Before & After: Vintage Tile Rules In This Remodeled Fisherman’s Flat in Spain

Stephanie Wong and Daniel Watson embarked on a significant renovation of the 150-square-foot kitchen in their newly acquired 1920s Spanish-style bungalow, which they affectionately named Finca Glenfeliz. The kitchen, while perfectly serviceable, was original to the house and disconnected from the home's inherent charm, lacking the warmth and natural light found elsewhere in the property. The couple saw this as an opportunity to customize the space to their liking, especially after missing out on a previous home that offered an appealing indoor-outdoor flow. Initially, they painted the entire house to brighten the interiors. Following this, they decided to live with the existing kitchen for a period to better understand its limitations and their specific needs. This practical approach, crucial for their first renovation project, revealed that the kitchen felt cramped and lacked direct access to the backyard. Inspired by the indoor-outdoor concept, a key feature they admired in another property, they formulated a plan to integrate the adjacent laundry room into an expanded kitchen layout. This involved knocking down the wall separating the kitchen and laundry room, installing French doors leading to a future deck, and creating a dramatic archway to connect the kitchen with the dining room, enhancing the overall spaciousness and flow. Stephanie, utilizing her branding background, meticulously planned the renovation using mood boards to blend the home's Spanish architectural style with warm, desert-inspired modern aesthetics. To manage costs, they remained in the house during most of the construction, even setting up a temporary cooking area in the dining room. A notable decision was relocating the washer and dryer to be tucked under the kitchen counter, effectively maximizing space. The renovation progressed through several stages: initial demolition, electrical and plumbing upgrades, new drywall and subfloor installation, and then the critical choice of finishes. They invested in semi-custom white oak cabinets from Fire on the Mesa, known for their warm, light honeyed tones, which were complemented by matte brass pulls. A trip to Mexico influenced their design choices, particularly the selection of red terra-cotta Saltillo floor tiles, aiming for a vacation-like ambiance. Appliance selection involved a mid-project change, upgrading from a standard big-box stove to a high-end Bertazzoni model. The backsplash was adorned with handmade Moroccan zellige tiles in 'Glazed Earth,' and Roman Clay plaster was applied to the walls to introduce a subtle, organic texture. The installation of terracotta-hued light fixtures, open floating shelves instead of traditional upper cabinetry, and concrete-style quartz countertops from Caesarstone completed the functional aspects of the kitchen. The final touches included decorative elements like greenery, a wall hanging from Küdd:Krig HOME, and display of their growing wine collection and dishware. The completed kitchen, with its newly integrated spaces, French doors, and archway, successfully transformed into a warm, inviting, and modern space. The couple viewed the renovation as a fulfilling shared experience, particularly during the pandemic, and Stephanie expressed encouragement for others considering similar projects. #KitchenRenovation #SpanishBungalow #HomeDesign #BeforeAndAfter #InteriorDesign #DIYRenovation #WarmAesthetics #MediterraneanStyle

This article details the transformation of a 1920s Spanish bungalow in Los Angeles, which had previously undergone a quick, character-lacking flip. Candace Shure of Shure Design Studio was tasked with reimagining the home for a young lawyer and first-time home buyer, aiming to infuse it with joy, relaxation, and productivity. Instead of a complete overhaul, the design approach focused on sustainability by retaining existing quality materials such as flooring and kitchen components. The primary challenge was the home's monochromatic aesthetic and mismatched lighting fixtures. The client, who splits his time between Downtown L.A. and working from home, desired a vibrant and personal space. Shure Design Studio strategically added impact to the three-bedroom, two-bathroom home, with particular attention paid to the kitchen and dining room. The galley kitchen, which had a significant gap, was enhanced with a custom island painted in a contrasting deep navy (Sherwin Williams' Indigo Batik) and adorned with unique brass and inlaid bone hardware. This design choice ensured the new island complemented the existing white cabinets and countertops while adding the client's personality. The small dining area, positioned off the kitchen and in front of French doors leading to the patio, was optimized with a custom banquette. This solution maximized space in the awkward corner, with a notable feature being velvet cylinder forms hanging by leather straps for the banquette's back, and custom iron legs under the seat. The living room presented a layout challenge due to its narrowness, requiring careful selection of furniture dimensions to ensure a comfortable flow. The client had already ordered an emerald green velvet sectional, which, fortunately, fit the space and became a bold