Villa Léandre: An English-Inspired Art-Deco Street in Montmartre

This article explores a Parisian pied-à-terre, designed by Champeau & Wilde, for a young couple seeking a blend of classical and modern aesthetics. Located on the Quai Voltaire, across from the Louvre, the apartment captures the essence of 19th-century Parisian style while incorporating contemporary elements. The interior design studio, Champeau & Wilde, led by Laurent Champeau and Kelli Wilde, is known for its ability to infuse French sophistication into their projects, balancing historical references with modern sensibilities to create harmonious and livable spaces. Their approach involves a subtle alliance of contemporary and classical elements, tailored to clients' desires. The clients' vision for their 1,500 sq ft apartment in Saint-Germain-des-Prés was to evoke a 19th-century feel while ensuring it reflected their personal style and the romance of Paris. The original three-bedroom layout was reconfigured into two bedrooms, featuring an adjoining walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom, optimizing the use of space. The design incorporates quintessential French architectural details, such as crown mouldings and overdoors, which are then given a modern twist through the integration of contemporary art, like abstract collages by Francis Montanier, and modern furniture pieces, such as a zebra-print bench. Champeau & Wilde's signature style is characterized by this interlacing of bold patterns, diverse textures, and contemporary forms with traditional elements. They excel at combining bespoke and vintage furnishings to achieve individuality, emphasizing that schemes that are too uniform lose interest. A key aspect of their design philosophy is the strategic use of color and texture, often featuring splashes of bold hues against neutral, soft backgrounds. For instance, in the living room, a leopard-print rug and a blue sofa provide striking accents against off-white walls, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. The kitchen maintains a casual yet classical appeal through its neutral palette, while the bedroom also predominantly features neutral tones to foster a calming atmosphere. The master bathroom highlights the designers' strengths in functionality and aesthetic appeal, featuring a his-and-hers sink layout with ample storage. The collaboration between Laurent Champeau, whose style is described as more rigorous and classically French, and Kelli Wilde, who brings a freer and more playful touch, is pivotal to their success. This partnership allows them to deliver comprehensively designed projects that resonate with their clients' aspirations while maintaining their distinctive design ethos. The article showcases how Champeau & Wilde successfully married the past with the present in this Parisian pied-à-terre, creating a space that is both timeless and uniquely personal. #InteriorDesign #HouseTour #ParisianApartment #ClassicalModern #ChampeauWilde #FrenchInterior #HomeDecor #Design

Interior designer David Jimenez, a New York City native who moved to Paris six years ago, shares his experience finding and decorating an expansive eight-room private apartment in a centuries-old manor house in France’s Oise department. Jimenez sought a country retreat for weekend getaways that was within an hour of Paris, featured handsome architecture, and was surrounded by private grounds, fields, and forests. After a two-year search, he discovered his dream home near the charming village of Saintines, an hour north of Paris and 30 minutes from Chantilly, nestled in a region rich with history and natural beauty, including the medieval Compiègne forest. The apartment, located on the second floor of the manor, possesses graceful symmetry and parquet floors, with rooms flowing elegantly into one another in an enfilade style. Jimenez enhanced this natural flow by painting the entire apartment in a warm off-white, or blanc cassé. His design inspiration came from classic French decorators like Henri Samuel, whose work on versatile and elegant rooms he studied to achieve a similar aesthetic in his own home. He aimed to create spaces that were comfortable yet deeply connected to the beauty of the French countryside and its joie de vivre. Jimenez immersed himself in the local art and culinary scenes, discovering antique dealers, art galleries, and farmers’ markets in nearby villages such as Verberie and Pierrefonds. He describes finding unique pieces like bronze chandeliers, beveled mirrors from an estate sale, and a draper table with cobalt blue leather chairs from a shop at the foot of Château de Pierrefonds. These encounters often led to strong friendships with local shop owners and artisans, who in turn connected him with skilled craftspeople—from upholsterers and curtain makers to electricians and gilders. The apartment's design fosters a convivial atmosphere, particularly in the salon. Jimenez strategically placed a ticking-upholstered recamier in the center of the room, facing the fireplace, preferring it over chairs that would obstruct the view. He also added numerous stools to provide flexible cocktail seating. Louis XVI-style chairs near a tapestry offer a strong presence and can be easily incorporated into any conversation group. From the salon’s tall windows, Jimenez enjoys views of apple orchards and fern-filled glades, along with the sounds of horses from the château grounds and a symphony of birds. This natural setting provides him with a profound sense of calm, joy, and well-being. More of Jimenez’s projects are featured in his book, 'Parisian by Design'. #DavidJimenez #FrenchCountryside #ManorHouse #InteriorDesign #FrenchDecor #Antiques #ChâteauLiving #HomeDecor #VerandaMagazine

