with carved plaster beams and a tiled fireplace, complete with a carved wood mantelpiece. The kitchen seamlessly blends period tile and cabinetry with modern appliances and includes a breakfast nook featuring a semi-circular built-in banquette. The 3,500-square-foot residence comprises five bedrooms and five bathrooms. A notable bathroom is rendered in a seafoam green hue, equipped with matching built-in dressers, a tiled pedestal sink, and a wall phone, which appears to be an addition from the 1980s. The master suite features coved ceilings, curved built-in shelving, and an adjoining sitting room with a marble fireplace. These design elements collectively contribute to the home's distinctive aesthetic, which aligns with Tavoularis's expertise in creating compelling visual environments. The property is listed by Scott Lander and Matt Berkley of Deasy Penner Podley. #HancockPark #LosAngelesRealEstate #SpanishColonialRevival #LuxuryHomes #DeanTavoularis #ProductionDesignerHome #HistoricHomes #ArchitecturalDetails

This article highlights the latest real estate endeavor of Jeff Lewis, the interior designer from Bravo's "Flipping Out." Lewis has listed a renovated Beverly Hills Post Office home for sale at $3.495 million. The property, initially a three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence spanning 2,000 square feet, has undergone significant transformation under Lewis's guidance. It now features four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, and an additional 870 square feet, all designed in his signature style. The renovation process for this home was featured in the final season of "Flipping Out," where Lewis undertook a comprehensive gut renovation. The house is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac and showcases an ultra-modern farmhouse aesthetic. The downstairs area features an open-concept layout, seamlessly integrating the living room, kitchen, and dining room. This design is enhanced by sliding pocket doors that facilitate indoor-outdoor living, leading to an outdoor pool area. Key design elements synonymous with Jeff Lewis's style are evident throughout the property. These include distressed wide plank floors, two-story beamed ceilings, and a meticulously designed kitchen. The kitchen is a focal point, featuring a bold herringbone backsplash complemented by light wood cabinets, marble countertops, and high-end appliances. The article provides a glimpse into various parts of the home through several illustrations. One image displays the main floor, highlighting its open and airy ambiance, with sliding doors opening to the patio and pool. Another illustration focuses on the kitchen, showcasing its blend of patterns, materials, and textures. Further images present the master bedroom, located on the main floor and characterized by an open-air feel, and a guest room that includes a private terrace overlooking the backyard. The listing for this property is handled by Lewis's sister-in-law, Carrie Berkman Lewis, a broker with Douglas Elliman. This project is consistent with Lewis's established business model of acquiring, renovating, and subsequently selling properties. The article emphasizes the luxurious and contemporary upgrades implemented throughout the home, reflecting current high-end real estate trends in the Beverly Hills area. The home’s design combines functionality with sophisticated aesthetics, typical of Lewis's projects, aiming to attract a discerning buyer in the competitive luxury market. #JeffLewis #FlippingOut #BeverlyHillsRealEstate #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #RealEstateListing #ModernFarmhouse #OpenConceptLiving

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a nearly 200-year-old Federal-style farmhouse located in Sharon, Connecticut. The property, which had remained unsold for years due to its dilapidated condition, eventually found new owners who recognized its inherent potential. Architect Rafe Churchill was enlisted to undertake a historically sensitive renovation, prioritizing the preservation of the home's original architectural integrity. Initially, discussions included adding a significant extension, but this idea was ultimately abandoned in favor of maintaining the existing footprint. Approximately half of the structure required gutting, and Churchill’s approach focused on repairs using traditional materials whenever feasible. Key structural and exterior envelope improvements included a new roof, a partial chimney, reinforced floor joists, and repairs to the wood clapboard siding and many original windows. Windows beyond repair were replaced with new Marvin windows, all equipped with triple-track storm windows. The interior spaces were reconfigured and updated while honoring the home’s historical context. The dining room was transformed into a rich blue library, featuring new pocket doors designed to appear original and custom-milled molding that matches existing trim throughout the house. Original wood floors in the library, dining room, front hall, and some bedrooms were meticulously saved and refurbished. Interior designer Heide Hendricks contributed a vintage orange sofa and designed the steel-frame ottoman and drapery, adding modern touches. The dining room, formerly a parlor, now showcases a new soapstone fireplace surround and mantel designed by Churchill. A unique artistic element in this room is the custom wallpaper, created by the homeowner, an artist, from scans of the town’s handwritten 1820 U.S. Census, printed on heavy paper and adhered to the walls. The living room, bright and airy, incorporates the homeowners' midcentury modern furniture. New southern yellow pine floors in this area and the kitchen were stained dark to seamlessly blend with the older flooring. The original fireplace remains a focal point, adorned with antique candlesticks. The kitchen, located at the rear of the house, retained its original position but underwent a significant reconfiguration. A previously existing large pantry and staircase, which had isolated the kitchen, were removed to maximize space for cabinets and counters and improve flow to the living room. The kitchen’s notably low ceiling was also raised to create a more open atmosphere. Modern elements are thoughtfully integrated, such as an LED chandelier chosen for the kitchen table due to its contemporary aesthetic and transparency, allowing views to the outside. The dining table in the kitchen is a custom piece by furniture designer Seth Churchill, the architect’s brother. Upstairs, the original wood flooring continues in the hallway and bedrooms. All doors were refitted, and their hardware repaired, with some trim components added to match existing historical details. A guest bedroom, situated in the rear addition above the kitchen, features a lower ceiling compared to the main house. An original structural wood beam is visible, adding character. Furnishings in this room were repurposed from the homeowners’ previous residence, and Hendricks resized drapery panels. Wood planks from the guest bedroom were used to repair flooring in the master bedroom, leading to the new pine flooring in the guest room being painted, a choice the architect noted as desirable in older homes, especially on upper floors. #FarmhouseRenovation #HistoricHome #FederalStyle #ArchitecturalPreservation #InteriorDesign #ConnecticutHomes #HomeRestoration #RafeChurchill #HeideHendricks