statement piece, aligning with the designer's desire to incorporate vibrant colors. The primary bedroom, benefiting from natural light and direct access to the backyard, was designed to maintain a sense of lightness while featuring a bold accent wall and an unexpected bed choice. A blue-toned wallpaper and an arched canopy bed were incorporated, reflecting the client's preference for shades of blue. This blue and green color palette was extended to the home office, aiming to create a quietly uplifting effect. The renovation successfully transformed the bungalow into a bright, welcoming, and joyful space that the client and his guests enjoy. #SpanishBungalow #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHomes #ShureDesignStudio #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #SustainableDesign

The article details the renovation of a Spanish-style Bel-Air home, focusing on how designer Natalie Myers updated the space while preserving its original 1970s character. A key decision was to retain the existing Saltillo tile floors, which Myers viewed as integral to the home's groovy aesthetic. This choice set the foundation for a cohesive design that integrated both vintage charm and modern elements, a departure from previous design attempts that hadn't fully embraced the home's potential. The clients' willingness to allow Myers to fully integrate her vision enabled a comprehensive transformation. The kitchen renovation was a priority due to the clients' temporary living situation. Myers efficiently updated the kitchen by retaining the solid cabinet boxes but replacing the dated fronts with flat slab doors, painted in Berkshire Beige by Benjamin Moore, a color that shifts between pale green-gray and olive depending on the light. The most striking addition to the kitchen was the Calacatta Macchia Vecchia marble countertops. A minor layout change involved removing the island's overhang seating, deemed impractical for the space. The renovation showcases how strategic material choices can significantly impact a room's aesthetic while working within existing structures. Myers emphasized creating a memorable powder room, eschewing traditional wallpaper for a dramatic Calacatta Viola sink. This decision allowed the unique veining and color of the marble to become the focal point, providing an impactful visual statement in an otherwise minimalist space. Similarly, the living room's existing bar area was enhanced by wrapping it in chunky Dolce Vita dolomite and installing brass shelves, elevating its presence to match the grandeur of the surrounding open-plan space. Throughout the home, Myers introduced plaster finishes, drawing inspiration from 1970s Los Angeles architecture. This included replastering a fireplace in the dining room and incorporating a textural abstract painting. The fireplace base was updated with terrazzo tiles from Concrete Collaborative, chosen for their durability against potential chipping from children's activity. The original dark wood floorboards were lightened to achieve a more contemporary feel, while the orange-red doors were stained black, aligning them more appropriately with the Spanish architectural style of the house. In the main bathroom, a long and narrow space, Myers transformed it from one covered in glass mosaic tile to a vision of oakwood millwork and zellige tiles. She created a gridded pattern on the wall opposite the vanity by alternating 4-by-4 and 2-by-8 tiles. A practical challenge encountered was cutting the glass shower panels around the various bump-outs, indicating the complexities of working with unique tile patterns. For the primary and kids’ bathroom shower niches, leftover marble backsplash from the old kitchen was ingeniously repurposed, offering an affordable yet elegant touch and serving as a subtle nod to the home's previous design iterations. Overall, the renovation successfully blended the home's historical 1970s Spanish roots with modern design sensibilities, largely through thoughtful material selection, color palette choices, and strategic updates to key areas. The designer's approach demonstrates how to respect a home's original character while introducing contemporary elements that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #1970sRevival #SpanishStyleHome #Marble #Dolomite #BeforeAndAfter #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #MaterialSelection

The popularity of vintage tile is experiencing a significant resurgence, with Pinterest's 2025 fall trend report indicating a remarkable 1,107 percent increase in searches for this design element. This trend surpasses even other popular choices like striped tile bathrooms, suggesting a strong desire among users for classic and antique-looking finishes. This renewed interest extends beyond merely admiring vintage aesthetics; it also includes a growing enthusiasm for incorporating authentic vintage tiles into modern renovation projects. This article offers guidance on where to acquire these unique materials and showcases various innovative ways designers have successfully integrated them into contemporary spaces, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms. For those looking to source vintage tiles, several online platforms and specialized stores offer a wide selection. Notable