This article highlights an East London apartment, located within Martha's Buildings off Old Street, which has undergone a rehabilitation by architect Julie Richards. The two-bedroom property, currently listed for £1.25m with The Modern House, was featured on Channel 4's 'Britain's Best Home' due to its sophisticated design that optimizes light, height, and views of a leafy courtyard. The apartment is characterized by an industrial aesthetic softened with calm and elegant touches. A key design element is the integration of recessed lighting in the ceiling, walls, and epoxy resin floors, which not only enhances the overall illumination but also creates clear sightlines throughout the space. The kitchen embodies an industrial style, featuring stainless steel and glass finishes. It includes uplighting along the rear wall and custom-built lighting within a glass island. A notable appliance is the original Renzo Piano Smeg hob and matching extractor. Adjacent to the kitchen, an office nook is discreetly integrated into the layout. The living area is distinguished by a sunken lounge, accessible via a concrete staircase. This space is furnished with built-in modular units and features timber floors, adding warmth and texture. A wall of sliding glass doors provides direct access to an interior balcony, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. At the rear of the apartment are two en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with built-in storage. A modular doorway system offers flexibility in arranging the bedroom layouts. The main en-suite bathroom is particularly luxurious, featuring a shower, a large freestanding bath, and sanitary ware by Starck 1. The apartment's location is ideal for urban professionals, offering a highly walkable neighborhood. The area provides easy access to markets, diverse restaurants, shops, theatres, and live music venues. Furthermore, a Tube station is conveniently located steps away, ensuring excellent connectivity to the wider London area, including the Thames. #EastLondonProperty #IndustrialDesign #ApartmentLiving #JulieRichardsArchitecture #ArtDeco #ModernHouse #LondonRealEstate

This article details the refurbishment of a five-bedroom Victorian home in Shepherd’s Bush, West London, by architect McLaren.Excell. The property, spanning four levels, maintains a traditional facade from the front, akin to other bay-windowed Victorians on its street. However, the rear reveals a distinctive and modern transformation. A key feature of the renovation is the bold, weathered Corten-steel-clad extension, which seamlessly integrates with interlocking concrete panels in the garden. McLaren.Excell’s design approach skillfully juxtaposes the robust, 'monolithic' qualities of concrete and Corten steel with the original 19th-century brickwork of the house. Complementing these strong materials, softer natural elements like Grey Elm and Douglas Fir are incorporated into the new loft extension, creating a deliberate contrast. The interior design fosters a continuous interplay between the old and the new, blending period features with modern interventions. In the living room, the original Victorian fireplace is preserved, flanked by alcoves thoughtfully lined with bookshelves. New parquet flooring extends into an adjacent, cozy second lounge, which also features floor-to-ceiling library shelves. This flooring leads into the newly constructed kitchen extension, which is clad in rusted steel, reflecting the industrial aesthetic seen from the exterior. The kitchen's central element is a monumental concrete island, designed with a stepped surface that transitions from a food preparation area to a dining table, accompanied by matching concrete benches. To introduce warmth into the space, bespoke timber cabinetry is used. The kitchen’s design also incorporates exposed rafters and a skylight, which collectively enhance the room’s verticality and natural light. Steel-framed glass doors provide access to the garden, where a complementary concrete bench is situated on large concrete slabs, bordered by Corten steel planters filled with native flora. While the downstairs areas are characterized by rugged materials and a patinated finish, the upstairs rooms adopt a more vibrant and lighthearted aesthetic. The main bedroom is decorated in a cheerful yellow hue, with bold accents provided by intricately patterned wardrobes and a fiery orange mantelpiece. The children’s bedrooms, though more subdued, feature soft pastel tones, contributing to a lively and colorful ambiance within the private quarters. A sense of calm is restored in the loft suite, where a palette of pale wood, white walls, and patinated brickwork establishes a serene and tranquil environment, with windows offering peaceful views of the garden, sky, and trees. The West London home is currently listed for sale with The Modern House at £1.75 million. #VictorianArchitecture #WestLondonProperty #McLarenExcell #CortenSteel #ConcreteDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #HomeInterior #ShepherdsBush #ModernHouse

