A Jolt of Red-Orange Breaks Up All the Wood Paneling in This New Hudson Valley Hotel

Maison de la Luz, a new hotel from Atelier Ace, offers a serene and intimate escape from the vibrant energy of New Orleans. Located across from the Ace Hotel, this property is housed in a 1908 building that was once a city hall annex. Studio Shamshiri undertook the interior transformation, creating a visually rich environment. The hotel’s design showcases the transformative power of paint color, with bold, saturated hues used throughout to evoke specific moods and atmospheres. Nivara Xaykao, a color expert at Benjamin Moore, provides insights into achieving similar dramatic effects in a home setting. One striking example is the Bar Marilou, which features a high-gloss lipstick red from floor to ceiling, creating a vibrant and enveloping space further enhanced by matching velvet curtains. This bold choice exemplifies going "all the way" for drama. In the breakfast bar, a rich, classic indigo is prominent, appearing on the tented ceiling, wallpaper, and velvet banquettes. Xaykao notes that deep indigo, especially when paired with crisp white, evokes the timeless charm of a traditional toile pattern. The hotel’s lobby presents a dramatic teal, a moody blue-green that complements brass shelving holding silk-tasseled keys, reflecting the opulence of the Art Deco period and offering an elegant contrast to black and white elements. The foyer incorporates a silvery neutral, featuring blue-gray marble panels and striped walls. This warm silvery gray, combined with fresh white, provides a stylish and modern respite amidst antique furnishings and lavish Art Deco textures. Guest lounges utilize an iron accent color for structure. While walls are a pale gray to balance bold furnishings in citrine and tangerine, contrasting blue-toned black trim adds weight and acts as an anchor in a room filled with sumptuous furniture and eclectic artwork. The guest rooms embrace a lavender dream aesthetic, with a bare hint of lavender-gray on the walls. This calming yet sophisticated hue, paired with a wavy blue velvet headboard and warm neutral floors, demonstrates that soothing bedroom colors do not have to be uninspired. Finally, a backdrop gray is used in other areas, providing a pearly off-white shade with a touch of gray. This color is ideal for offsetting bold furniture, pillows, and rugs, creating a cozy and contemplative mood in various nooks and corners. Maison de la Luz serves as a rich source of inspiration for interior design, demonstrating how diverse paint colors can dramatically influence the ambiance and style of a space, appealing to both color enthusiasts and those who prefer more subtle palettes. #MaisonDeLaLuz #NewOrleansHotel #AtelierAce #StudioShamshiri #PaintColorIdeas #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #DramaticInteriors #BenjaminMoore

The Metropolitan Opera's Patron Lounge, now known as the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, underwent a significant redesign by ELLE DECOR A-Listers Christine and John Gachot of Gachot Studios. This renovation marks a new chapter for the storied space, originally decorated by Billy Baldwin when the opera house opened in 1966. The Gachots, longtime fans of the Met Opera, were tasked with refreshing the lounge to reflect contemporary luxury while honoring its rich history and the grand aesthetics of the opera house. The original lounge, characterized by its wall-to-wall windows and domed ceiling, was designed by Baldwin to offer practical, flexible seating areas for guests. However, after decades, the space required a modern update. The Gachots were selected for their expertise in warm, sophisticated interiors, demonstrated in previous luxury hospitality projects like the Pendry Manhattan West and Detroit’s Shinola Hotel. Their approach to the Met Opera lounge involved a deep dive into the Met’s extensive archives, studying original sketches and photographs to reinterpret Baldwin's vision while introducing a fresh perspective. Inspired by Baldwin's initial layout, the Gachots divided the lounge into distinct zones for various activities, including a bar area, comfortable sofas, and tables for gathering. This zoning strategy ensures that the space remains versatile and inviting. The design seamlessly integrates with the opera's iconic common areas, such as the lobby with its red carpeting and travertine accents. The chosen color palette of blush, red, and camel complements these existing elements, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the venue. One of the standout features of the redesigned lounge is a glittering gold custom carpet by Creative Matters, which evokes the effervescence of freshly popped Champagne, serving as a luxurious counterpoint to the lobby's famous red carpet. Other custom elements include a brass Amuneal bar, screens upholstered in Clarence House fabric, and all furniture supplied by Roche Bobois. The bathrooms feature fixtures by Waterworks from the Bond collection, designed in collaboration with Gachot, alongside Waterworks sinks, mirrors, and stone. The lounge's new name, the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, honors a managing director on the Met Opera’s board who generously funded the renovation. Access to this exclusive space is reserved for Metropolitan Opera sponsor members. The redesign is intended to symbolize a renewed commitment to attracting and nurturing a new generation of opera enthusiasts and patrons, a sentiment echoed by both Straz and the Gachots. The project underscores the importance of cultural institutions and the role of design in preserving and evolving these significant spaces. #MetropolitanOpera #LoungeRedesign #GachotStudios #LuxuryInteriorDesign #CulturalRenovation #HospitalityDesign #NewYorkDesign #OperaHouse #InteriorDecor