The article focuses on the recent availability of one of San Francisco's iconic Painted Ladies in Alamo Square, a Queen Anne-style Victorian home, for $2.7 million. Despite its significant price tag and historical charm, the 1,700-square-foot property is described as being in need of a renovation. The home retains appealing original features such as high ceilings, a carved-wood staircase, and stained-glass windows, but also presents areas requiring significant updates, including dirty floors, tiny bathrooms, and dated kitchen cabinets. To explore the renovation potential of this historic home, the author gathered insights from six architectural and design professionals. Each expert provided distinct recommendations for transforming the property while respecting its original character. Caitlin Murray of Black Lacquer Design suggested enhancing the hand-carved trim work with bold, unexpected paint colors like jet black or bright yellow, along with high-gloss finishes for a modern touch. She also emphasized the use of impactful wallpaper prints, such as florals or stripes, particularly for a large blank wall in the dining area. Drew Lang of Lang Architecture proposed preserving the historically significant facade but advocated for updating and expanding the rear-facing windows to increase natural light within the home. Lang also highlighted the importance of integrating an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) into the HVAC system for improved energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Haley Weidenbaum, founder of Everhem, recommended the installation of inside-mounted woven wood or Roman shades for areas requiring privacy, noting that these would block sunlight while allowing the intricate detailing of the window frames to remain visible. NYC-based designer Becky Shea envisioned a dramatic transformation for the foyer, suggesting the replacement of the existing bland white tiles with graphic black options, such as Fireclay’s Star & Cross pattern, to add depth. She also recommended a showstopping light fixture, specifically Lindsey Adelman’s Drop System, to create an impactful first impression for guests. Ariel Okin suggested extending the house’s exterior pastel and sherbet palette to the interior, balancing the playful colors with cooler materials like iron, terrazzo, and cerused woods to prevent the scheme from appearing too childish. Holly Waterfield, lead designer at The Brooklyn Home Company, focused on the kitchen and dining area, proposing an open-plan layout that encompasses both spaces. Her design included a central island to provide additional storage and serve as an anchor for the room. For the walls, Waterfield suggested a warm white hue with a Portola plaster finish to achieve a weathered aesthetic. She also recommended replacing the floors with natural white oak, finished with a super-matte, water-based color, to complete the home's fresh renovation. #VictorianHome #SanFrancisco #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #HistoricHomes #AlamoSquare #DesignTrends

The article showcases a historic Clifton mansion, built in 1873, which was a wedding gift to Olivia Elizabeth Procter, daughter of Procter & Gamble co-founder William Procter, and her husband, pork packer Thomas Morrison. This grand residence, designed by Samuel Hannaford and Sons, blends various architectural styles, predominantly High Victorian, and spans 8,459 square feet with 17 rooms. Many of the original features have been preserved, including built-in interior wood shutters that retract into custom pockets, and distinctive inlaid wood floor patterns on the first floor, such as a unique parquet in the dining room. The front hall features painted leather wainscoting, and a rare two-way spring-style door hinge is found in the butler’s pantry, a detail so notable it was highlighted in the local architecture book 'Great Houses of the Queen City.' According to Perrin March, a Coldwell Banker West Shell agent, each room offers unique characteristics. For instance, the smaller front parlor incorporates 13 different wood species, reportedly one for each of the original colonies. The large parlor houses two oil paintings that have been part of the home's history for nearly 142 years, including a portrait of Olivia Procter herself. A wall-mounted bell near the back staircase suggests its historical use to signal kitchen staff. Despite its historical integrity, the mansion has undergone modern updates while maintaining a period-appropriate aesthetic. These improvements include a master bathroom finished with marble, a fully renovated kitchen, and a sprawling basement wine room. The wine room is equipped with a large stone fireplace and two adjacent glass-walled storage areas designed to hold up to 2,600 bottles of wine. The property is currently listed at $1.2 million. #Clifton #HistoricHome #RealEstate #VictorianArchitecture #Cincinnati #Mansion #SamuelHannaford #ProcterAndGamble #HomeTour