Madrid is a vibrant city renowned for its rich architectural history, spanning from the Habsburg Empire through the Baroque and 20th-century modernist periods. This article highlights five properties currently available for sale in Madrid, each embodying a blend of historical context and contemporary design, infused with Spanish flair. One featured property is a 1920s Salamanca apartment located on the fourth floor of a building erected during Miguel Primo de Rivera's dictatorship. This Golden Mile apartment reflects the architectural style of a period when Spain was becoming increasingly conservative, leading to a flourishing creative counter-scene. It retains numerous original details, such as mouldings and stained glass, harmoniously integrated with modern additions like a glass-framed study. The apartment, offering three bedrooms, is listed for €1.9 million via The Sibarist. Another distinctive property is an Art Deco riad situated in The Press Colony. This architectural gem, built in 1945, was part of a modernist enclave designed by architect Felipe Mario López Blanco for journalists. The four-bedroom home showcases a unique blend of Arabic and modernist motifs. Its striking patterned facade and features like its stained glass windows have received heritage protection. The property underwent a sensitive renovation three years prior and offers a roof terrace and a garden with mature 100-year-old cedars, oleanders, and magnolias. It is available for £1.3 million via The Singular Space. A light-filled Retiro penthouse offers unparalleled views of Madrid's Retiro neighborhood and park. Located on the eighth floor of a 1960s modernist building, this three-bedroom penthouse is characterized by pale wood panelling, whitewashed walls, and abundant natural light streaming through skylights set in six-meter-high ceilings. A spiral staircase connects its two levels, with bedrooms also enjoying city views. This property is priced at €2.7 million through The Sibarist. The Gilded Age Conde Orgaz villa provides expansive living spaces, including an outdoor swimming pool and a vast 100-sq-m living room. This five-bedroom historic property features rich interiors with wood panelling and parquet flooring, complemented by red marble fireplaces. It also includes a basement level with a cellar, gym, and office, offering potential for further customization. The villa is listed for €3.7 million via Berkshire Hathaway Global. Finally, a Justicia industrial penthouse showcases a modern, minimalist aesthetic following a recent total renovation. Full-height steel-frame windows ensure the two-bedroom apartment is consistently flooded with light. White floorboards extend to a 40-meter terrace, providing views of the neoclassical buildings of Justicia. A long, narrow hallway leads to the two bedrooms, each with an ensuite. This renovated penthouse is available for €2.3 million via The Sibarist. #MadridProperty #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #SpanishArchitecture #ApartmentForSale #Penthouse #Villa #ArtDeco #ModernistDesign

An economist with a keen interest in literature and Art Deco commissioned De la Villa Studio, a Madrid-based firm comprising architects Miguel Otero and Juan Esteve, along with interior designer Alberto Mirror, for a complete renovation of their 1,450-square-foot residence in central Madrid. The client sought to integrate their inspirations into their living space through architectural detailing and new furnishings. De la Villa Studio approached the project with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating numerous custom elements throughout the apartment. A central feature of the renovation was the library, which was designed to house the client's extensive book collection. Varnished oak shelving with leather-upholstered lower cabinets provided storage, while an aged, mirrored ceiling was installed to enhance the room's sense of spaciousness and brightness. The library also includes a reading nook furnished with an Eames lounge chair, a 265 wall lamp by Paolo Rizzatto for Flos, and a painting by Sabine Finkenauer. This versatile space doubles as a dining area, featuring oak dining chairs and gazelle leather-upholstered seats, illuminated by natural light from a balcony. Custom design elements are prevalent throughout the residence, crafted from materials such as stone, linen, and wood. The firm designed geometric flooring for the entry, bathroom, and kitchen, ensuring it harmonized with the overall aesthetic. Many furniture pieces were also custom-made, including the living room's bronze-smoked glass coffee tables with honed travertine. Specific design details pay homage to the Art Deco style, such as the arched bronze-and-glass doors in the bathroom and custom-designed oak sliding doors in the bedroom. Despite the extensive renovation, De la Villa Studio preserved the apartment's original architectural features, including its high ceilings and balconies. Located just steps from the bustling Gran Vía street, the residence has been transformed into a tranquil and inspiring sanctuary. The living room features a vintage B&B Italia sofa by Mario Bellini, complemented by Patricia Urquiola armchairs for Cassina. The entryway showcases a painting by Aythamy Armas alongside a black-stained oak console. The kitchen is equipped with bar stools by Leon Ransmeier for Hay, positioned at a stone island, while the dining area features oak chairs upholstered in gazelle leather surrounding a bronze-tinted smoked glass table designed by De la Villa Studio. These carefully curated elements combine to create a residence brimming with flair and Art Deco elegance. #MadridResidence #ArtDecoDesign #DeLaVillaStudio #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CustomFurnishings #ArchitecturalDetailing #LuxuryInteriors