This blog post showcases the transformation of a 1915 Colonial Revival home in New Jersey, where designer Michael Maher skillfully blended historical charm with modern vibrancy. Following a significant addition that nearly doubled its original footprint, Maher implemented a gutsy color palette, wallpapered ceilings, and graphic painted floors to create a seamless and refreshed interior. The entrance features a visually engaging geometric pattern on the painted floor, complemented by a banquette in a Kravet stripe and 1940s French sconces, with walls painted in Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray. The spacious foyer, connected to the dining room, serves as a functional and welcoming area. It includes an extra table for large gatherings, a banquette, and a wing chair, with an English round table from Balsamo and an armchair in a Colefax and Fowler print. The lighting is enhanced by a Charles Edwards pendant. The kitchen adopts a layered neutral scheme, with walls in Benjamin Moore’s Jute and cabinetry and trim in Farrow & Ball’s Hardwick White. It is equipped with a custom Waterworks sink and Vermont Danby marble countertops. Hickory Chair stools, upholstered in Larsen leather, and a Visual Comfort chandelier, matching one in the adjacent breakfast room, complete the look. Ann Sacks floor tiles add a refined touch. In the breakfast room, a 19th-century English pine mantel from Chesney’s anchors the space, while vintage Swedish chairs are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue, contrasting with walls in Old White. Kilim rugs from Double Knot add warmth and texture. A highlight is the butler’s pantry, designed with a focus on color, pattern, and intricate details. It boasts glossy cabinetry and millwork in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue, Pomegranate wallpaper by Galbraith & Paul, and a mahogany countertop with brass banding and a copper sink, featuring a Perrin & Rowe faucet. The study, known as the Dukes Room, incorporates a Thibaut wallpapered ceiling and walls in Farrow & Ball’s Lichen, with a vintage Italian sofa covered in Lee Jofa fabric. The windows are left bare to emphasize the original architecture, and the room is furnished with a Visual Comfort pendant and Stark carpet. An antique secretary cabinet in the study showcases a collection of British commemorative cups. The dining room, located in the new wing, incorporates elaborate dentil moldings to harmonize with the home’s original architectural style. It is designed for comfortable entertaining with good lighting, comfortable chairs, and a five-foot-wide table. A personalized touch is added by a mural painted by Marylyn Modny, depicting the clients’ daughter within a historic New York Harbor scene, created in grisaille and including subtle details like the family’s children and dog. The living room is striking with its custom canary-yellow lacquered walls by Stephen and Lisa Longworth, creating a warm ambiance and complementing a palette of blue, coral, and ocher, especially luminous at night. Furnishings include an Ebanista sofa with Lee Jofa fabric pillows and curtains, and a Plexi-Craft cocktail table. The master bedroom is designed as a serene retreat overlooking the woods. Walls are wrapped in a mushroom silk from Phillip Jeffries, and the bed is adorned with a large-scale ikat in purple and pale blue from Carleton V, complementing a custom headboard. Curtains in Pierre Frey linen, a Vaughan sconce, and a Christopher Spitzmiller lamp enhance the luxurious and tranquil atmosphere. #NewJerseyColonial #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #MichaelMaher #HistoricHome #WallpaperedCeilings #GraphicFloors #CustomInteriors

Designer Rebecca Philipson undertook a significant remodel of a 1990s-built, 5,300-square-foot home in Aurora, Ohio, focusing on transforming the kitchen, great room, and lounge into more open and inviting spaces. The homeowners sought to infuse warmth and an open concept into their residence, a vision Philipson brought to life through a blend of traditional and rustic elements, with distinct French Country influences. Central to the design is the incorporation of Amish hand-hewn ceiling beams and elaborate stonework, which serve as prominent features, particularly in the lounge. This area, designed for relaxation and entertaining, includes a wet bar, a built-in refrigerator, and custom alder cabinetry. The adjacent sunroom houses a pool table, creating a seamless flow for social gatherings and post-dinner interactions. The overall layout was reimagined to foster a sense of togetherness, allowing family and guests to interact comfortably across the connected rooms. Philipson achieved this open concept by strategically removing the wall between the great room and kitchen, then linking the kitchen to the lounge. Archways were introduced to formalize these open transitions. The kitchen underwent the most substantial transformation. Previously walled off, it featured an angled peninsula, an irregularly shaped island, and low-hanging soffits. Philipson replaced these with faux beams to maintain the rustic aesthetic and installed a central island with seating for three. The homeowners' desire for warmth and intricate details was met through design elements such as decorative island legs. Attention to detail extends throughout the kitchen, with intricate touches found in the baseboards, legs, valances, and along the bottom of the island cabinetry. The refrigerator was artfully concealed with cabinet panels and mirrored glass, designed to resemble an armoire rather than an appliance, fulfilling the client's wish for cabinetry that emulated furniture. A built-in coffee maker contributed to a decluttered countertop space. The great room further showcases the sophisticated stonework, with cream-colored stone extending from floor to ceiling around the fireplace. This central feature is flanked by built-in cabinets that mirror the design of the kitchen's concealed refrigerator. Oversized iron hardware on the cabinetry adds a dramatic flair, complementing the multi-tiered iron chandelier, which serves as a focal point. Recessed lighting supplements the chandelier, with all lighting choices made to enhance the room's warm ambiance. The remodel successfully integrated rustic charm with French Country elegance, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment across the main living areas. #HomeRemodel #AuroraHome #FrenchCountryStyle #RusticDesign #KitchenRenovation #GreatRoomDesign #LoungeArea #InteriorDesign #OpenConcept

