This Husband Transformed an Unfinished Attic Into His Wife's Dream Closet

This article details the home renovation project undertaken by Victoria and Marcus Ford, focusing on the transformation of their bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. The couple's approach to home decor is described as "intentional," selecting items that reflect their personalities and bring soul to their living spaces. The bedroom makeover centered on creating a tranquil retreat using a light blue paint color for the walls, complemented by darker blue tones in a patchwork quilt and a Kazak-style rug. Personal touches such as souvenir pennants, vintage tennis rackets, and an old state fair sign were integrated to add meaning. A gallery wall above the bed features reproduced "Black ABCs" flash cards, reflecting Victoria's appreciation for African American culture. For functionality, a multipurpose desk replaced traditional nightstands, accommodating work-from-home needs and paired with a repurposed barrel chair. The bedroom also incorporated a pillow-top mattress from the Country Living Welcome Home collection to enhance comfort. Nautical elements, including a flag with Captain James Lawrence's famous order and wooden African American sea captains, were introduced on a dresser, which was painted in Sherwin-Williams' Courtyard, to align with Marcus's interests. The bathroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, moving from an off-center vanity layout to a symmetrical design featuring two wooden vanities. This transformation incorporated a mix of ribbed hardware, brass sconces, chrome faucets, and brass-framed mirrors to create a layered, evolved aesthetic. A large-scale, four-inch hexagon tile flower motif on the floor provided a fresh yet nostalgic feel. A key design element was the sixty-inch-tall blue beadboard wainscoting, adding both height and texture to the space. The shower area was also expanded by removing a glass door, and its walls and ceiling were covered with handmade dusty blue subway tiles, designed to seamlessly integrate with the bathroom's blue theme. For the laundry room, an unused bedroom and an extra hall closet were combined to create a dedicated and spacious area. The new layout features a space-saving laundry tower, built-in cabinets with folding space, and a small work sink. The couple chose a navy and white striped shirt motif wallpaper, which Victoria found appealing and appropriate for the room's function. A large checkerboard tile floor, laid diagonally, was selected to visually expand the space and complement the wallpaper and navy high-gloss paint on the millwork. A vintage sink, reminiscent of Victoria's childhood, was installed, accompanied by a print from artist Elizabeth Mayville. The article highlights the detailed choices and personal touches that defined each room's renovation, resulting in spaces that are both functional and deeply personal to the homeowners. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #BedroomMakeover #BathroomRemodel #LaundryRoom #DecoratingIdeas #CountryLiving #HouseTour

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Chriselle Lim, creator of The Chriselle Factor blog, collaborated with designer Lucinda Pace of Laurel & Wolf to redesign her Los Angeles home, which is also her husband Allen's childhood residence. The objective was to infuse Chriselle's personal style into the home, transforming it into a luxurious and modern living space for herself, Allen, and their daughter, Chloé. The dining room was a primary focus of the renovation due to its outdated built-in cabinets and tendency to accumulate clutter. Chriselle envisioned a polished, contemporary, and mature aesthetic for this area. Lucinda Pace approached the dining room transformation by first selecting a chandelier and dining table, which then guided subsequent design choices. The design incorporated high-end fabrics and metallic accents, blending both commercially available and custom-designed furniture pieces. The existing built-in cabinets were revitalized by applying black lacquer paint, adding an antique mirror, and installing new brass hardware, thereby converting them into a sophisticated bar area. The designer described the outcome as "modern and fresh," creating an ideal setting for entertaining guests. Key elements in achieving the glamorous look included Jonathan Adler's Meurice Chandelier and Bond Dining Table. A more budget-friendly alternative for the chandelier, West Elm's Mobile Chandelier, was also suggested. The dining room's floor was adorned with a wool rug from Loloi Rug Company, and Lucinda custom-designed the dining chairs to accommodate Chriselle's young family and frequent visits from both sets of in-laws. The bar area was accessorized with items primarily from Z Gallerie, such as a gold Decanter Set. Chriselle's design philosophy balanced luxurious accent pieces, like Kelly Wearstler's Liason Ice Bucket, with more affordable decorative items from Z Gallerie, including the Filigree Jar and Agate Tealight. The dining table followed a similar decorating scheme, featuring gold-toned items such as Z Gallerie's Miami Vase. Chriselle expressed satisfaction with the renovation, noting that the transformed house reflects her personal style, which she characterizes as elegant, glamorous, yet cozy and rustic. The project successfully converted a family home with a history into a contemporary and sophisticated oasis tailored to the blogger's refined taste and lifestyle. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DiningRoomMakeover #LuxuryDecor #GlamorousStyle #BeforeAndAfter #ChriselleLim #LaurelAndWolf #DesignerCollaboration