The "Nirvana" estate, a mansion designed as a Zen-like paradise, has been listed for $25 million in Manalapan, Florida, within Palm Beach county. This oceanfront property seamlessly blends Zen and Buddhist influences with luxurious amenities, reflecting an "East-meets-West" theme, as described by Senada Adzem, director of luxury sales at Douglas Elliman real estate. The residence spans 12,244 square feet, with every detail curated to create an atmosphere of tranquility and opulence. Upon entering, the interior showcases tasteful details and muted color palettes, contributing to a relaxed ambiance. Luxurious touches are evident throughout, such as the cross-beamed ceiling in the family room. The kitchen is a focal point, featuring unique light fixtures above the island and intricately carved cabinetry. A sizable saltwater aquarium overlooks the shadowboxed dining room, adding a distinctive element to the space. The formal living room offers a commanding view of the ocean, complemented by a newly constructed seawall, and is adorned with a crystal chandelier and sconces mounted on a carved stone fireplace. The mansion includes several specialized rooms, such as a Buddhist prayer room, underscoring its Zen inspiration, and a sophisticated cinema room designed to replicate the grandeur of a classic art-house movie theatre. The master bathroom is appointed with custom cabinetry, a freestanding tub, and a walk-in glass shower, with the tub specifically positioned to offer an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. Outside, the estate features private, grotto-like garden paths that are meticulously landscaped, creating a serene environment ideal for meditation. These paths provide a scenic route to the ocean, evoking an "Alice in Wonderland" aesthetic. From the rear of the house, the Spanish tile roof is a noticeable architectural detail. The outdoor area also boasts artful columns and arches overlooking an infinity-edge pool, along with an open-air sitting area designed to provide comfort away from the Florida sun. A straw hut covers an additional poolside seating area, offering another cozy spot with a stunning view. Beyond the main residence, the property includes a dock on Lake Worth Inlet, capable of accommodating a 130-foot yacht, and a full-size tennis court. The Nirvana estate is presented as a harmonious fusion of modern design, spiritual elements, and lavish comforts, offering a unique living experience in a prime oceanfront location. #Mansion #PalmBeachRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #ZenInspiredDesign #OceanfrontProperty #FloridaRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #HighEndLiving #NirvanaEstate

Fredrik Eklund, a prominent real estate agent from *Million Dollar Listing New York*, offers a glimpse into his serene Connecticut home, which serves as a peaceful retreat from his demanding professional life and family responsibilities. Currently based in Miami, Eklund frequently escapes to this country house, where he resides with his husband, Derek Kaplan, and their twins, Milla and Freddy. The article details both the interior and exterior aspects of this tranquil residence, highlighting features that contribute to its calming atmosphere. Inside the home, Eklund has shared photographs showcasing various rooms. The kitchen and living room are depicted as inviting spaces, with the living room featuring a notable fireplace. His bedroom is described as super cozy, and a distinctive sauna room stands out. This sauna, according to Eklund, offers a view of the outdoors and is inspired by his childhood in Sweden. He considers it "the most zen place" where he engages in sweating and meditation. These interior elements reflect a design philosophy focused on comfort, natural light, and personal well-being. Eklund also provided new images of the house's exterior, revealing a pale brick colonial-style mansion. The grounds are characterized by lush green grass, a tranquil pond, and meticulously maintained hedges adorned with overflowing planters. These exterior features emphasize the property's natural beauty and its role as a picturesque country escape. Eklund shared these images on his Instagram Story, expressing his affection for the home by writing, "Home is where the heart is," and commending his new gardener, Adam, for the upkeep of the hedges. The article contextualizes Eklund's need for such a retreat by mentioning his busy life, which involves complex real estate deals and raising his children. He recently sold his Beverly Hills house for $10 million, indicating a shift in his real estate portfolio. Furthermore, Eklund provided updates on his children's lives as they prepare for first grade in Florida. Freddy is scheduled for chess camp, while Milla shows artistic talent in painting and drawing, spending hours in the studio. Eklund noted their growing social circle in Miami, suggesting a vibrant but demanding family life that underscores the value of his Connecticut sanctuary. This Connecticut home represents more than just a residence; it is a carefully curated space designed for relaxation and personal rejuvenation, aligning with Eklund's needs to balance his high-pressure career and family life. The design choices, both inside and out, prioritize a sense of peace and connection to nature, offering a consistent theme of tranquility throughout the property. #FredrikEklund #MillionDollarListingNewYork #ConnecticutHome #RealEstateAgent #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SaunaDesign #CountryLiving #FamilyLife