New York City lofts have a rich history, transitioning from industrial warehouses and manufacturing centers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries into desirable residential spaces. These structures were characterized by high ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows, originally designed to maximize natural light for industrial purposes. By the mid-20th century, as industries relocated from Manhattan, artists and creatives began to repurpose these buildings into versatile living and working environments. Today, lofts represent a fusion of historical character and contemporary design, offering a flexible foundation for innovative renovations. One such renovation project was undertaken by BOND, a design studio led by Noam Dvir and Daniel Rauchwerger. Their task was to revitalize a 1,000-square-foot Tribeca Loft situated within a landmarked New York City building. The goal was to preserve the loft's industrial heritage while integrating a modern, bright aesthetic. This particular loft had remained largely unaltered since the 1980s, necessitating a comprehensive update to accommodate contemporary living standards. BOND's approach emphasized careful preservation and enhancement rather than stripping away the original charm. The renovation involved significant structural and systems upgrades, including replacing old wiring, removing dropped ceiling panels, and installing a central air conditioning system. These improvements were crucial for modern comfort without compromising the loft's inherent character. A key design element was the introduction of a glass partition between the bedroom and living area. This strategic addition allows natural light to permeate the entire space, creating an open and airy atmosphere while still providing a subtle division between functional zones. This technique is commonly employed in contemporary loft conversions to enhance the sense of spaciousness. Reflecting the communal aspect of New York City loft living, BOND centered the design around the kitchen. A prominent 15-foot-long island, featuring waterfall edges and a distinctive cut-in detail, serves both as a practical workspace and a central gathering point. The island is complemented by walnut 'Tractor' stools from BassamFellows, fostering social interaction and connecting to the loft's historical role as a hub for creativity and community. The design philosophy embraced the loft's ability to evolve while retaining its original character. BOND achieved a balance between minimalism and warmth through carefully selected design elements. The bathrooms incorporate subtle yet vibrant pops of color, providing a playful contrast to the overall neutral palette. Gold and brown tones were chosen to complement the natural light streaming through the west-facing windows in the main living area. Sculptural furniture pieces, such as a metal coffee table, elevate the aesthetic while maintaining a sense of flow within the space. The loft also functions as a showcase for the owners' art collection, which includes geometric works by Mika Tajima and whimsical pieces by John Armleder. This integration of art into daily life harks back to the legacy of early artist-occupied lofts in the city, which often served as both residences and creative studios. The renovation successfully transforms a historic space into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing home, honoring its past while catering to contemporary needs. #NewYorkCityLoft #LoftRenovation #BONDDesign #TribecaLoft #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation #HomeDecor