Alma-nac, a London-based architecture firm, undertook the renovation of Basing Street Rooms, a four-storey Victorian end-terrace house, transforming it into a long-stay hotel comprising guest suites for a record label. The design drew inspiration from the history of the recording studio across the street, abstracting elements from four specific record labels: Island Records, Stiff Records, ZTT, and Sarm. Instead of creating a direct archive, the architects aimed to distill the identity of each label into an abstract visual language, reinterpreting it within the context of the building's history and the functional requirements of the apartments. This approach resulted in a series of unique spaces, each associated with a particular label, while maintaining a common design thread throughout the hotel. Each of the four apartments, situated on separate floors, features a distinct colour theme influenced by record sleeve designs from the nearby studio's archive. All apartments share a similar layout, incorporating a combined living room and kitchen, a spacious bedroom, and a compact bathroom. Extensive rebuilding was necessitated by damage sustained during the Second World War, including the installation of a central plywood staircase, assembled off-site, on the ground floor. The lower-ground floor apartment is adorned with a navy, pale blue, and orange theme. The apartment on the floor above showcases herringbone patterns in shades of yellow, orange, and red in the hallway, extending through the front door. The kitchen in this unit features white cabinetry with red accents, and the wooden cupboards in the bedroom have bright orange-painted interiors. The orange and red herringbone pattern from the floor continues up the wall, encompassing the window seat. A red painted staircase leads to the first floor, with white lettering on each riser gradually spelling out song lyrics from top to bottom. A lighting installation consisting of clear glass bulbs suspended on red electrical cords hangs above this staircase. The first-floor apartment is characterized by shades of pink and red, featuring a glossy black kitchen unit, a dark chandelier, and a pink neon lighting installation on the living room wall. The top floor is decorated with a vibrant palette of bright yellow, white, blue, green, and pink. This apartment includes a yellow kitchen unit in the living space and a yellow lightning bolt tiled into the bathroom's shower wall. Externally, the building's brick frontage is painted blue with a red door and coloured window frames. A large mural on the external side wall depicts various artists who have recorded at the adjacent studio. The project utilized engineered parquet flooring, stained and arranged in detailed plans to define key activity areas within each apartment. Identifiable symbols and words from the record labels were abstracted and integrated into the design; for instance, the Stiff 'S' was reinterpreted as a pixelated lightning bolt, and the multiple misspellings of 'zang tumb tumb' formed a scrabble-board-like tile pattern in a bathroom. Alma-nac collaborated closely with the client and artists, incorporating a mural on the building's side and artwork directly onto internal walls, further embedding the studio's spirit into the hotel. The project successfully combined the building's historical context with a vibrant, music-inspired aesthetic, creating a unique and functional living space for visiting musicians. #ApartmentRenovation #LondonInteriors #HerringbonePatterns #ColourfulDesign #VictorianArchitecture #MusicInspiredDesign #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #AlmaNac

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

French design firm Le Berre Vevaud, comprising Raphaël Le Berre and Thomas Vevaud, undertook the transformation of a three-floor hôtel particulier in Paris’s 16th arrondissement into a functional and luxurious family home. The project aimed to integrate the art of living with comfort for an art-collecting couple and their two children. The initial impression of the property revealed grand volumes and abundant natural light, necessitating extensive redesign. The designers focused on the first-floor living area, dining room, and kitchen, creating an open-plan layout to maximize natural light. To address the six-meter-high ceilings, a mezzanine level was constructed. This elevated platform now serves as an office overlooking the dining room and offers a view of an olive tree. This intervention cleverly utilized vertical space while maintaining the flow and original decadent character of the property. Adjacent walls were opened to create a larger lateral room, framing views between the living and dining areas. The dining room features a cloudy gold leaf canvas by Anne Féat Gaiss, a black round-legged Olbia cabinet from Le Berre Vevaud’s own furniture collection, minimal Sophie S’Assoit chairs from Maison Dada, and a custom marble table beneath a vintage 1950s eight-arm chandelier. The living room showcases mural artwork by Martin Berger, black wood sculptures by Charles Kalpakian, Ignazio Gardella armchairs, and a cantilevered bronze coffee table by Yann Dessauvage. A carved screen in cut-out brushed oak veneer was added to partition the sitting area from the entranceway elevator, which connects to street level. The design draws inspiration from a combination of materials and textures, spanning the Art Deco period to the bold colors and forms of the Memphis movement. Le Berre Vevaud's expertise extended beyond architectural ingenuity to interpreting the couple's extensive art collection within a domestic context. In the entranceway, a 17th-century portrait by Hans Hansen Rasch is casually displayed above a custom Belize bronze console. A bedroom features a Sophie Calle photograph and a pink and gold patterned de Gournay screen by David/Nicolas, alongside a custom-designed bed, presented in an unassuming manner. The home not only provides a backdrop for a diverse art collection—including modern and contemporary sculptures, photographs, paintings, and classical pieces—but also incorporates a 1,000-square-foot spa. Le Berre and Vevaud repurposed part of the ground floor courtyard for this zen-like space. The staircase leading to the spa features dark materials and waxed concrete to create a subdued atmosphere and mimic natural stone textures. Under a gridded skylight, a raised platform houses a circular Jacuzzi. Opposite, a shower room and hammam sauna are adorned with minuscule mosaic tiles designed in collaboration with Beton Blanché, aiming to transport the owners into a tranquil environment within their home. #ParisianHome #HôtelParticulier #LeBerreVevaud #LuxuryDesign #ArtCollectorsHome #SpaDesign #InteriorArchitecture #FrenchDesign #Mezzanine #ArtIntegration