Mark and Mitzi Knust, a Houston couple, undertook a comprehensive renovation of their Galveston Bay vacation home to accommodate their expanding family, including grandchildren. Mark Knust's childhood memories of spending summers in his family's Galveston vacation home inspired a desire for his own children and grandchildren to share similar experiences. In 1985, the couple initially purchased a home in Pirates Cove with Mark’s brother, but later acquired a larger property in the same neighborhood to better suit their growing family. This home became a cherished place where their two sons, now 34 and 31, learned to fish and swim, and frequently hosted friends. The home faced significant damage in 2008 from Hurricane Ike’s storm surge, which destroyed the bottom level and led to looting. Despite this setback, the Knusts rebuilt and continued to host family and friends. By 2015, with the arrival of grandchildren, they recognized the need for an even larger space to comfortably host three generations and foster their shared love for water sports. After considering building a new home, they opted to purchase an existing property in Pirates Cove, confident that with the right professionals, they could transform it into their ideal family retreat. They enlisted Doug LeBoeuf of LeBoeuf Homes, their preferred builder, and interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. The renovation, which began in January 2016 and concluded in November of the same year, aimed for a more contemporary aesthetic with light colors and comfortable, casual furnishings. Given Mark's height of 6 feet 5 inches and their sons' similar stature (one being a 275-pound power lifter), the furniture needed to be sturdy and generously sized. The design also had to be sophisticated enough for semi-retired grandparents while durable enough for a messy grandchild who enjoyed spaghetti. The initial design challenges included yellow interior walls and dated, traditional furnishings. Flanigan's approach prioritized maximizing changes within a reasonable budget. A key transformation involved repainting the yellow walls white, often incorporating a shiplap treatment, to create a clean, fresh, coastal, and airy atmosphere. The color palette shifted to contemporary grays and earthy neutrals, accented with soft blue-green tones inspired by the ocean. Durability was a paramount concern, with nearly all furniture being new and upholstered in tough, indoor-outdoor fabrics to ensure the home was extremely livable for active grandchildren. The renovation also included a complete overhaul of the master bathroom and significant updates to the kitchen and other bathrooms. Major surface changes included refinishing the wood flooring from an orange-pine to a natural look. The chunky limestone fireplace was replaced with a concrete finish, shiplap, and a reclaimed wood mantel, with ceramic balls inside the fireplace becoming a favorite feature for Mark. Four-inch tiles on kitchen and bathroom counters were replaced with sheets of super-sturdy Neolith sintered stone. In the master bathroom, an oversized garden tub was replaced with a slimmer soaking tub, and Saltillo tile was swapped for wood-look porcelain tile in a dark taupe finish. Natural wood cabinets were stained brown and topped with gray-veined Neolith stone, mimicking Carrara marble without the maintenance. The finished design created a clean and flawless environment, with comfortable furniture and rooms perfectly suited to the Knusts and their family. One guest room was specifically designed for grandchildren with twin beds and matching trunks, and a sectional sofa on the second-floor landing provided additional sleeping space. The couple’s collaboration with Flanigan, despite initial hesitations from Mark on certain design elements like the ceramic fireplace balls and a large pendant light in the master bedroom, ultimately resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing home that met their intergenerational living needs. The home also incorporated sentimental elements, such as a collection of wildlife art and taxidermy fish mounts, which Flanigan’s team successfully integrated into the updated décor. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GalvestonBayHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalDecor #BeforeAndAfter #MarieFlaniganInteriors #LeBoeufHomes #DesignTransformation