This article details the transformation of a 1970s project home in Fingal on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula from an understated coastal cottage into a contemporary masterpiece. The property, situated on 2.4 hectares, was initially acquired by a professional couple a decade ago despite its neglected state. They initially converted it into a simple white cottage and lived there for ten years before embarking on a more ambitious renovation and extension project. The renovation aimed to create a family home that fostered connection while accommodating entertaining needs, particularly for their adult children and friends. Interior designer Deanne Penberthy Jolly, in collaboration with architects S Group, led the twelve-month project, completed in 2019. The design strategy involved retaining the original house, reimagining it as a tranquil 'sleeping pavilion,' and adding a new U-shaped wing. This new extension features an open-plan kitchen with a butler’s pantry and mudroom, as well as airy living zones, including a sunken lounge with a fireplace. These new areas are characterized by soaring raked ceilings with exposed beams and offer views of a swimming pool, tennis court, and a winter garden equipped with a pizza oven, making the home suitable for all seasons and various entertainment scenarios. The interior design focused on creating a warm and highly textured environment with a neutral base, drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings. Deanne Penberthy Jolly layered organic materials such as timber, stone, concrete, and leather. A consistent color theme of Dulux Deep Bottlebrush was applied to kitchen cabinetry, joinery, and mudroom walls, referencing the property's olive and tea trees and imparting a sense of harmony. The designer intentionally aimed for an 'understated' decor that would not feel 'overworked,' prioritizing calmness and relaxation. Polished plaster walls, striking pendant lights, tactile wallpaper, and large-scale artworks further contribute to the home's aesthetic appeal. A key aspect of the project's success was the strong collaborative relationship between the homeowners and the design team, particularly with Deanne. The homeowners emphasized the importance of being actively involved in the design process, fostering a sense of shared excitement and breakthrough moments. This close partnership ensured the final design aligned perfectly with the couple's vision for a family-oriented, entertaining space deeply connected to its natural environment. Although the family has since moved, the transformed coastal farmhouse remains a significant project for both the homeowners and the designer. #HomeRenovation #1970sHome #MorningtonPeninsula #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

Los Angeles designer Sally Breer, cofounder of design firm ETC.etera, has channeled her expertise into the vibrant Firehouse Hotel, located in the city’s Arts District. This new establishment, a collaborative effort with hotelier and restaurateur Dustin Lancaster, previously served as a fire station before being converted into an artist's loft in the 1980s. Breer's design philosophy for the hotel revolved around maximizing the fun with color, creating nine distinct guest rooms, each themed after a color from the ROYGBIV spectrum, alongside black and white rooms. Breer's approach to color in the Firehouse Hotel challenges conventional shyness in home decor, opting instead for bold and unexpected combinations. One key lesson from her design is the successful pairing of warm hues. In the Yellow Room, saffron bathroom tiles are contrasted with a scarlet vanity, which Breer describes as a rich, grounded color that balances the bright yellow. A mustard velvet bolster acts as both a headboard and backrest for a built-in bench. The Orange Room showcases a spectrum of sunset shades, from radiant pink to tangerine, creating a dynamic and cohesive space. Furthermore, the Violet Room demonstrates a sophisticated use of color by combining deep eggplant with warm pumpkin-hued silk pillows and curtains, which adds a sense of warmth to the violet. Another significant takeaway from Breer's design is the innovative use of pattern and patina to introduce color and texture beyond traditional paint. The Blue Room features a canopy bed adorned with a cobalt toile, complemented by smoky cabinetry. In the Green Room, an avocado-toned fauna wallpaper envelops the sitting area, and the kitchenette is outfitted with a deep forest green marble countertop. The Indigo Room draws inspiration from a vintage denim dead-stock, which Breer repurposed as a textured headboard, dictating the room's minimalist Japanese aesthetic. The bathrooms across all rooms feature Moroccan Zellige tiles from Clé Tile, with each color corresponding to its guest room, such as Indian Saffron in the Yellow Room and Ancient Sea in the Blue Room, and a more subtle Vintage Rose in the Violet Room. Finally, Breer incorporates nightclub-inspired accents in darker rooms to create a unique ambiance. The Black Room exudes a '70s nightclub vibe with leopard carpeting and inky-black bathroom tiles, offering a striking contrast to the vibrant rainbow mural and colorful sunset hues of the White Room. This 'grandma-punk' aesthetic, as Breer describes it, balances classic elegance with edgy elements. This theme extends to the hotel's restaurant, which features deep peacock blue walls and crimson banquettes, offset by a disco ball backsplash made from reflective tiles and a distinctive alien-like seafoam green light fixture. Breer's aim was to create a space that feels both historic and playfully unconventional, resonating with the surrounding art-filled neighborhood of Los Angeles. #HotelDesign #ColorInspiration #InteriorDesign #LosAngeles #SallyBreer #FirehouseHotel #HospitalityDesign #BoldColors #DesignLessons