This article details the transformation of a previously neglected loft space in an interior designer's flat in Nottingham into a functional and aesthetically pleasing dressing room and home office. The interior designer, Jodie Hazlewood, embarked on this renovation after completing most of her flat, with the loft remaining as a 'dumping ground.' The conversion resulted in a whimsical and colorful space, accessible via a powder blue doorway from an adjacent bedroom. Hazlewood discusses the initial state of the property, highlighting its lack of working plumbing or heating, 1960s windows, and damp issues. Despite these challenges, she recognized the potential in the spacious layout. The loft, initially discovered through a ceiling hatch, was a large void in the eaves. The renovation involved converting this area into a bedroom alongside the new dressing room/office. A key part of the transformation was the installation of four Velux windows, including a 2-in-1 model, which significantly increased the natural light within the space. One of the main challenges encountered during the project was exceeding the budget due to the extensive building work required for the conversion. Hazlewood expresses her satisfaction with the transformation, emphasizing the practicality and improved lighting of the redesigned space. The renovation process, from discovery to completion, spanned over three years, a duration Hazlewood feels was beneficial as it allowed her to fully understand her needs for the space. Among her favorite elements are the well-lit desk and dressing table, as well as the ample clothing storage solutions. Hazlewood also integrated some of her own designs, including occasional chairs, a storage ottoman, a dressing table, and a stool, which are available on her website. The article notes that the large mirror, lamps, and area rug were sourced from OKA. The aesthetic is further enhanced by specific design choices, such as The Enchanted Woodland wallpaper by Minnie Kemp x MINDTHEGAP and paint colors like Chaste and Brimstone by Paint & Paper Library. Hazlewood's design philosophy involves combining vibrant elements with calmer touches to achieve a balanced look. #LoftConversion #HomeOffice #DressingRoom #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BeforeAndAfter #NottinghamHomes #VeluxWindows #WallpaperDesign

Marie Lu, a bestselling author, and Primo Gallanossa, a game designer, sought a flexible and inspiring urban sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles's Arts District. They commissioned architecture firm CHA:COL to transform a 1,450-square-foot live/work loft into a space that could accommodate their writing and game design needs between frequent travels. The design brief emphasized creating a creative den for work, relaxation, and retreat. CHA:COL, led by design principals Apurva Pande and Chinmaya Misra, drew inspiration from the couple's professional backgrounds, particularly the game "Monument Valley" and the whimsical geometries of M.C. Escher. The central element of the loft is the "Writer’s Block," a custom-designed, multifaceted piece of oak veneer millwork. This versatile unit functions as a desk on one side, a lounge on the other, and incorporates shelving, effectively dividing the space while offering multiple uses. The design aimed to allow the clients to navigate and inhabit the loft in unique ways, much like Princess Ida moves through different levels in the Monument Valley game. The loft's design integrates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements. For example, white oak planks from the Writer’s Block seamlessly transition into FLOR carpet tiles that extend up an opposing wall, complemented by a matching mural. This playful mashup creates an optical illusion, making the two-dimensional elements appear three-dimensional and vice versa. Extensive studies were conducted to achieve the precise geometry for the wall art, eventually simplifying to paint swatches to complete the effect. Beyond the primary workspace, the loft also includes dedicated sleeping and kitchen areas. The kitchen features IKEA cabinets and a peninsular bar designed to encourage social interaction. Acoustic considerations were incorporated into the design, and the space is illuminated by a Zaneen pendant in addition to natural light from a facade of windows. The bathroom features a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic with a custom white lacquer vanity and Porcelanosa tiles. The sleeping area is discreetly tucked away at the back of the loft, illuminated by a George Nelson Saucer Lamp. The project successfully created a highly functional and creatively stimulating environment. Initially conceived as an occasional getaway, the loft proved so effective that the clients found themselves spending more time there, reducing their need for frequent commuting. The design prioritized a simple, streamlined palette and carefully selected light fixtures that enhanced the spatial flow and movement within the loft, creating an urban oasis that fosters creativity and well-being. #LiveWorkLoft #CreativeSpace #GameDesignInspired #MultifunctionalFurniture #LosAngelesArchitecture #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #CustomMillwork