Ponden Hall, a historic country house in Yorkshire, which is widely recognized as the inspiration for Emily Brontë's renowned novel, *Wuthering Heights*, has recently been listed for sale. This significant property is situated near the Brontë family parsonage in Haworth and holds considerable literary importance. While Emily Brontë drew inspiration from Ponden Hall for elements of *Wuthering Heights*, particularly the interior details that influenced the depiction of Thrushcross Grange, Anne Brontë also utilized the house as the model for the titular residence in her novel, *The Tenant of Wildfell Hall*. The property, marketed by Strutt & Parker at an asking price of £1 million, boasts a rich history, with its oldest sections dating back to 1541, though the majority of the current structure was built in 1634. The architectural integrity of Ponden Hall is evident in its authentic beams, walls, floors, ceilings, fireplaces, and windows, which have been preserved over centuries. The current owners have enhanced this historical ambiance with period-appropriate furniture, which is also available for separate negotiation. Ponden Hall is substantial in size, featuring eight bedrooms and a two-bedroom annex, making it suitable for a large family, staff accommodation, or as a potential holiday rental, appealing especially to literary tourists. The annex offers two en-suite rooms on the ground floor with an open-plan living space above. The main house includes a large living/dining room, a kitchen/breakfast room, two downstairs bedrooms, and six upstairs bedrooms, two of which are en-suite. The property also encompasses four acres of land and a paddock, and is accessed via Scar Top Road, a lane with a fittingly Gothic name. For many years, Ponden Hall has operated as a bed and breakfast, indicating its versatility as either a commercial enterprise or a private family residence. Its continued availability on the market offers an opportunity for a new owner to immerse themselves in a piece of literary history. The article playfully suggests that while it may inspire another famous book, future generations of A-level students, who may share the author's past struggles with *Wuthering Heights*, might not appreciate the connection in the same way. #PondenHall #WutheringHeights #EmilyBrontë #LiteraryLandmark #YorkshireProperty #HistoricHome #CountryHouse #RealEstate #BrontëSisters

The article highlights a 19th-century Anglo-Italianate row house located at 212 Columbia Heights in the Brooklyn Heights Historic District, currently listed for $18.25 million. This property is frequently featured on Instagram for its bright facade and meticulously maintained window boxes, and it also offers an enticing rear facade facing the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, providing views of the waterfront and the Manhattan skyline. The house, predating the Civil War, was originally owned by Coe and Mary Adams, who marketed it in 1873 as having "all the modern improvements." While its original brown facade has since been painted white and the stoop railings altered from a circa 1940 tax photo, it retains distinctive architectural elements such as round arched windows and a door surround characteristic of the Anglo-Italianate style. Throughout its history, the property has been home to notable figures, including Travis and Rosalie Whitney, who acquired it in 1918. Rosalie Loew Whitney, a New York Bar member since 1895, practiced law with her husband and was later appointed a judge in the 1930s. The Whitneys implemented interior modifications during their ownership. Records indicate that the house was converted into a two-family residence in 1956 before being reverted to a single-family dwelling in 2008. The residence encompasses five floors of living space, supplemented by a finished cellar that includes a "recreation/guest suite" and direct access to the backyard. The garden level, slightly sunken, features a den and a spacious kitchen equipped with white cabinetry. The parlor level boasts grandly scaled details such as high ceilings, wood floors with inlaid borders, and a marble mantel in the front. The dining room at the rear of this level includes a bay window offering water views and overlooks a porch adorned with cast-iron railings and columns. The property comprises four full bathrooms and one half-bath, with a powder room featuring Morris & Co. "Pimpernel" wallpaper, first introduced in 1876. One of the upper floors is configured as a full suite, complete with a dressing room, walk-in closet, en-suite bathroom, and a sitting room with a mantel. Additional amenities include two cedar closets on the top floor and a wine cellar within the finished basement. The garden area, situated below the Brooklyn Heights Promenade walkway, is paved and encircled by planting beds. In 2012, following a renovation, the house established a Brooklyn Heights record by selling for $11 million. The current asking price of $18.25 million positions it to potentially approach the recent record sale of another large brownstone overlooking the Promenade, 8 Montague Terrace, which sold for $25.5 million. The listing is managed by Ravi Kantha, Matthew Lesser, Gian Mitchell, and Cameron LeCates of Leslie J. Garfield. #BrooklynHeights #RowHouse #HistoricArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #NewYorkCity #WaterfrontViews #AngloItalianate #PropertyListing