This article details the transformation of a previously dark and uninspiring kitchen diner into a vibrant, sociable space using a bold palette of green, pink, coral, and mustard. The homeowners, who embrace color and maximalist design, collaborated with Pluck Kitchens, known for their birch plywood kitchens with colored laminate veneers, to achieve this dramatic makeover. The initial space, though not entirely undesirable, lacked light, prompting the owners to engage architects for a rear and side return extension. This structural alteration allowed for the creation of a bright, open-plan kitchen diner, alongside a utility room and playroom. The design process involved exploring numerous color combinations through Pluck Kitchens' jigsaw system, ultimately leading to a sophisticated yet fresh blend of coral and green. Key design choices included painting all woodwork in a dark shade to match the aluminium window frames, creating a cohesive aesthetic. Inner cupboards for the larder and crockery were finished in light pink, adding an unexpected pop of color upon opening. The extension features a side skylight that maximizes natural light, contributing to the overall brightness of the area. Considering the presence of a toddler, the homeowners opted for solid aluminium glazing instead of folding garden doors to address safety concerns, ensuring a robust connection to the outdoors without compromising security. The kitchen also showcases unique mustard yellow wall tiles installed vertically, providing an unconventional and protective splashback. A range cooker, offering gas functionality, was a top priority, along with a sociable island equipped with a sink and ample seating. The renovation, which included both the kitchen transformation and the extension, spanned three months and is documented on Instagram. The owners' preference for natural materials is evident in the choice of a pale wood veneer for some drawer fronts, which harmonizes with the flooring. These well-designed drawers offer highly efficient kitchen storage. A significant feature is the Terrazzo island worktop from Diespeker & Co, which the owner admired even before purchasing the house. This material complements the industrial black doors and contrasts with the natural flooring. Brushed gold fittings, such as the tap, were consistently used throughout the space to unify the various design elements. #KitchenTransformation #ColorfulKitchen #MaximalistDesign #KitchenDiner #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #PluckKitchens #SideReturnExtension #TerrazzoWorktop

This article details the design challenges and solutions undertaken by architect and interior designer Robert Garneau for a 1,000-square-foot studio apartment in a converted industrial warehouse in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. The homeowner, a first-time buyer, sought extensive storage and a private bedroom area while maintaining an open feel and natural light in the space. Garneau, inspired by his previous 'Transformer Apartment' project, focused on integrating comprehensive storage solutions, particularly for clothes and an extensive book collection. A key design element implemented was a wall of live-edge floating shelves, crafted from a single log, which serves as a dramatic focal point in the main living area and provides ample space for the homeowner's library. The primary challenge, beyond storage, was creating a semi-private bedroom without sacrificing the limited natural light from the apartment's single wall of windows. Garneau addressed this by devising extensive floor-to-ceiling cabinetry that functions as dividing walls, effectively carving out a separate sleeping area while maintaining visual openness to the windows. The most distinctive feature of the renovation is a translucent orange pivot door, which creates fluidity between the new sleeping area and the living space. This oversized door, made from a one-inch resin panel sourced from 3form, was chosen for its durability and its ability to display a full spectrum of orange hues, appearing reddish-brown when unlit and glowing bright yellow-orange when illuminated. Garneau described this as the 'key spatial move' to provide bedroom privacy while ensuring cohesive continuity throughout the apartment. The door's design includes a cutout around the under-window cabinetry, allowing the exterior wall to remain uninterrupted and the door to appear to float in the space. The hardware, including a commercial pivot hinge and recessed pulls, was selected to be as inconspicuous yet structurally strong as possible. Additional design considerations included the home's entry, which features wall-mounted and freestanding cherry storage units. The galley kitchen incorporates cherry cabinetry, a concrete counter, and a backsplash that connects with a concrete wall in the living room. Floating cherry shelves in the kitchen offer display space for kitchenware. Dark-stained wide plank walnut floors are used consistently throughout the apartment, and original concrete walls were exposed to contrast with the existing rustic wood columns. The homeowner utilizes the orange door by keeping it open during the day for spatial continuity and closed at night, where artificial light enhances its warm glow, creating a serene and cozy bedroom atmosphere. #StudioApartment #ChelseaLoft #SpaceSavingDesign #StorageSolutions #TranslucentDoor #InteriorDesign #RobertGarneau #ModernLiving #InnovativeMaterials

The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge features a striking 25-foot vertical living wall in its lobby, blending industrial aesthetics with natural elements. Designed by Harrison Green, this living wall diverges from conventional green walls by emulating the natural migration patterns of plants, allowing vegetation to grow organically across concrete and steel surfaces. The installation serves as a dynamic, artistic focal point, continuously evolving with its plant life. The design strategy emphasizes a graceful and simple framework, supporting a diverse selection of plants including staghorns, ferns, vines, and creeping ficus. These species were chosen specifically for their suitability to the interior environment and lighting conditions of the hotel. To supplement natural light, custom-designed pendants equipped with daylight spectrum bulbs are installed, mimicking sunlight to support the plants' growth and vitality. This living wall is a central feature within the eco-conscious 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, contributing to its overall design ethos. The hotel, situated by the Brooklyn Bridge and New York's East River, integrates natural themes and sustainable practices throughout its design. The living quarters and accommodations, designed by Marvel Architects and INC Architecture and Design, further synthesize the natural world through their material selections and overall motifs. The installation transforms the lobby into a luxurious space that feels both sculptural and organic, yet modern and raw. It embodies the hotel's commitment to harmoniously blending history, design, and nature, offering guests a unique waterfront retreat experience. The strategic placement and organic growth of the plants create a visually compelling experience that connects visitors with nature even within an urban setting. By creating a living, breathing art piece, the hotel enhances its ambiance while reinforcing its eco-friendly credentials. The living wall not only adds aesthetic value but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment, aligning with the hotel's mission to offer a sustainable and immersive natural experience. This innovative approach to interior design highlights how green elements can be thoughtfully integrated into commercial spaces to create dramatic and impactful installations. #LivingWall #HotelDesign #Brooklyn #HarrisonGreen #InteriorDesign #EcoConscious #GreenArchitecture #BiophilicDesign #UrbanNature