options include Etsy, which provides a marketplace for individual sellers offering unique pieces; Vintage Tile Shop and The Antique Floor Company, both dedicated to vintage and antique flooring and wall tiles; Olde Good Things and Storied Salvage Tile Co., which specialize in architectural salvage and reclaimed materials; Chairish, known for its curated collection of vintage and antique furniture and decor, including tiles; Deltftiles.com, focusing on authentic Delft tiles; and Historic Houseparts, offering a range of antique architectural elements, including tiles. The article highlights four distinct approaches to utilizing vintage tiles in design. One method involves using vintage trim to enhance basic tiling. Designer Samantha Tannehill exemplifies this by framing standard square or white subway tiles with a sweet, traditional floral trim found in Massachusetts, creating a sophisticated border in a guest bathroom. Another approach emphasizes the slow and deliberate collection of vintage tiles over time. An English home, for instance, features a fireplace adorned with antique manganese Delft tiles, which were accumulated over several years. This technique underscores the charm of building a collection gradually until a cohesive design can be realized. A third application involves creating a clear cut-off point when working with a limited quantity of vintage tiles. Lindy McDonough and Conor MacKean, faced with a finite supply of milky gray vintage tiles for their Rhode Island bathroom, ingeniously used a brass piece to bridge the gap between the ceramic tiles and the wood floor. This solution not only conserves the unique material but also introduces an interesting design detail. Finally, vintage tiles can be used to fill in gaps in existing period installations. In a Pittsburgh kitchen, Lexi Ribar and Morgan Stewart of Studio Lithe meticulously matched and sourced historic white tiles from the 1920s to complete a circa-1926 blue and white tile scheme. This method ensures the preservation of the original aesthetic while seamlessly integrating new yet period-appropriate pieces. These examples demonstrate that vintage tiles, whether used as accents, focal points, or practical solutions, offer a timeless appeal and a unique character that modern alternatives often lack. The article concludes by presenting a selection of currently available vintage tiles, including Antique Delft Tiles, 1960s Romany Tawny Beige Tile, Mid Century Trim Tiles, and an Art Nouveau Fireplace Surround, further inspiring readers to explore the possibilities of incorporating these historical elements into their homes. #VintageTile #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesignTrends #ArchitecturalSalvage #DIYHomeDecor #TileDesign #KitchenRenovation #BathroomDesign #AntiqueDecor

The Spanish revival interior design style is experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity, offering a versatile foundation for blending traditional and contemporary aesthetics. This trend, drawing inspiration from European and Mediterranean influences, is characterized by unique architectural details, a warm color palette, and a remarkable ability to integrate with diverse design schemes. Interior designers Kristen Fiore and Mollie Ranize explain that Spanish revival interiors are a fusion of Spanish colonial and Moorish elements, focusing on natural materials such as wooden beams, arched passages, plaster walls, and rich colors often expressed through tiles and mosaics. The style prioritizes comfort and creates timeless, inviting atmospheres. Spanish revival interiors are about reintroducing life into traditional Spanish architecture by incorporating patterns and textures while accommodating modern lifestyles. The style evokes a sense of coziness, achieved through varied lighting sources, comfortable furnishings, subtle patterns, and softly textured wall surfaces. Its current popularity, especially in areas like Southern California with abundant historic Spanish-style homes, is attributed to a longing for unique and charming spaces, contrasting with the often-impersonal feel of modern constructions. The renewed interest in decorating with vintage and antique pieces also aligns with the Spanish revival’s appreciation for character-filled elements and a home's original features. Designers note that one-of-a-kind elements are highly valued, with a shift from discarding old for new to embracing historical characteristics. The trend is also influenced by the availability of Spanish-style homes and furniture on the market that features Spanish revival elements. Ultimately, this style is seen as a classic and enduring design form that emphasizes a beautiful blend of boldness and simplicity, suggesting it has never truly gone out of style but rather enjoys renewed appreciation. Decorating with the Spanish revival style involves several key principles. First, an earthy color palette is essential, with terracotta being a prominent hue, complemented by shades of red, green, brown, and orange. While terracotta often features in roofing, it translates beautifully into interiors as a natural, neutral red in tile flooring. Walls are typically kept clean and white, serving as a canvas for art, with green accents providing unexpected pops of color. Second, mixing