Scallop Path, a nearly 7.5-acre private island property in Cape Cod, is currently listed for $19.8 million. This historic estate, once owned by the renowned designer and horticulturalist Bunny Mellon, offers panoramic water views and meticulously designed gardens. The property comprises a 17th-century main house spanning 5,894 square feet and a guest house constructed by the Mellon family in the 1970s. Thomas Lloyd, Mellon's grandson, is the current seller and has overseen recent renovations, including window and roof updates, and the addition of a new living room window to enhance waterfront vistas. The main house, believed to date back to 1680, was historically moved from mainland Cape Cod to Oyster Harbors, a private island. It features seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, along with distinctive architectural details and hidden passageways that reflect its Colonial American origins, potentially serving as a hiding place during King Philip's War. The Mellon family undertook a sensitive restoration of the property in the 1970s, balancing historical preservation with modern enhancements. Notable interior features include pumpkin pine floors installed by Bunny Mellon and original wood beams. The property's gardens are a key highlight, meticulously designed and cultivated by Bunny Mellon, who was also responsible for redesigning the White House Rose Garden. These lush gardens feature a variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables, showcasing Mellon's horticultural expertise. To ensure their long-term preservation, Lloyd has collaborated with a local landscaping firm to install an irrigation system and replace annual plants with perennials, making maintenance easier for future owners. In addition to the main residence, the estate includes a guest house with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. Other structures on the property include a charming wood shed, a boathouse, and a garage, all maintaining historic architectural elements. The property's strategic location provides 270-degree views of Nantucket Sound and Martha's Vineyard, with every room in the main house offering a glimpse of the scenic surroundings. For potential buyers interested in further customization, architect Patrick Ahearn has developed a video showcasing possibilities for transforming Scallop Path. Ahearn's vision includes preserving the original main house as a secondary living space by moving it, allowing for the construction of a new custom home on its current site. This approach aims to honor the property's historical legacy while accommodating contemporary needs. Interested parties can contact Zenas Crocker for more details on this unique and historically significant Cape Cod estate. #HistoricHome #CapeCod #LuxuryRealEstate #BunnyMellon #GardenDesign #ColonialArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #InteriorDesign #EstateSale

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi's Tuscan-inspired estate in Santa Barbara has seen a significant price reduction, now listed for $39.5 million, down from its initial $45 million in March 2017. The 10,500-square-foot villa, situated on a sprawling 16.88-acre lot, was designed in 1930 by architect Wallace Frost to emulate classic Italian architecture, offering panoramic views of both the ocean and mountains. Its secluded location in the Santa Barbara hills provides a private retreat. The exterior of the property is a true oasis, boasting a meticulously maintained landscape featuring olive and eucalyptus trees, various fountains, sculptures, a tennis court, and a Roman-style swimming pool. A separate entertainment pavilion further enhances the outdoor living experience. Inside, the six-bedroom house maintains an authentic Tuscan villa aesthetic with terracotta surfaces, 18th-century tiles, vintage light fixtures, and exposed beam ceilings. DeGeneres herself described the home in her 2015 book, 'Home,' emphasizing its harmonious integration with nature, making it feel ancient and intrinsically connected to the landscape. DeGeneres, known for her passion for home decor and real estate, and having launched her own homeware collection, originally acquired the property with de Rossi in 2012 for approximately $26.5 million. The couple has since purchased another contemporary mansion in Carpinteria, California, for $18.6 million. The listing for the Santa Barbara estate is currently held by Suzanne Perkins of Sotheby’s International Realty. This price adjustment offers a glimpse into the couple's evolving real estate portfolio and an opportunity for prospective buyers to acquire a piece of their past design preferences. #EllenDeGeneres #SantaBarbara #LuxuryRealEstate #TuscanVilla #HomeDecor #CelebrityHomes #RealEstateInvestment #InteriorDesign #Architecture

Architect Horace Gifford, renowned for his modernist designs, transformed New York's Fire Island starting in the 1960s, creating 63 homes. Among these is a notable 1967 residence located at 46 Schooner Walk, currently listed for $3.75 million by Jamie Winkler of Winkler Real Estate Inc. This five-bedroom beach house is situated on a coveted beachfront lot in the village of Ocean Beach, within the Summer Club community, offering unobstructed views where sand extends to the edges of its timber-slatted deck. The home exemplifies Gifford's signature style, characterized by natural cedar cladding on both its exterior and interior. It features floor-to-ceiling arched windows that provide extensive views of the beach and ocean. The design also incorporates subtle sculptural curves that complement the otherwise rectilinear structure. Entry to the residence is marked by a waist-high gate flanked by two curvy wooden storage units. The front door, positioned perpendicular to a gently sloping staircase, opens directly into the main living area. The main living space is defined by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling and a long wall of sliding glass doors topped with curved clerestory windows. Gifford ingeniously extended these four barrel vaults to the exterior, forming a cedar canopy that partially shades the wraparound deck. The open-plan kitchen, which is part of this expansive area, also benefits from the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering picturesque views. However, the kitchen maintains a cozier atmosphere with a lower, flat ceiling, which accentuates the spaciousness of the adjacent living and dining areas. The kitchen is outfitted with granite countertops, wooden cabinetry, and a mirrored backsplash. The principal bedroom is strategically located beyond the main living area, also featuring a wall of glass that overlooks the beach and matching clerestory windows, ensuring it shares the bright, open aesthetic of the common spaces. On the opposite side of the house, four additional bedrooms are connected to a landscaped yard. This yard includes a boardwalk leading to an outdoor seating area, and further back, a fence-enclosed outdoor shower and dressing area, enhancing the beach-living experience. Horace Gifford, originally from coastal Florida, began his architectural career in New York after earning his degree from the University of Florida. He later pursued a master's degree under Louis Kahn at the University of Pennsylvania but returned to his New York firm before completing his studies. His significant influence on Fire Island's architecture is well-documented in Christopher Rawlins's 2013 book, 'Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction,' which highlights how his beach houses transformed the island's landscape and culture. Gifford passed away in 1992 at the age of 59 due to complications from AIDS, but his modernist designs continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and warm, inviting character. #ModernistArchitecture #BeachHouse #FireIsland #HoraceGifford #CedarDesign #BarrelVaultedCeiling #OceanfrontProperty #RealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory

Athena Calderone, the founder of EyeSwoon, is selling 14 unique furniture pieces from her former Brooklyn townhouse. This comes two years after she and her family relocated to a Tribeca apartment. The collection includes items that were prominently featured in her previous Instagram-worthy home, notably her iconic Camaleonda sofa. The sale offers enthusiasts and collectors an opportunity to acquire high-end, one-of-a-kind design elements that previously graced her acclaimed residence. Among the items available is a Jacques Adnet credenza, crafted from solid oak around 1946, which Calderone acquired at an estate sale in France, priced at $26,000. Its intricate detailing on the doors suggests minimal additional styling is needed. Another significant offering is a set of F815 lounge chairs by Theo Ruth, reupholstered in a cream nubby fabric, priced at $10,000. These chairs are presented as suitable companions for a marble coffee table and a neutral sofa. A more contemporary piece, a plaster-coated chandelier by Atelier Demiurge, is also for sale at $2,200, designed to create an illusion of timelessness when paired with elaborate ceiling molding. For bedroom accents, a 1950s velvet bench, priced at $3,500, is part of the collection, reflecting Calderone's appreciation for chic seating at the foot of a bed. The sale also includes a Murano glass bathroom light fixture, a 1930s glass and gold leaf chandelier available for $7,500, intended to elevate a freestanding tub into a spa-like setting. An entryway accent piece, a Giulia Guglielmo Veronesi Perla Chair, reupholstered in green mohair and priced at $5,500, is offered as a welcoming element for guests. Additionally, four mid-century wall lamps, previously mounted above a long marble shelf in Calderone's kitchen, are being sold as a set for $6,500. These sconces contributed to the breezy aesthetic of her highly photographed kitchen, known for its lack of upper cabinets. The full list of items is available on EyeSwoon's blog, and interested buyers are directed to contact [email protected]. The article specifies that these are collectible pieces, and only serious inquiries are welcomed, with buyers responsible for local NYC pickup or shipping. In addition to these exclusive pieces, Calderone plans to host a studio sale on June 4 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 291 Broadway, Unit 1105, New York City, featuring archive props, decorative items, and pre-loved objects at more accessible price points. #AthenaCalderone #BrooklynTownhouse #FurnitureSale #HomeDecor #LuxuryDesign #VintageFurniture #InteriorDesign #CollectiblePieces

Interior designer Carrie Valentine's home in Mora, Minnesota, known as the Black House, is currently on the market. Valentine has lived in the bucolic-inspired residence since 2021, and it is located on five acres along the Snake River. The design of the house draws inspiration from early American Colonial architecture, incorporating nature-inspired tones and carefully selected materials. Key features of the home's interior include an unlacquered copper soaking tub, antique lighting, lime paint, a marble plaster range hood, and a limestone hearth. Abundant natural light is a significant element, contributing to a lived-in and soulful atmosphere. The overall aesthetic is a European farmhouse style, blending modern and timeless elements, designed to be suitable for a young family. The primary suite and its adjoining bathroom are highlighted as a retreat, particularly featuring the luxurious oversized copper tub. Another significant area of the home is the kitchen, described as warm and spacious, capable of hosting large gatherings. This family-favorite space is filled with natural light and seamlessly connects to the dining room, making it a central hub of the house. Mya Honeywell, the listing agent from Coldwell Banker Realty, emphasizes the patina of the Black House, referring to the quiet confidence of materials that improve with age. She notes that the landscape also reflects this philosophy, planted with native species and fruit trees that cycle through seasons, restoring the soil and honoring time, touch, and transformation. Valentine, a native Minnesotan, expressed a deep connection to the rural landscape. With assistance from Minnesota Native Landscapes, an acre of the property was restored to support pollinators and a thriving ecosystem. The land also features apple, pear, and cherry trees. Valentine hopes the next homeowner will continue to build on this vision and enjoy both the natural environment and the home itself. The property offers opportunities for exploring winding trails, enjoying evenings by the river, or gathering around a fire pit under the stars, presenting potential for a peaceful retreat, a hobby farm, or a space for growth. #CarrieValentine #HomeDesign #RealEstate #Minnesota #BucolicStyle #InteriorDesign #EuropeanFarmhouse