This article highlights a vibrant renovation of a French Eclectic luxury home in Preston Hollow, challenging the contemporary trend of all-white interiors. The residence, originally built by Hawkins-Welwood, underwent a comprehensive interior makeover driven by the owner's desire to create a 'happy house' for her three daughters. Instead of conforming to minimalist color schemes, the owner embraced bold and diverse colors throughout the 6,967-square-foot property, aiming to evoke joy and happiness from the moment one enters. Compass Real Estate listing agent Julie Provenzano emphasizes that every design decision was made to spark joy. The owner remained steadfast in her vision, believing that the bold colors passionately defined the home's character, even when preparing to sell. Provenzano notes the practicality of this approach, stating that colors can be easily changed by a potential buyer, and even a dramatic hot pink kitchen backsplash is simply paint covered with an acrylic material, making it reversible. The renovation included significant structural changes, such as moving walls and dramatically vaulting the ceiling in the family area. Custom features, like a mantle with hidden storage, were incorporated to enhance functionality, especially for a mother of three. Throughout the home, spectacular light fixtures and high-end finishes complement the vibrant color palette, which is presented as the primary focal point of the design. A standout example of this fearless use of color is observed in the formal dining room, where a unique paint application is compared to a 'Razor Fade haircut,' suggesting its innovative and striking nature. The residence features six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a powder bath, each offering unique design elements. The master bedroom, for instance, is painted in hues reminiscent of rich chocolate and a perfect latte. The master bath, while incorporating white, includes a practical, sensible bathtub, diverging from the often impractical vessel tubs. The playroom showcases a custom bookcase with a bright, almost school bus yellow interior, providing a clever pop of color against a neutral gray room with white walls. This intentional splash of color is designed to captivate children, while also being easily modifiable for future owners, though the article encourages its preservation. Provenzano describes the property as a "happy house" and a unique opportunity for buyers seeking a distinct aesthetic. Listed by Provenzano at $2.5 million, the home at 6446 Glendora Avenue is presented as a space where imaginative dreams can come to fruition. The article underscores how the renovation celebrates individuality and a joyful approach to home design, moving beyond conventional trends to create a truly personalized and uplifting living environment. #FrenchEclectic #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BoldColors #LuxuryHome #DallasRealEstate #PrestonHollow #HappyHome

Fifth Group Restaurants, known for establishments like La Tavola and Ecco, is set to transform its Midtown seafood restaurant, Lure, into Lure Saltwater Kitchen and Bar. The original Lure will close on September 2nd, with the new concept opening just a week later. The renovation reflects changes in the dining scene and habits within Midtown, aiming to inject new excitement and energy into the space that has been operational for 13 years. Lure Saltwater Kitchen and Bar will maintain its focus on sustainable seafood, but with a revamped approach centered around small plates prepared on a newly installed wood-fire grill. The interior will undergo a refresh, and a new patio bar is being added to enhance the dining experience. The beverage program is also being updated to complement the new culinary direction. To lead this transformation, the team has brought in chef de cuisine Olivier Reedholm, formerly of The Grey in Savannah and the Michelin-starred Under in Norway. Reedholm will collaborate with Fifth Group's vice president of culinary, Mark Jeffers, and director of culinary, Brandon Chavannes, who was involved in the initial opening of Lure. This culinary trio is partnering with Farmers & Fisherman Purveyors to ensure that all seafood items adhere to the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch List, promoting sustainability. A key feature of the new menu will be the daily-to-weekly changing “Fleeting Moments” selection, offering fresh oysters, aguachile, crudo, ceviche, and tartare. This ensures a dynamic menu, encouraging repeat visits. A unique shared plate option, the “Tackle Box-Chef Assortment,” will present raw bar items in a vintage tackle box. The small plates section will feature imaginative dishes such as mussels in Thai coconut broth, blue crab tamale with pumpkin mole, and crispy shrimp with Chinese chili garlic crunch, peanuts, and seaweed. For diners preferring more traditional entrees, five options will be available, including pork shank, wood-grilled chicken, wagyu steak frites, and a filet of fish in brown butter sauce. These dishes aim to provide a classic yet approachable dining experience, distinct from a formal chop house. The wood-fire grill is expected to impart unique and dynamic flavors to these offerings. To cater to health-conscious guests, Lure Saltwater Kitchen will offer “Breadless Service” with house-made kimchi, pickles, and spicy condiments, alongside gluten-free anchovy garlic bread. Salads and vegetables will be available from the “From the Soil” section of the menu. A notable dessert item will be wood-fired, slow-roasted pineapple in rum caramel, served with house-made ice cream. The beverage program, curated by Fifth Group head of beverage innovation Ian Mendelsohn, will feature cocktails designed to complement the kitchen’s bright and exotic flavors. Options will include a frozen “creamsicle” cocktail and drinks incorporating shochu, yuzu, lemongrass, and chili. The wine list will expand to about 50 sustainable, biodynamic, or organic varieties, and eight beers will also be on offer. The aesthetic changes, guided by design team ai3 (who also designed the original Lure), will introduce new pops of color, including red and green, throughout both the indoor and outdoor spaces. New patio furniture and murals by a local artist will contribute to the refreshed ambiance. The new patio bar will host a happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, featuring half-price oysters. Beyond culinary and design enhancements, Lure Saltwater Kitchen emphasizes environmental sustainability. The restaurant will collect rainwater for toilet flushing and plant watering. It has also partnered with Shell to Shore, a nonprofit organization that repurposes oyster shells to rebuild reefs, thus contributing to marine ecosystem restoration. The new Lure will soft-open on September 10th, with its official grand opening slated for September 16th. #FifthGroupRestaurants #LureSaltwaterKitchenAndBar #MidtownAtlanta #SustainableSeafood #RestaurantRedevelopment #WoodFireGrill #SmallPlates #EnvironmentalSustainability