old and new is crucial to maintain authenticity without creating an overly thematic or dated look. Integrating antique and vintage pieces with contemporary furniture helps to preserve the integrity of a Spanish-style home while making it feel modern and curated. Key decor pieces include rustic wood, leather, iron, oil paintings, tapestries, distressed pottery, statement lighting, sconces, and antique rugs. Third, selecting traditional and timeless decor is important. The understated and classic nature of Spanish revival allows for a variety of furnishings, but it's best to avoid mixing periods like Victorian or Art Nouveau. Traditional silhouettes and materials such as shaker or mission styles, leather, and linen are recommended. For larger furniture items, neutral colors are preferred as they are significant investments and contribute to a timeless feel. Wood tones, ranging from mid-tone to dark, also enhance this classic aesthetic. Fourth, infusing personal style is vital to transform a mere aesthetic demonstration into an authentic, lived-in home. The architectural elements should remain true to the style, but furniture and decor can be chosen for comfort, function, and individual taste, with handmade items and pieces with a history being particularly effective. Finally, making a feature of the architecture is paramount, as Spanish revival interiors are known for elements like red-tile roofs, arches, coves, tiled bathrooms, hardwood floors, exposed beams, and textured walls. While not all homes can incorporate these structural details, internal design elements such as arches, hardwood flooring, patterned tiles, and textural walls (e.g., lime wash paint) can be introduced to add character. Patterned tiles, especially those with Moorish designs, are an excellent way to integrate the style into homes without matching architecture, complemented by patterned textiles in upholstery and pillows in earthy colors. Creating textural interest through natural materials, imperfect finishes, and carefully chosen decor items like iron lights and sconces further enhances the charm and character of the Spanish revival style. #SpanishRevival #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #EarthyColorPalette #MixingOldAndNew #ArchitecturalDetails #PatternedTiles #TexturalInterest

The article details a kitchen renovation project undertaken by Lexi Ribar and Morgan Stewart, cofounders of Pittsburgh firm Studio Lithe. The project involved updating a childhood home for a client who had recently re-purchased it. A central challenge and opportunity in the renovation was the kitchen's original circa-1926 blue and white tile, which initially caused some controversy. The homeowner and her husband wanted to replace the entire tiled area, primarily due to the dark grout and perceived damage over time. However, Studio Lithe convinced them to retain the vintage tile by demonstrating through renderings how it could integrate into the new design and by highlighting the significant cost savings compared to purchasing new, high-quality replacements. The renovation began with a meticulous demolition plan, aiming to preserve as much of the existing tile as possible while removing other elements. During this process, gaps in the tiling, previously concealed by old appliances, were discovered. The designers sourced historical white tiles from the 1920s online to match and fill these gaps. Fortunately, the intricate blue tiles along the archway did not require replacement, which would have been difficult and expensive to replicate. After installing quartzite countertops, the team meticulously cleaned and repaired the old tiles. The designers emphasized that the salvaged tiles would not be perfect, embracing their imperfections as a testament to the kitchen's history. A significant functional improvement was transforming a cramped closet area beyond the blue archway into a fully equipped prep pantry. This required 17 layout iterations to accommodate a column freezer, column fridge, ice maker, beverage cooler drawers, and a speed oven, centralizing most appliances outside the main kitchen area. For aesthetic appeal, custom cabinets with radius corners and a fluted range hood were designed by Drury Cabinetry to complement the metal detailing of the range and the arch's curvature. A carousel was installed in a large lower corner cabinet to maximize storage and accessibility for pots and heavy appliances. The renovation also prioritized the needs of the client's children. A wall was removed and a load-bearing beam installed to create an extra-long island, providing space for lunch boxes and homework. A La Cornue induction cooktop was chosen for its safety features, directly warming cookware without heating the entire surface, thus protecting small hands. This thoughtful integration of old and new, functional and aesthetic, successfully modernized the kitchen while honoring its historical character and accommodating the current family's lifestyle. #KitchenRenovation #BeforeAndAfter #VintageTile #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #CustomCabinetry #FamilyFriendlyDesign #SpacePlanning