The article details the transformation of an unused attic space into a spacious and serene bedroom with an en-suite bathroom in an Edwardian top-floor flat in Wanstead, East London. Lily Bell, a public relations professional, and her partner Henry undertook this renovation to maximize space, particularly after Lily moved into Henry's flat during lockdown and they experienced significant space constraints, including Lily's wardrobe being stored on the landing for nine months. Henry had always intended to convert the loft, and the lockdown provided the impetus to proceed with the project. Lily, drawing inspiration from her work in interior PR, aimed for a timeless, boutique hotel aesthetic with calming, warm tones. Her partner Henry preferred a minimalist design with ample storage. The goal was to ensure a harmonious flow between the new, modern extension and the existing period character of the flat, while also creating a relaxed sanctuary for Lily, who works from home. To achieve their vision, Lily meticulously planned the design using mood boards and researching various shops, websites, magazines, and Pinterest. A rattan bed was chosen as the central piece, around which built-in wardrobes were designed to maintain an uncluttered look. Bedside tables were selected to complement the bed, and a deep russet ottoman was added to introduce a pop of color, discovered on Instagram. Considering the room's elongated shape, Lily divided it into distinct zones: a dedicated sleep area for winding down and a living area featuring an oversized armchair. An existing mid-century dresser was upcycled to prevent the overall design from appearing too modern or overly coordinated. For finishing touches, Lily incorporated vintage pieces and books collected over the years onto open shelves. She also sourced quality yet affordable hardware from Plank Hardware to enhance the wardrobes and collaborated with brands like Arley House, JYSK, and Sass & Belle for accessories. Lily highlights several favorite aspects of the new bedroom, including the bifold windows that offer beautiful views and allow abundant natural light to flood the space. She appreciates the distinct bed area for relaxation and the living space as a comfortable spot for reading. The addition of a dressing area is also noted as a practical improvement, enabling the couple to get ready without congestion. The total cost of the renovation amounted to £43,300, with £40,000 allocated to building costs, including paint, flooring, and wardrobes; £2,000 for furniture; £300 for lighting; and £1,000 for accessories such as the rug and brassware. #LoftConversion #BedroomMakeover #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #EdwardianFlat #BuiltInStorage #VintageDecor #MinimalistDesign

The homeowner, inspired by Carrie Bradshaw's wardrobe, undertook a £5000 project to convert a cluttered spare bedroom into a functional and stylish walk-in dressing room. Initially, the spare room, despite having an open rail system, was disorganized and underutilized. The transformation aimed to create a space where clothes were neatly hidden yet easily accessible. The planning phase involved extensive research on Pinterest and consultation with My Fitted Bedroom designers. The homeowner opted for Luna door fronts in a deep green 'Clover' shade, deviating from a usual neutral palette, appreciating the clean, Scandinavian aesthetic of the wardrobes. A key suggestion from the designer was the inclusion of an island unit in the center of the room, which added a touch of glamour and provided additional storage, optimizing the room's layout. The designer presented a detailed iPad-generated design, incorporating rails, drawers, and pull-out sections, which allowed for a comprehensive visualization of the final product. The fitted wardrobes were designed to utilize previously wasted areas, such as room corners, significantly increasing storage capacity. The homeowner intentionally left a small space above the wardrobes for LED strip lighting and decorative plants, adding to the room's ambiance. For flooring, the existing carpet, which easily showed makeup and hair stains, was replaced with hard flooring. A greige-colored oak laminate was chosen to seamlessly integrate with the grey flooring on the downstairs level. To introduce visual interest, a bold tropical bird wallpaper from 1838 Wallcoverings was applied to one wall. The wallpaper featured subtle green accents that harmonized with the wardrobe color. Privacy for the large window overlooking the garden was addressed with a made-to-measure blind from Scion Living in a putty shade, layered with curtains for an indulgent feel. A new wood and rattan dressing table was positioned in an alcove, providing a dedicated area for makeup application, further enhanced by a lamp for extra lighting. The entire installation of the wardrobes was completed within two days, drastically transforming the room into a glamorous and highly functional space that the homeowner expressed great satisfaction with. The article also provides practical advice for planning a dressing room, emphasizing the importance of considering whether the space will be used solely for clothes or will include a dressing table. It highlights the need to determine if the space will be shared and to define the desired aesthetic, whether glamorous or minimalist. Key considerations include maximizing space with fitted wardrobe ideas tailored to clothing storage preferences (hanging, folded, shoes, handbags, accessories) and incorporating internal fittings like pull-out shelves and hidden drawers. Proper lighting is also crucial, with recommendations for placing a dressing table near a window for natural light, using spot lighting for mirrors, and framing wardrobes with LED strips and internal spot lights for illuminated storage. #HomeRenovation #BedroomMakeover #FittedWardrobes #DressingRoom #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #RoomTransformation #HomeDecor #SpaceOptimization