Donna Ida Thornton, known as the 'Jean Queen' for her denim fashion brand, and her husband, restaurateur Robert Walton MBE, have undertaken an extensive 18-month renovation of Langdon Court, a Grade II* Listed Jacobean manor house located in Wembury, South Devon. The couple acquired the 16th-century property during lockdown and initiated restoration efforts in early 2022. Langdon Court, which previously functioned as a hotel, was in a state of disrepair, suffering from significant neglect, including water ingress due to stolen lead from the roof and general dilapidation. The renovation project is described as a 'mammoth undertaking' by Donna, yet she expresses satisfaction with the process. Their vision for Langdon Court extends beyond a private residence; they intend to transform it into an exclusive venue for events such as weddings, birthdays, and as a filming location, allowing wider access to the historic property. Donna emphasizes the importance of nurturing and preserving the house, aiming to maintain its legacy for centuries. Prior to this project, Donna had successfully transformed a Berkshire pub into a home, showcasing her growing interest and aptitude for interior design. Her background in design, stemming from a childhood passion for crafting miniature items, informed her approach to the structural and aesthetic aspects of the manor's restoration. The renovation involved collaboration with a team of local tradespeople, including BBK Builders, Devon Carpenters, BLKC Decorators, Uni-Lec, and Titan Mechanical. Donna highlights the high quality of craftsmanship employed, noting the discovery of 19th-century tradesmen's etchings within the building. Despite the challenges presented by the age and complexity of the over 500-year-old structure, the restoration team has been instrumental in revitalizing the property. For the interior design, Donna collaborated with Geraldine Apponyi, an interior designer known for her 'cosy English with a European influenced-design feel.' The aesthetic goal was to create a comfortable, modern environment that respects the house's historical character, avoiding an overtly traditional English country house look. Furnishings and decor were sourced from various places, including eBay, sample sales, and local antique shops in Ashburton. Practical and unique additions include a set of 'dog stables' for her five chihuahuas, accommodating their needs within the expansive property. Original architectural features, such as fireplaces, panelling, and stained-glass windows, have been preserved and complemented by contemporary design elements. British-based companies were prioritized for new installations, including Corston Architectural Detail hardware, Perrin and Rowe taps, and Shaws of Darwen sinks. The kitchen, a central feature, was custom-designed and built by Cornwall-based Williams and Son, with Italian Bertazzoni appliances chosen for their quality. Upon completion, the couple will reside in a private first-floor apartment within the house, while guests renting the property will have unrestricted access to most areas, including historically 'back-of-house' spaces like the chef’s snug and pantry, which Donna views as integral to the building's charm. The project, estimated to have cost several million pounds, is viewed by Donna as a long-term investment rather than a finite undertaking, acknowledging that an ancient building will always require maintenance. The official launch is scheduled for next month, with B&B; rooms available in June for a soft launch, and the entire house available for private bookings from July. The renovation of Langdon Court represents a blend of historical preservation, interior design, and a vision for shared experiential hospitality. #LangdonCourt #ManorHouseRestoration #JacobeanArchitecture #Devon #HistoricProperty #InteriorDesign #LuxuryVenue #DonnaIdaThornton #RobertWalton