Designers Dominique Brammah and Shannon Shlom of Duet interior studio transformed a 1930s Spanish-style home in Avalon, Sydney, into a warm, European-inspired retreat. The property, initially featuring existing Sydney red gums, tree ferns, and cabbage tree palms, was enhanced by landscape architects Spirit Level and stone masons Farley Roberts, who integrated native plantings and a network of sandstone flagging, stepping-stone paths, and boulders. This extensive landscaping connects the home with its Australian surroundings while maintaining a European feel. The 1930s structure, although humble, had robust timber windows and masonry walls that were retained. The redesign focused on reshaping the interior spaces and expanding the footprint. A nursery and a 'wet block' containing the main ensuite, powder room, and laundry were added to the rear. An old lean-to was removed to create a north-facing loggia, which now houses an open-plan kitchen, dining area, and breakfast banquette that seamlessly connects to an alfresco terrace. New French doors and casement windows were installed to improve airflow and integrate the indoors with the outdoors. The external laundry was repurposed into a multi-functional butler’s pantry, and bespoke tumbled mosaic floor tiles were designed by Duet. The internal layout of the home is arranged around a central sandstone fireplace, optimizing space and eliminating unnecessary hallways. Upstairs, the study was updated with sisal carpet and a caramel sofa, and a new bathroom was added for the guest room. The primary bedroom was expanded to include an ensuite and a generous balcony offering garden views and a distant water vista. The designers employed a courageous and cohesive color palette, drawing inspiration from the natural environment and the client's preference for feminine softness. Common areas, initially white, were given a buttery gloss finish, using Dulux Rice Crop on walls and high-gloss Bread Crumb on ceilings to enhance natural light. Private spaces, such as bathrooms, were adorned with rose pink and cloudy blue, while the nursery and a downstairs bedroom featured midnight and Dulux Blue Balm, respectively. Tadelakt plaster was used to create textured surfaces, contributing to the home's distinctive character. The furniture and lighting selections involved a mix of cleverly sourced vintage pieces and custom-designed items, including warm upholstery and textile panels in cabinetry, and fabric-covered joinery doors. These elements, combined with dramatic drapes, add a layer of romanticism and quiet luxury, reflecting both the home's architecture and the client's spirit. The overall design successfully blends the romance of the past with contemporary functionality, creating a unique and inviting living space. #SpanishStyleHome #AvalonRenovation #InteriorDesign #DuetStudio #LandscapeArchitecture #HomeRemodel #ColorPalette #VintageFurniture #EuropeanInfluence

This article highlights the transformative renovation of a 1980s Spanish revival house in Montecito, California, by Dmar Interiors. The primary goal was to modernize and brighten a tired, dated home while preserving its original character, particularly its impressive vaulted ceilings. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design updates can significantly enhance a property's aesthetic and functionality. One of the most impactful changes involved the original 1987 bright orange wood paneled ceilings and beams. Instead of painting them white, the design team opted to stain them a darker, more natural shade, which paradoxically contributed to a brighter feel in conjunction with fresh, warm white walls. This decision helped integrate the existing architectural elements into a contemporary 'California coastal meets Spanish revival' aesthetic, a signature style of Dmar Interiors, led by Mollie Ranize with Kim Serani and Maria Aramburu. A key aspect of the renovation was to increase the sense of light throughout the house and create a cohesive, fresher look. This was achieved by unifying the flooring across different spaces and introducing new furnishings and finishes with layered textures rather than relying on bright colors. This approach allowed the eye to flow seamlessly through the interiors and also draw attention to the surrounding lush landscaping, maximizing natural light and outdoor views. The kitchen, described as the 'star' of the home, underwent a dramatic transformation from a dark and drab space. The design team implemented a new layout, including a functional and social island. A significant structural modification involved relocating a load-bearing post to create a large, usable island. Aesthetically, the kitchen now features light surfaces, rich Calacatta Gold countertops, and a vibrant patterned backsplash. The original cabinets were updated with solid, Shaker panel doors in a lighter color, and a cheerful blue Casablanca tile backsplash was chosen as a nod to the Spanish style while maintaining a coastal feel. This new layout also allowed for the inclusion of a built-in breakfast area, catering to the family's needs. In the living room, the existing vaulted ceilings were a strong feature, but the space lacked a focal point. Dmar Interiors addressed this by designing a double arched built-in with a central window seat. This addition not only framed the view of the front yard but also provided extra storage and display units, which helped