Kiara Cristina Ventura, founder of PROCESSA, an art studio space and curatorial platform, has cultivated a tranquil and highly functional home within her Brooklyn studio apartment, despite its initial lack of storage. Having lived in the space since 2019 with her partner, artist Kameron Robinson, Ventura was immediately drawn to the apartment's exposed brick, dedicated studio area, cool location, and proximity to the train. However, a significant challenge emerged: the absence of closets and limited storage, with only kitchen cabinets offering any built-in space. Recognizing this constraint, Ventura and Robinson embarked on a mission to thoughtfully design their living area, prioritizing intentionality to create a peaceful and organized refuge amidst the bustling New York City environment. Ventura, a spiritual individual, imbues her design style with elements of spirituality and art. Her home features numerous candles, sage, and palo santo, reflecting her desire for a zen-like atmosphere. Maintaining a clean and organized space is paramount for her, as it allows her to feel grounded and rested. This focus on organization, coupled with the apartment's storage limitations, necessitated the selection of multifunctional furniture that could simultaneously display art and provide essential storage. The couple's solution began with two side-by-side IKEA BILLY Bookcases, arranged to form a shelf wall. These white bookcases, designed to emulate an art gallery, are meticulously styled with books, small sculptural objects, and plants. Cleverly, cameras and other electronics, typically hidden away, are openly showcased as part of the decor. Given their backgrounds in the art world, Ventura and Robinson have an extensive collection of art books, which are used not just for reading but also as decorative elements throughout their home. Further demonstrating their inventive approach to storage, an IKEA KALLAX Shelf Unit serves multiple purposes. It functions as a music station while discreetly housing miscellaneous items like mail and sunglasses in three of its four cubbies. The remaining cubby is dedicated to their visible record collection, ensuring easy access, while the top surface displays their turntable, speakers, and other decorative pieces. To address the need for storing sentimental objects without creating clutter, Ventura devised a functional gallery wall. This wall integrates three floating IKEA EKET Cabinets amidst various paintings and prints. These cabinets, filled with photos, candles, and vases, blend seamlessly with the artwork, contributing to the overall aesthetic while providing hidden storage. Ventura challenges the notion that a zen space must be devoid of color, describing her apartment as vibrant and light. The bedroom area is thoughtfully delineated from the living room by one of Robinson’s artworks – a large dyed canvas inspired by the sun, featuring warm yellow, orange, and red tones. Many other colorful pieces in the apartment are works by Latine and Black artists, a reflection of Ventura's commitment to uplifting these communities in her professional life. Beyond aesthetics, Ventura's home design draws inspiration from her Dominican-American heritage, incorporating elements influenced by her family's spirituality, such as altars with gems and crystals. These practices, observed during her upbringing, have informed her creation of a personal altar near her bedroom, symbolizing a protective and intentional space. Ventura emphasizes the importance of personalizing one’s home to create meaningful connections with one’s surroundings, making it a truly grounding and spiritual haven. #StudioApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeOrganization #IKEAHacks #ArtCurator #SpiritualDecor #MultifunctionalFurniture #BrooklynHome #InteriorDesign

Kia and Bob Barker, residents of Oak Hill, undertook a significant renovation of their master bedroom and bathroom in their 5,000-square-foot French manor-style home. The couple, parents to three young children, desired a private sanctuary to escape their demanding daily routines. Their existing master suite, characterized by a dated 1990s aesthetic, featured a heavily draped pink-and-blue bedroom with a terracotta Southwestern-style fireplace and a builder-grade bathroom with dark counters and unattractive tiles. They enlisted Oakton-based interior designer Pamela Harvey to transform the space. Harvey aimed to blend Kia's traditional preferences with Bob's more modern tastes, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable retreat. The renovation began with the bathroom, which was poorly designed, featuring a walk-in closet off the bedroom and a divided layout with a sunken tub and small shower in one section, and vanities in another. Collaborating with builder and building engineer Bob Street, Harvey reconfigured the bathroom's layout, moving the closet to the back and completely opening up the space, retaining only the enclosed WC in its original position for cost efficiency. The new bathroom layout includes a wall of double vanities and lower cabinetry, a built-in dressing table with a tall corner storage tower, a double shower, and a freestanding tub in its own niche. Bob Barker, who favored a spa-like, modern bathroom, influenced the inclusion of heated floors, dual-head rain