The Gilded Age, spanning the last quarter of the 19th century in the US, was a period marked by significant economic growth, industrial expansion, and a stark increase in wealth inequality. This era saw the rise of incredibly affluent families, often referred to as the top 1% of earners, who amassed vast fortunes from industries such as railroads, shipping, and banking. These newly wealthy elites, exemplified by families like the Vanderbilts, sought to display their prosperity through the construction of extravagant residences and the hosting of elaborate social events. The Vanderbilt family, for instance, owned numerous mansions, including ten (now demolished) on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue and the still-standing Châteauesque-style Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Gilded Age mansions are architectural embodiments of the era's opulence, often drawing inspiration from, and even surpassing the grandeur of, French chateaux and Italian villas. This article showcases nine such historic homes currently available for purchase across the United States, each offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of 19th-century American society at varying scales. These properties include a Beaux-Arts Manhattan townhouse, built in 1901 by Horgan and Slattery, featuring a Venetian Renaissance-influenced terracotta façade, oak wainscoting, pocket doors, and dramatic windows. Another property is an architect’s Italianate villa in Newport, Rhode Island, designed and built by Samuel Powel in the 1850s, which boasts a colonnaded veranda, lunettes above windows, and parkland grounds. Also highlighted is Emily Thorn Vanderbilt’s former summer residence in Massachusetts, an 1886 red-roofed, shingle-style country estate set on 89 acres in the Berkshires. This expansive property, known as renovated Elm Court, features over 65 rooms, including a stately ballroom, and grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. A Park Avenue duplex in Manhattan, built by Beaux-Arts architect Stanford White, is presented with its grand salon, diamond-patterned oak-beamed ceiling, and a wooden staircase leading to a library mezzanine. A clapboard Italianate house in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill Historic District, dating back to the 1860s, is noted for its grand portico, sunlit parlor, restored mouldings, and a ‘secret garden’. Further examples include an 1885 Kansas red brick home with a deep veranda, tall windows, and a decadent wood-lined interior featuring a grand staircase and coffered ceiling. A white stucco Denver mansion, designed by Fisher & Fisher in 1904, showcases wrought-iron gates, crafted woodwork, and modern amenities like a retrofitted elevator, chef’s kitchen, and home cinema. A colourful, wood-lined mansion in Saint Paul, Minnesota, built in 1886, is distinguished by its vibrant green and orange exterior, natural and varnished woodwork, and a working pipe organ. Finally, a Detroit apartment located in the converted 1882 Frederick Butler House, drawing on French Renaissance Second Empire style, offers a gut-renovated condo that maintains its historic ambience with arched double doors, tall windows, and a marble and iron fireplace. #GildedAge #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #BeauxArts #ItalianateVilla #Mansion #PropertyForSale #USArchitecture

This article details a renovation project by London-based firm LLI Design, focusing on a Victorian townhouse in North London. The project aimed to infuse modern style while restoring period-appropriate elements that had been stripped away in previous renovations. The primary focus of the redesign was a windowed kitchen extension that fully opens to the garden, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The previous state of the Victorian townhouse lacked its original character, as earlier renovations had removed many historical details. LLI Design meticulously reintroduced these elements, starting with the front fanlight window, which was adorned with stained glass. The entry hall received vintage black and white tiles, re-establishing a sense of historical authenticity right from the entrance of the home. These subtle yet significant changes contributed to restoring the townhouse's original charm and aesthetic. Inside, the living room also underwent significant transformations. Outdated cabinetry was replaced with custom-built shelving units, carefully designed to flank the fireplace, providing both functionality and a refreshed aesthetic. The old mantle was removed and replaced with a more traditional marble fireplace surround, further enhancing the room's classic appeal. The flooring throughout the living spaces was updated with light herringbone-patterned floors, which successfully blended historical charm with a contemporary feel, bridging the gap between the home's past and present. The kitchen, however, stands out as the centerpiece of this renovation. It was completely revamped with new pale gray cabinets that offer a sleek and modern look, complemented by crisp white countertops. The most striking feature of the kitchen is its entire rear wall, which is composed of large-paned windows framed in dark gray aluminum. These windows are designed to open completely, transforming the kitchen and dining area into an open-air space that directly connects to the garden. This innovative design allows for an abundance of natural light and ventilation, creating a bright, airy, and inviting atmosphere that blurs the lines between the interior and exterior environments. This renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance historical properties. By carefully reintroducing period details while integrating contemporary design elements, LLI Design successfully transformed the Victorian townhouse into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The emphasis on opening the interior spaces to the garden not only enhances the living experience but also creates a unique connection to the outdoors, making the home more adaptable to modern lifestyles while preserving its inherent character. #VictorianTownhouse #HomeRenovation #LondonArchitecture #InteriorDesign #KitchenExtension #GardenConnection #LLIDesign #ModernStyle #PeriodDetails