manage clutter and enhanced the room's sense of light and spaciousness. The furniture selection, including a white sofa, traditional rug, and grey armchairs, contributed to a balanced and inviting atmosphere. The dining room, which opens to a poolside outdoor lounge, was designed to maintain its connection to the outdoors while achieving a more formal ambiance. This was accomplished through high-contrast and detailed furnishing pieces, a mix of angular and curved patterns, full-height natural linen drapery panels, and subtle pops of color from the area rug and lamps. The bedroom was transformed into a serene retreat with a palette of coastal blue-grays and sandy neutrals, making it brighter and more airy. The original ceiling treatments were stained to match the home's overall scheme, and light, bright walls further promoted relaxation. The bathrooms also received comprehensive makeovers. The main bathroom, originally dark and cramped, was completely reconfigured to accommodate an expansive vanity, a freestanding bathtub, a larger open shower, and a private water closet. An arched detail over the bathtub alcove tied the design to the rest of the home, complemented by patterned floor tiles. The children's bathroom, characterized by its long, narrow footprint and lack of natural light, was optimized with a new double vanity, a floor-to-ceiling storage tower, and light finishes, including a patterned floor tile and a custom vanity with a quartz countertop. Looking ahead, the homeowners and Dmar Interiors plan further enhancements, including a guest house with a kitchen, bar, and lounge, as well as an outdoor fireplace, kitchen, and covered dining space, underscoring a continued commitment to maximizing the property's potential. #HomeRenovation #CaliforniaCoastalDesign #SpanishRevival #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRemodel #CeilingStaining #NeutralPalette #Montecito

The LeBlanc family, the second owners of a 1950s Old Goodwood home, undertook a renovation inspired by the house's original features, particularly a preserved 1950s Palm Beach-style Chinoiserie mural in the dining room. Heather LeBlanc and her husband Kevin were drawn to the home's character and history, including original wood windows in the solarium and terrazzo floors, after outgrowing their previous residence. The home was originally owned by the Prosser family, whose lively household was once featured in a 1963 newspaper article. The LeBlancs aimed to maintain the home’s "soul" and history while updating it for modern family life. Heather’s cousin, architect Rachel Dansky, conceptualized the renovation to improve flow and function. Key changes included converting a former breakfast area into a laundry room and mudroom, updating the kitchen with new cabinetry and an island while retaining its original footprint, and reconfiguring the primary bathroom to include separate closets, a freestanding tub, and a separate shower. A significant challenge was integrating the beloved dining room mural, which Heather insisted on keeping, while opening up the space to the kitchen. Dansky designed a careful incision in the wall to create an opening, preserving most of the mural and improving flow for entertaining. Designer Sara Brignac of Workshop 31 Twelve was brought in to assist with the interior aesthetics. Brignac, familiar with the home's history and appreciative of older houses, guided the LeBlancs in preserving vintage elements like the dining room's wainscotting. The mural’s ocean-inspired color palette became the central theme for the home’s interior, influencing paint choices for cabinets, molding, and trim in various rooms. Brignac also sourced period-appropriate light fixtures and layered new textiles with existing furnishings to create visual interest. The collaboration between the LeBlancs, Dansky, and Brignac ensured a harmonious blend of historical preservation and contemporary functionality. Contractor Cameron Hernandez and his team were responsible for the structural renovations, including replacing some floors, removing dark wall paneling, and restoring original louvered doors and staircase spindles. The renovation also saw the introduction of new elements, such as crystal doorknobs, that complemented the home’s heritage. Many furniture pieces, including the dining room table and floral-upholstered chairs, were sourced from estate sales, some even from the Prosser family’s own estate sale, further connecting the new owners to the home's past. Individual rooms received thoughtful updates: the living room features blue crown molding and trim, vintage floral chairs, and a mirror-topped coffee table; the solarium's original louvered doors and terrazzo floors were maintained, with furnishings from Inspirations Furniture & Design; the kitchen boasts soft blue cabinets and Roma Gold marble countertops; a new bar area was created from an underused passageway; the primary bedroom includes a vintage-inspired floral wallpaper as an homage to the original, complemented by Swedish bedside chests; the powder room walls are covered in Sister Parish Design with new green cabinetry; an 8-year-old daughter's bedroom features a four-poster bed and lilac-motif bedding; another daughter's bathroom retains its original octagon-and-cabochon tile with old-school fixtures; and the son's bathroom keeps its geometric patterned tile floor, accented with a Kohler Memoirs sink and retro industrial-style lighting. This renovation exemplifies a thoughtful approach to updating a historic home while honoring its original character and the memories embedded within its walls. #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #PalmBeachStyle #ChinoiserieMural #OldGoodwoodHome #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #VintageDecor