The article features the 1966 Richard Neutra-designed home at 3737 Oakfield Drive in Sherman Oaks, California, which is currently on the market for $1.55 million. This residence is one of 17 'stilt homes' known as Platform Houses, characterized by their significant cantilevering structures that extend over the steep valley slopes, offering dramatic views. The 1,800-square-foot house embodies classic Neutra design principles, including expansive floor-to-ceiling glass, an open and simple floor plan, and a strong horizontal architectural emphasis. From the street, the property presents as a typical midcentury home with a flat overhanging roof, stucco and wood cladding, and conventional punched windows. A privacy fence constructed from wood and weathered steel enhances its street-facing facade. However, upon entering, the interior reveals a dramatic contrast, particularly at the rear, where large floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the valley. The open-plan living and dining areas are centrally oriented to these views, complemented by an original wood-burning fireplace clad in fieldstone, which adds a textured and earthy element to the space. The home has undergone various updates over the years, carefully balancing modernization with the preservation of its original character. Technological enhancements include a Sonos system, Control 4 smart home technology, automated blackout shades, a drop-down projection screen, a theater-grade projector, and a 7.1 surround sound system, creating a high-quality home theater experience. The kitchen and bathrooms have been renovated with stone counters and simple white cabinetry. The master en-suite bathroom boasts heated floors and a steam shower. An outdoor terrace is accessible through large sliding glass doors, extending the living space outdoors. The property also features a tranquil Zen side garden and a second bedroom equipped with a walk-in closet and views of the garden. The side yard's Zen garden includes local plantings and a partially covered area under a cantilevering roof. The residence's distinctive design and picturesque setting have made it a frequent location for movies and television shows. Michelle Schwartz of The Agency currently lists 3737 Oakfield Drive. #RichardNeutra #MidcenturyModern #PlatformHouse #ShermanOaks #CaliforniaArchitecture #RealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #CantileveredHome #SmartHome

This blog post highlights a renovated 1970s ranch house in Sonoma, California, demonstrating how to update a property while preserving its original architectural character. The homeowner, Kurt Neubert, chose to refresh the existing structure rather than undertaking a complete remodel, resulting in a transformed yet authentic ranch house. The 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is currently listed for $2.25 million, showcasing a blend of subtle design elements and carefully curated materials. The exterior of the house features an earthy, olive green color that covers the moldings, window trims, and main facade, with a white accent along the roofline. This color choice helps the home integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, characterized by salt-and-pepper rocks and mature olive trees. The front door serves as a focal point, painted in a contrasting black with a large window and sidelight panels, complemented by black half-cylinder sconces and modern house numbers. The front yard employs a minimalist, low-water landscape design, incorporating pebbles, aloe vera, and succulents, with symmetrical limestone squares adding visual interest. The mature olive trees in the front yard also provide natural privacy. Inside, the home continues the theme of simplicity and expert material curation. The flooring includes French oak in the bedrooms, Italian porcelain tile in the kitchen, and Jerusalem tile in the bathrooms. The kitchen boasts quartz blend countertops, offering an attractive and more affordable alternative to solid quartz. The original kitchen cabinets were retained and refreshed with a new coat of paint, complemented by low-cost handles. A Brazilian granite face modernizes the fireplace, and the use of white paint from floor to ceiling creates an expansive and open feel throughout the living spaces. Neubert's approach demonstrates that mixing inexpensive and expensive elements can achieve a cohesive and sophisticated design. The interior design is further enhanced by thoughtfully selected furniture pieces upholstered in “high performance fabrics” such as Kravet Couture mohair and microfiber, which are both durable and stylish. In the backyard, the pool has been resurfaced with an aggregate material containing teal quartz and is surrounded by glass tiles that reflect light at night, creating a shimmering effect. The pool's color is intended to evoke the Aegean Sea. This renovation project serves as an example of how a dated ranch house can be revitalized through strategic updates to finishes and careful attention to design details, maintaining its original charm while incorporating modern sensibilities and sustainable practices. The property is listed by Daniel Casabonne of Sotheby’s International Real Estate. #ranchHouseMakeover #SonomaRanchHouseRefresh #homeRenovation #interiorDesign #exteriorDesign #sustainableLandscape #realEstate #SonomaHome #mediterraneanInfluence