showers, and a sculptural tub. Both Kia and Bob appreciated marble, leading Harvey to select Calcutta Gold for the floors and a laser-cut chevron wall in the shower, appreciating its warm and cool tones. To prevent the strong veining of Calcutta Gold from being overwhelming, Harvey incorporated calming Mystic White marble for countertops, shower sidewalls, and as a “pencil liner” atop the bricked Calcutta Gold wainscoting in the bathtub niche. Additional bathroom design elements include an L-shaped arrangement of vanities and a dressing table against a contemporary damask-patterned wall covering, pearl-gray cabinetry with crystal knobs and polished chrome pulls, champagne-finish framed vanity mirrors, and a subtle sky blue paint on the ceiling. Acrylic accents, such as drapery hardware, a dressing table stool, and a tub table, were used to maintain an open, airy, and light feel. For the master bedroom, Bob Barker was keen on a complete overhaul, describing the old space as “hideous” and wanting a stylish, magazine-like appearance. Harvey addressed this by replacing the old fireplace with a contemporary one featuring a seamless sheet of smooth porcelain and a floating gas-fueled firebox. The bedroom’s color palette extends the neutral tones from the bathroom, incorporating charcoal grays, chocolate taupes, and forsythia yellows, with warm gold as the metallic accent. The design achieves a sophisticated, modern elegance with traditional grounding elements, fostering a relaxed atmosphere suitable for both adults and children. Kia desired a softer, more romantic bed, leading to the selection of a charcoal gray velvet platform bed with gray piping. This was layered with crisp white bedding and numerous pillows in the room's color scheme. Bob's preference for modern design was reflected in the inclusion of leather chairs and a white lacquered desk with shagreen drawer fronts and a sculptural metallic base, serving as a functional yet artistic element in the spacious 380-square-foot room. Harvey opted for mismatched nightstands—a darker faux reptile-finish chest for Bob and a white lacquer one for Kia—to add visual interest and avoid a overly matched look, while fluted gold gourd-shaped porcelain bedside lamps and gold-framed wall mirrors provided cohesion and glamour. A beaded chandelier and an acrylic-based, tufted botanical print bench further enhanced the stylish touches. Harvey utilized a mix of fabrics, including velvet, leather, linen, and textured embroidered materials, and incorporated diverse patterns in the window treatments, which featured floor-to-ceiling textured linen panels and flat valances with embroidered floral designs, along with pull-down blackout shades. The completed master suite provides the couple with a cherished retreat, where they can relax and unwind after their children are asleep, establishing new rules to preserve the sanctity of their newly remodeled space. #MasterSuiteRemodel #InteriorDesign #OakHillRenovation #LuxuryBathroom #BedroomDesign #HomeRenovation #PamelaHarvey #MarbleDesign #FamilyHome

Sweet Laurel cofounders Laurel Gallucci and Claire Thomas embarked on a significant home renovation after Gallucci and her husband, Nick, purchased a fixer-upper. Their initial project involved transforming the old master bedroom into a combined laundry room and a master bathroom. This layout change provided them with considerably more space, addressing previous limitations such as sharing a single sink, which Gallucci noted was functional but that having two sinks was a pleasant upgrade. A unique feature of the new bathroom is the integration of an infrared sauna system directly into the sealed-off shower, complete with a spacious bench for relaxation during eucalyptus oil–scented steams. The shower's design also incorporates a sophisticated sound system, a detail Nick, a former audiophile, meticulously oversaw. Given the shower's generous size, comparable to a car interior, he enjoyed designing the acoustics to allow for loud music playback without disturbing other areas of the house. Gallucci, on the other hand, prefers calming sounds and classical tunes for her shower experience. Nick, who works as a sustainability engineer, also focused on practical amenities, including heated floors and an advanced Toto toilet. While Nick handled the technical aspects, Gallucci and Thomas concentrated on the aesthetic, particularly the color palette. Their inspiration for the floor-to-ceiling emerald green hue came from Gallucci’s appreciation for Old Hollywood and Art Deco styles. To achieve a striking monochromatic effect, every surface was covered in this shade. Dunn-Edwards’s Mission Jewel paint was used for the walls and ceilings, while Fireclay’s hexagon and herringbone tiles in Venetian Green adorned the shower interior. Thomas emphasized the importance of texture in a monochromatic room, noting that pattern is an effective way to introduce it. The combination of hexagon and herringbone tiles, including a distinct herringbone orientation on the shower stall's ceiling, was chosen for its timeless appeal and ability to add visual interest. The tile installation was a month-long process, requiring meticulous work from the tile setter. The couple, both tall, deliberately positioned the single window in the room to allow views of the sky and trees while maintaining privacy. Two oversized round mirrors were incorporated to maximize natural light within the emerald green space. Thomas explained that choosing a rich, deep color and applying it extensively can surprisingly make a room feel more expansive rather than cave-like. The chosen shade successfully achieved this desired effect, creating a vibrant and luxurious master bathroom. #BathroomRenovation #EmeraldGreen #TileDesign #HomeRenovation #MasterBathroom #InteriorDesign #MonochromaticScheme #ArtDeco