Entrepreneur Eric Bach embarked on a comprehensive renovation of his Craftsman home in Echo Park, Los Angeles, with designer Leah Ring of Another Human. Bach, known for his "psychedelic taste," sought to infuse his home with vibrant colors and unique design elements, departing from the typical earth tones often seen in Southern California interiors. The project's genesis lay in Bach's admiration for a specific swirly emerald and celery marble slab he saw on Ring's Instagram, which he eventually secured for his kitchen after an extensive search. The initial phase of the renovation focused on reconfiguring the home's layout to accommodate Bach's casual hosting style. The main living space, previously divided by columns, and a closed-off kitchen were opened up to create a more fluid environment. This included eliminating a formal dining room, a practical choice for the Los Angeles lifestyle, allowing for guests to gather around the kitchen island or dine outdoors. A key element of the living room design is a large L-shaped sky-blue sofa, chosen to evoke the feeling of "sitting on a cloud," a direct contrast to conventional neutral palettes. Bach's extensive art collection heavily influenced the home's aesthetic. The living room features a gallery wall alongside a Frame TV, seamlessly integrating technology with art. Adjacent to the main sofa, a sitting area showcases neon "wackadoo chairs," further enhancing the vibrant and unconventional atmosphere. The primary bathroom was inspired by a photograph of a woman swimming underwater, leading to a bold mix of blue tiles that cover the shower walls and floor, creating a distinctive and immersive experience despite initial skepticism from friends and family. Color played a significant role throughout the home. The guest bathroom was designed as a soothing, spa-like space with sage-green tiles, while a guest room, also serving as Bach's office, features a shocking pink comforter and Technicolor art. In contrast, the primary bedroom maintains a neutral palette with linen bedding and a minimalist nightstand, providing a calm retreat. This intentional contrast highlights Bach's philosophy of designating specific areas for relaxation versus energy. The kitchen, a central focus of the home, harmonizes the striking marble backsplash with almond-colored Plykea cabinet fronts and a linoleum floor that subtly echoes the marble's pattern. The design reflects Bach's fearless approach to personal style, emphasizing that design should evolve and bring happiness, regardless of external opinions. The renovation ultimately transformed the Craftsman into a unique and personalized space that reflects Bach's bold and artistic vision. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesDesign #VibrantColors #MarbleKitchen #OpenConcept #EclecticDecor #ModernArt #PersonalizedSpace