In 2019, a sprawling stucco house in Brentwood, Los Angeles, known as one of Dean Martin's former residences, changed ownership. Beyond its celebrity connection, the property holds significant architectural value as one of architect Clifford May’s early designs, instrumental in popularizing indoor/outdoor living. May, considered the progenitor of the ranch house style, constructed the 3,256-square-foot dwelling on spec in the mid-1930s, directly across from his own home. The house's U-shape design ensures that every room orients towards a central courtyard, which originally included a lily pond. While the home retained its original plaster walls, wood plank ceilings, rustic beams, and low-pitched, clay tile roof, previous remodels had introduced elements that deviated from the original architectural intent. The current owners enlisted designer Mallory Kaye to rejuvenate the residence. Kaye's initial step involved removing extraneous details to highlight May's original vision, subsequently refining the space to align with her clients' preferences. Eschewing the home's inherent Spanish aesthetic, the owners desired a bright and airy environment. Kaye notes that their priority was "sophisticated finishes paired with functionality that would withstand the wear and tear of young children," resulting in a blend of comfort and elegance. The design incorporates soft curves in furniture and decor, antique pieces, brass finishes, and marble accents, which Kaye describes as "hacienda French femme." This style represents a thoughtful integration of various eras, origins, and personalities, tailored to the clients' lifestyle while respecting the existing architecture. Key areas of the home underwent significant transformations. In the kitchen, Kaye designed a custom adobe-style plaster hood, drawing inspiration from the house's architecture, complemented by a skylight that bathes the room in natural light. The bar area features a grid of wine cubbies flanked by closed storage, designed by Kaye, with fluted plaster walls by Kamp Studios. Throughout the house, antique brass light switch covers from Forbes and Lomax add a warm patina. The library, doubling as a game room or lounge area, features a custom bookshelf crafted from the same oak as the floors in other rooms, visually connecting the spaces. This room, situated adjacent to the bar and kitchen, is ideal for entertaining. Kaye appreciated the display of books, personal photos, and travel memorabilia, which offered a glimpse into the owners' lives. The powder room showcases a mural by artist James Mobley, echoing the home’s original landscape, and a vintage table transformed into a vanity. The primary bedroom's palette was inspired by a subtle-colored Turkish rug, with walls finished in neutral clay. Full-length drapery frames courtyard views and highlights a primitive wood console. In the primary bath, Kaye designed a built-in vanity with open storage, coordinating the Roman shade fabric with the vanity's color for a "femme touch." The daughter’s room, inspired by Kaye’s trip to Puglia, Italy, features soft blue/grey paint on both walls and ceiling, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The guest bath features terracotta floor tiles from Bordeaux, France, complementing the original Spanish terracotta in the adjacent library, with white walls maintaining an airy feel, and pink, burgundy, and green hues aligning with the "French femme" style. #CliffordMay #RanchHouse #MalloryKaye #InteriorDesign #FrenchMakeover #LosAngelesArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #HomeRenovation #ElegantDesign