Interior designer Kassy Randazzo, who always prioritized a walk-in closet over a large bathroom, faced a unique challenge in her 1980s Mississippi home. The primary bedroom was initially a series of interconnected, undefined spaces between the sleeping area and the en suite bathroom. Randazzo speculated that these rooms might have originally served as a carport due to a glass sliding door at one end, suggesting they lacked a clear purpose in the house's original design. Her vision was to transform these two ambiguous middle spaces into a functional and aesthetically pleasing walk-in closet. Rather than undertaking a complete demolition of all existing walls, Randazzo employed a strategic approach. She chose to install new half-walls to delineate the main storage area. This creative solution served a dual purpose: it provided the necessary structure for the closet's organization and cleverly concealed her vanity area, which she admitted tends to be cluttered. This design choice ensured that the vanity's mess would not be visible from the bedroom, maintaining a tidy appearance. The shortened height of these new walls was a deliberate decision to maximize natural light and preserve the lakefront view from the windows, allowing light to permeate every corner of the redesigned space. Randazzo emphasized that the key to a successful closet renovation lies in meticulous planning and inventory. She meticulously mocked up each shelf and drawer, labeling them specifically for items like shoes or bags, to guarantee adequate and tailored storage for her belongings. This personalized approach ensured that her summer dresses had dedicated full-length hanging space, while her husband’s workout clothes had their own drawer. Randazzo also diverged from the common practice of painting everything white, opting instead for a more characterful color. She selected Farrow & Ball’s 'Pigeon,' a shade known for its chameleon-like qualities, appearing as a deep green in the morning and transforming into a cloudy gray as the sun sets. She believed that color, alongside texture, is crucial in creating a sense of coziness. For the flooring, she made an unconventional but necessary choice: ceramic floor tile. Given the unusual layout, with the closet sandwiched between a tiled primary bath and a hardwood-floored dining room, introducing a third material was deemed too visually disruptive. To mitigate the inherent chilliness of stone and integrate it seamlessly, she chose a beige herringbone pattern, mirroring the existing tile in the bathroom. This decision not only streamlined the flooring but also created a warm and inviting atmosphere, making the space appealing even to her young children, who now enjoy spending time there with her. #HomeRenovation #WalkInCloset #InteriorDesign #SpaceTransformation #DesignTips #ColorPalette #StorageSolutions #BeforeAndAfter #CustomCloset

This article details the collaborative effort behind the transformation of a formerly notorious beach lot at 11 E. Asheville Street into a modern coastal haven in Wrightsville Beach. The project was a result of the combined expertise of homebuilder Tanner Konrady of Konrady & Son Construction, Architect Eric Jabaley of Dogwood Architecture, and Lead Designer Brandy Crawford of Bridgett Mazer Interiors, all working closely with homeowners Wanda and Ron Copley. The Copleys initially purchased a property known for its past as a fraternity party house, with the intention of tearing down the existing structure and building a new home. Their decision to work with Tanner Konrady stemmed from his previous work repairing their condo after Hurricane Florence, establishing a foundation of trust. Konrady, a fourth-generation builder with extensive experience in coastal construction, emphasized the importance of durability and low maintenance in beach environments. His approach involved building with consideration for salt air, high humidity, storm exposure, and sun damage, utilizing materials like closed-cell foam insulation, sound-dampening interior walls, hurricane-rated windows, and pre-finished PVC siding and concrete-look panel systems that are designed for longevity and minimal upkeep. Konrady's team also facilitated the installation of expansive sliding doors and oversized windows to maximize ocean views and promote indoor-outdoor living, requiring careful structural planning. The architectural vision, led by Eric Jabaley, focused on creating a modern yet coastal-inspired home that blended with the local aesthetic while capturing ocean views. Jabaley worked to incorporate Wanda Copley's sophisticated vision, which desired a modern design rooted in the Wrightsville Beach vernacular. A key design element is the top-floor main living area, which extends onto a spacious wraparound porch through large sliding doors, effectively creating an additional outdoor room for relaxation and entertaining. This seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces allows residents to fully experience the coastal environment. Brandy Crawford, the lead designer, guided the interior aesthetic toward a "coastal modern" style, incorporating light, clean lines, and a less fussy approach. Wanda Copley's bold sense of style and love for color, particularly pink, were central to