Rodney Lawrence, an ELLE DECOR A-List designer, developed a model apartment in The Cortland, a new luxury development in West Chelsea, New York City. The building, designed by Robert A.M. Stern, features a historic feel with over a million hand-laid bricks, inspired by the iconic London Terrace. The interior architecture by Olson Kundig maintains a restrained aesthetic with rigorous lines and a limited palette, including an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, marble fireplaces, and high-end finishes like hand-brushed artisanal Italian metallic lacquer and Statuario Belgia marble. Lawrence aimed to infuse nature into this structured environment, departing from the base design while respecting its spirit. He researched Olson Kundig’s projects, noting their tendency to feature minimal structures set within natural landscapes. His goal was to bring this natural essence indoors, specifically for a hypothetical young family seeking cool yet approachable design. His design strategy for the 1,500-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath apartment focused on incorporating a multitude of colors and layered organic shapes. The combined living and dining area exemplifies this approach with curvaceous silhouettes. Key elements include a custom sofa in a velvety Élitis fabric, a Crate & Barrel three-legged cocktail table, and dining chairs from Burke Decor. A custom banquette elegantly snakes around the dining space, highlighting the multi-functional aspect of modern living, where the dining table can double as a workspace and a console as a desk or bar. To seamlessly connect the living and dining zones, Lawrence utilized subtle design cues. He selected a chain-link chandelier from Trueing Studio, strategically hanging its glass link chains so that each bulb illuminated a focal point in both areas. A custom ombré gradient wallpaper from Trove was commissioned, creating an illusion of distant water or fog. Lawrence explained that this was a deliberate choice to establish an internal horizon within the apartment, as the exterior view primarily consisted of other buildings. In the main bedroom, the horizon theme continues with a "floating" platform bed illuminated from behind its custom headboard. The wall behind the bed is upholstered in an azure satin fabric from Coraggio, a color echoed in the lacquered, built-in side tables. Curvaceous forms are also present in the channel-tufted banquette nestled into the bay window and in a pair of pendant lamps by Brooklyn artist Yuko Nishikawa. A charcoal drawing by the late Belgian-American artist Jan Yoors, a special print arranged through his estate, hangs above a textured credenza from Burke Decor. The children’s room is designed with a playful sea theme, featuring a fort-like bunk bed and a dedicated work area. The walls are covered in a wave-textured material and adorned with 3D-printed fish that create a sense of movement. Jellyfish paper lamps dangle from the ceiling, and plump poufs from RH provide a buoy-like effect. A rug by Trish Andersen Studio serves as an abstract coral reef. Lawrence acknowledged that the recent lockdown significantly influenced his design, shaping both space allocation and decor choices. The design emphasizes comfort and ample space for families, reflecting new priorities for homeowners. The model apartment's dreamy design can be replicated in other units with similar layouts within The Cortland. #luxuryRealEstate #interiorDesign #modelApartment #ombreDesign #rodneyLawrence #newYorkCity #designInspiration #architecturalDesign #homeDecor

Hotel Julie, a new nine-room hotel in Stratford, Ontario, showcases a unique approach to hospitality design, where each suite is conceived to function as a self-contained apartment. Property developers Jake Tayler and Paula McFarlane enlisted Autumn Hachey of You Should Stay Here and Jillian Smith-Moher of Twenty-Two Twelve to bring their vision to life. The collaborative design process, documented in a 10-episode CTV Life series, focused on creating distinct, bold personalities for each space, moving away from conventional, uniform hotel aesthetics. One innovative design solution is found in Flat 4, a smaller suite where a traditional door between the bedroom and lounge was not feasible. The designers incorporated an oversized keyhole-shaped opening, custom-made by Hemme, adorned with velvet curtains. This feature not only serves a functional purpose but also adds significant visual impact, paying homage to Stratford's rich theater history. In Suite 6, the designers challenged conventional material application by extending diamond checkerboard travertine and marble tile from the floor to the upper half of the walls in the kitchen, creating a wallpaper-like effect. To manage costs without compromising aesthetic, they specifically chose a cross-cut travertine, a less popular but equally effective style, which blended seamlessly with the burl wood furniture used elsewhere in the suite. Flat 3 presented a design challenge with its deep violet and dark chocolate color palette for a galley kitchen. To counteract the potential for a dark and dismal feel, a round peephole was carved into one of the walls, introducing an unexpected source of light and visual interest into the enclosed space. The design duo also masterfully integrated a striking burgundy and blue color combination in Flat 7, a scheme that designer Smith-Moher realized mirrored elements in her own home. The choice of Rosa Levanto stone, a more budget-friendly alternative to Calacatta Viola, was instrumental in achieving this luxurious look without overspending. Calacatta Viola was used sparingly for accents. Furniture selection emphasized customization and creative repurposing. Many pieces were reupholstered, such as a vintage sofa covered in House of Hackney’s Artemis Moss velvet, and bespoke wavy headboards were crafted by Kara Shuster from And Once We Were. A notable example of this ingenuity is the transformation of a CB2 outdoor dining table for Suite 4; its original top was replaced with a green marble slab, initially intended for a coffee table, which significantly elevated the table's appearance and the overall aesthetic of the suite. The article concludes by listing the specific Benjamin Moore paint colors used throughout Hotel Julie, offering readers practical inspiration from the hotel's diverse palette. #HotelDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #PaintColors #HomeRenovation #CreativeSolutions #BoutiqueHotel #DesignInspiration