Domaine de Primard, an 18th-century Directoire estate nestled an hour west of Paris in the Eure Valley, has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious five-star retreat. This historic property, once owned by iconic actress Catherine Deneuve, now operates as Les Domaines Fontenille's seventh boutique hotel, having opened in the summer of 2021. The hoteliers, Frédéric Biousse and Guillaume Foucher, were drawn to the estate's serene countryside setting, romantic allure, and prime location, aiming to create a haven for city dwellers seeking a blend of historical charm and modern opulence. The 40-room and suite hotel thoughtfully preserves the estate's rich history, horticultural heritage, and regional character. Each of the accommodations offers direct access to the enchanting green spaces that define the property, highlighting the importance of the gardens as a central feature. These gardens are not merely decorative; they also supply fresh produce to Éric Frechon, the triple Michelin-starred chef responsible for Primard's seasonally inspired culinary program. The hotel's main restaurant, Églantine, is also under Frechon's direction, offering exquisite dining experiences. The interior design of Domaine de Primard pays homage to its 18th-century origins while incorporating a relaxed, contemporary aesthetic. This thoughtful approach ensures that the prominent estate feels inviting and comfortable rather than overly formal. Guests will discover a harmonious blend of sculptural, post-modern furniture juxtaposed with 300-year-old flooring, beams, and moldings. The walls are adorned with a mix of contemporary and vintage artworks, creating a seamless connection between the indoor spaces and the natural beauty outside. Guillaume Foucher emphasizes this playful approach, noting that Primard respects its history but enjoys subverting traditional codes with a touch of whimsical disruption to its classicism. The estate features numerous cozy common areas designed for relaxation and social interaction. For more intimate gatherings, the original kitchen, described by Chef Frechon as one of the most stunning spaces on the property, has been repurposed as a private event space. This blue-swathed area, offering picturesque views of the river, can be reserved for special dinners for up to 12 guests. Additionally, the hotel boasts a charming cocktail and Veuve Clicquot champagne bar that extends to a splendid outdoor area overlooking the estate's pond and a meticulously maintained rose garden. Beyond its culinary and aesthetic offerings, Domaine de Primard is a premier wellness destination. It houses the first Susanne Kaufman spa in France, located in a beautifully restored former woodshed. This spa is equipped with a sauna, hammam, jacuzzis, massage rooms, and fitness facilities. The treatments adhere to traditional protocols developed in the Austrian Alps, designed to soothe, restore, and rejuvenate the mind and body. For those who prefer outdoor activities, the estate provides opportunities for cycling through the countryside, swimming in the heated outdoor pool available year-round, leisurely reading by the pond, horseback riding, or golfing on a nearby Robert Hersant course. Guests can also explore Monet's Garden in the nearby town of Giverny. Domaine de Primard is envisioned as a sophisticated yet comfortable country retreat, embodying the quintessentially French elegance in its architecture, cuisine, interiors, and service. With nightly rates starting at $340.51, inclusive of children aged 12 and under, the hotel offers a restorative and family-friendly getaway for those seeking an authentic French experience. #FrenchCountryHouse #LuxuryHotel #CatherineDeneuve #DomaineDePrimard #BoutiqueHotel #FrenchTravel #HistoricEstate #InteriorDesign #WellnessRetreat

In the serene Monferrato region, a historic villa has been revitalized through a design project led by Atelier Rad, founded by Smaranda Radicati di Brozolo. The project sought to blend rural heritage with contemporary design, creating a space that is both intimate and open to social life, while reflecting memories and inspirations from beyond Italy's borders. The clients, a young family returning to Italy after living abroad, desired a home that served as both a refuge and a bridge, deeply rooted in the local landscape. The design approach by Atelier Rad avoided stark contrasts, opting instead for subtle gradations. This involved pairing retro furnishings with contemporary elements, incorporating artisanal touches, and introducing unexpected details that enrich the spaces while preserving their original character. The primary objective from the outset was to maintain the building's rustic charm while introducing a fresh perspective. Existing terracotta floors and old cement tiles were integral to this narrative, serving as historical anchors rather than being replaced. The villa's spaces were re-envisioned to enhance natural light and to open up views of the surrounding hills, fostering a warm and airy atmosphere where nature and design coalesce harmoniously. A custom-made kitchen, imported from England, introduces a distinct British influence with its pastel colors, classic proportions, and understated London elegance. This space is designed to be the heart of the home's convivial spirit, celebrating togetherness and drawing on past memories. The bedrooms continue this theme, designed for intimate and unpretentious comfort, yet possessing a unique character achieved through careful selection. Natural materials, soft fabrics, vintage pieces, and bespoke details were meticulously chosen to create an effortlessly elegant and familiar ambiance throughout the private quarters. The outdoor areas are an essential component of the villa's design, envisioned as a seamless extension of the interior living spaces. The garden features various relaxation zones, winding paths through the vineyards, and a swimming pool that artfully reflects its natural surroundings. The outdoor composition is deliberately harmonious and organic, mirroring the spontaneity of Piedmont's landscapes and offering evolving vistas with each changing season. This thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor living underscores the villa's connection to its environment. Through this restoration, the historic residence has been re-imagined without succumbing to mere nostalgia. It functions as a living home, a part of the landscape, and a vessel for memories that are vibrant and continuously evolving. The villa embodies a sense of calm and unhurried rhythms, simultaneously offering a fresh foundation upon which the family can build their future. This project exemplifies a balanced approach to design, honoring history while embracing contemporary living and a connection to nature. #historicVilla #Monferrato #AtelierRad #interiorDesign #ruralHeritage #contemporaryDesign #slowLiving #Piedmont #homeRenovation