the interior design. This is most notably expressed in "The Pink Room," an office that doubles as a guest suite, featuring a hot pink sleeper sofa, ottomans, acrylic chairs, and pink cabinetry. Other design highlights include a powder bath with a floating, backlit vanity, and a wall-mounted resin art installation by Alex Turco in the second-level sitting room, referred to as "living glass." The home also includes an independent downstairs suite for the Copleys' daughter, complete with a kitchenette, en suite, and private porch, designed for independent living. The success of the project is attributed to the strong synergy and communication among the homeowner, builder, architect, and designer. The team's collaborative approach and shared commitment to the client's vision resulted in a custom-crafted home that reflects a unique lifestyle and personality. The project serves as an example of how a unified team can transform a challenging property into a beautiful and functional coastal residence, built to withstand environmental elements while exuding modern elegance. #CoastalRetreat #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #WrightsvilleBeach #Architect #CoastalConstruction #Homebuilder #ModernHome #Innovation

Sacha and Troy Strebe, an editorial director and a denim designer, faced a significant storage challenge when they purchased their first home in Altadena, California. Despite their extensive clothing collection, particularly vintage denim, the house's primary bedroom closet measured a mere 5-by-4 feet. This article details their innovative renovation journey to transform a portion of their unusually long and narrow 21-by-10-foot bedroom into a functional and aesthetically pleasing walk-in closet, overcoming the initial lack of built-in storage. The renovation began with Troy's idea to partition the bedroom's end with a new wall and archway, effectively creating a dedicated dressing room. A local contractor executed this vision, constructing the wood framing, adding drywall, and skim-coating the structure with plaster. The project also involved installing a second ceiling inside the new closet space and a new light switch. Remarkably, the structural changes were completed in just seven days. Following the construction, Sacha personally painted the newly created space using "Morning Ritual by Backdrop," after several coats of primer were applied to cover a previously painted green stripe. To maximize the storage capacity within the newly formed 163-square-foot closet, the couple enlisted the expertise of Sabina Loos from California Closets. Loos designed a custom U-shaped cabinetry system to fit the longest part of the closet, complemented by two additional closed cupboards opposite the archway. This strategic layout ensures that every available inch is utilized for clothing storage, while still providing approximately 25 inches of walking clearance, allowing comfortable movement for one person. Troy's denim collection was specifically accommodated with a hanging rod using patternmaker's hooks, a design he had previously developed, allowing easy access and visibility of his pants. Addressing practical concerns, the couple installed UV 1% roller shades and wool flannel flat roman shades from the Shade Store to protect their garments from sun exposure, which can cause fading. This layered window treatment allows them to control natural light, letting it in when desired for dressing and blocking it out to preserve their clothes. Prior to moving in, Sacha and Troy undertook a significant decluttering process, including a large garage sale and donations to Goodwill, to minimize their belongings. This habit of conscious consumption has continued, with Sacha prioritizing vintage or unique items and frequenting resale sites and thrift stores. Finally, Sacha created a personal "dress-up" nook within the closet, featuring an EQ3 mirror, mixed-media art, a candle, and various decorative objects. This space serves not only as a functional area for trying on outfits but also as an inspiring corner that encourages her to rediscover and re-style pieces from her archive, fostering a more creative approach to her wardrobe. The overall project exemplifies how thoughtful design and strategic planning can transform a challenging space into a highly personalized and efficient storage solution, enhancing daily routines and personal style. #HomeRenovation #ClosetDesign #SmallSpaceSolutions #CustomStorage #BedroomTransformation #DIYRenovation #FashionStorage #InteriorDesign #Decluttering

Parisian architecture firm f+f architectes has completed the conversion of a former attic space in an Art Nouveau building in Strasbourg, France, into a contemporary and luminous two-storey, four-bedroom apartment. The renovation project involved the fourth and fifth floors of the building, which were previously used as maid rooms. The newly designed apartment spans 240 square meters, offering a modern living space within a historic context. The apartment's layout is split across two levels. The lower level is primarily dedicated to private spaces, featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a home office. Access to this level is through a double-height entrance hall, which is illuminated by a skylight, creating an immediate sense of openness and brightness upon entry. The upper level, in contrast, hosts the communal living areas, including an open-plan living room, a dining area, and a kitchen. This arrangement allows for a clear separation between private and public functions, catering to modern lifestyle needs. A key material choice in the renovation is black dyed MDF, which f+f architectes used extensively throughout the apartment. This material is integrated into various architectural elements, such as storage units and wall coverings, as well as custom-designed furniture, including the dining table. The selection of black dyed MDF is notable for its consistent color throughout its mass, which makes it less susceptible to visible chipping compared to stained or lacquered wood, ensuring durability and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. This material was also utilized for the stairs, creating a cohesive design language. To provide a visual contrast to the dark MDF, the stair banister is constructed from clear, laminated glass. This design choice contributes to the apartment's light and open feel, allowing natural light to penetrate through the structure while providing safety. The original pinewood flooring of the building was retained and updated. It was treated with lye, a substance that helps preserve the wood's natural light shade and prevents it from yellowing over time, ensuring the historical character of the flooring is maintained while integrating with the contemporary design elements. The structural elements of the attic, specifically the trusses, were left exposed, adding an industrial and raw aesthetic to the interior. Additionally, new metal I-beams were incorporated to open up the lower-floor plan and to support the terrace structure. Modifications were made to the roof's truss work to accommodate the new terrace and a new opening was created in the top floor for the stairs, demonstrating a careful balance between preserving existing structures and implementing necessary alterations for the new layout. The kitchen features a marble ceramic island, complementing the natural wood and black MDF, and is situated beneath the original beams. The bathrooms maintain the minimalist design with black MDF cupboards and marble wall and floor tiles, continuing the refined material palette. Two terraces, one of which is carved into the roof, are accessible from the upper floor and offer views of the surrounding park. The architects noted the asymmetrical pitch of the roof, which is steeper towards the street, likely to give the building a more imposing facade facing a large square. This project exemplifies how historic attic spaces can be transformed into functional, bright, and aesthetically cohesive modern apartments while respecting and highlighting the building's original features. #Lofts #Interiors #ResidentialArchitecture #Apartments #France #Strasbourg #AtticConversion

The article details the transformation of a standard storage space into a sophisticated master closet, located in Loft 13B at the historic One Hundred Barclay in downtown Manhattan. The project was a collaboration between Domino and NYC-based interior designer Bennett Leifer for a model unit redesign. Carolyn Musher, a design consultant from California Closets, led the closet's revitalization. Musher recounts the closet's original state as a typical New York City closet, featuring only a single shelf and a pole, failing to maximize its potential. The redesign aimed to create a 'wow' moment upon entering the master suite, ultimately achieving an ultimate dressing room status. The revamped closet now boasts a built-in vanity, ample hanging space, and generous shelving. A key aspect of the redesign was making the closet an extension of the master bedroom, rather than just a storage area. Musher integrated a vanity to provide a designated space for getting ready, which elevates the area to a dressing room. This addition makes the space more inviting and functional, allowing for makeup application and jewelry selection within the closet. When left open, the closet appears more like a piece of furniture than a mere clothing repository. The design process emphasized understanding the user's specific wardrobe needs. Musher highlights that a closet should be tailored to individual dressing and buying habits, whether that involves numerous black shirts or many pairs of sneakers. For Loft 13B, she incorporated diverse storage solutions for various items, including long-hanging clothes (dresses, coats), short-hanging items, shoes, and seasonal wear. A significant improvement was achieved through 'overhanging,' which involved utilizing the full floor-to-ceiling height of the closet to nearly triple the hanging space, moving beyond conventional, limited shelf-and-pole setups. Maintaining an organized closet is another crucial piece of advice provided. Musher advocates for regular wardrobe editing, suggesting an annual 'closet cleanse.' This process involves removing everything from the closet, cleaning the space, and then selectively returning items, prompting a review of whether each item has been worn in the past year or still fits. This 'closet therapy' helps to ensure a clutter-free and functional dressing area. Finally, Musher recommends the installation of a garment rod, also known as a valet rod, regardless of the closet size. This extendable tool, which can be easily mounted inside a shelf, allows clothes to be faced outwards, simplifying outfit planning and keeping track of hangers. It serves as a practical staging area for daily outfits or packing for trips, proving to be a small yet impactful addition for enhanced organization and convenience. #MasterCloset #ClosetOrganization #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #WardrobeManagement #RenovationTips #DressingRoom