In September 2020, jewelry and interior designer Trish Becker undertook the daunting task of renovating a severely dilapidated Spanish Colonial style stucco home in West Palm Beach, Florida. The 2,900-square-foot property, built in 1931, presented numerous challenges, including the complete absence of a kitchen and functioning plumbing, a discovery made only after purchase. Furthermore, the house was infested with rodents. Despite these significant obstacles, Becker transformed the three-bedroom residence into a vibrant showplace characterized by a funky, Mediterranean aesthetic. Becker, who had no prior experience with Spanish Colonial homes, approached the project cautiously to avoid a theme that felt overly theatrical. She meticulously preserved original elements like the intricate wrought iron stair railings and floor tiles, while incorporating new details that honored the home's historical origins. The renovated home was affectionately named "La Salvadera," meaning 'sandbox' in Spanish, initially as a humorous nod to its prior condition and later reflecting its joyful and playful ambiance. The living room's design was inspired by an original tiled fireplace, complemented by a handwoven corn husk rug that introduces earthy texture. Flamboyantly patterned upholstery on slipper chairs by Quadrille, featuring the “Les Indiennes” fabric, mimics the outdoor foliage. The entry retained its original stair railing and floor tiles, which were among the few significant details Becker was able to keep. The dining room, a frequently used space due to the lack of an eat-in kitchen, blends woven rattan chairs and bamboo shades with an agate sputnik chandelier, creating an atmosphere where every meal feels like a special occasion. The sunroom, or “Florida room,” became Becker’s favorite workspace, bathed in natural light from its original cathedral-style windows with Gothic arches. For the kitchen, which was gutted and lacked floors, Becker designed an entirely new layout. The cabinetry, painted in Benjamin Moore “Southfield Green,” was inspired by the living room’s original fireplace tiles. This choice subtly links the two spaces. The powder room, previously a dark space beneath the stairs, was revitalized with Common Room’s “Lioness & Palms” wallpaper, a vanity from MVV by Jennifer Farmer, and vintage mirrors. The primary bedroom features a canopy bed upholstered in Thibaut “Marine Coral,” making it Becker’s favorite room. The primary bathroom showcases durable “Lucky Primero” wall tiles by Villa Lagoon Tile, which emulate wallpaper, and a double vanity with faux bamboo detailing. The guest bedrooms offer unique touches: one with an eBay-sourced rattan bed and another with twin beds featuring Quadrille “Sultan II” upholstery and affordable green fabric shades from Gray Line Linen. The guest bathroom features a chinoiserie-style rattan mirror and a dresser with a Moroccan-style trellis pattern. Externally, Becker replaced a second-floor window with a door and added a balcony. FGS Architects designed columns and pedestal details to seamlessly integrate with the home’s original style. The backyard boasts a travertine terrace surrounding a heated pool, creating an inviting outdoor living space. Becker addressed the extensive renovation challenges, including collapsed cast iron waste pipes and multiple layers of old bathroom tiles, which were five inches higher than the bedrooms. The majority of the budget was allocated to essential structural elements like the foundation, plumbing, and exterior walls. Cost-saving measures included using IKEA cabinets with Semihandmade fronts in the kitchen and incorporating approximately eighty percent vintage rattan furniture sourced locally and online. The design aimed to enhance the home’s Spanish Colonial character, drawing inspiration from Addison Mizner’s architectural style prominent in 1920s Florida. This included changing a window to a smaller one with a period-appropriate wrought iron grille, using encaustic tiles, and installing authentic Spanish Colonial era exterior sconces. #SpanishColonial #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TrishBecker #WestPalmBeach #HistoricHome #DesignInspiration #VintageDecor #MediterraneanStyle

DG Arquitecto has completed a minimalist renovation of a 1920s penthouse in Valencia's Ruzafa neighbourhood, transforming a previously compartmentalized 100-square-metre space into a modern living area while meticulously preserving its original architectural character. The design, led by Isabel Roger Sánchez and Daniel González López, focuses on integrating contemporary functionality with historical elements such as mosaic floors, decorative mouldings, and arched doorways. The penthouse, situated on the top floor of an apartment block, originally featured narrow corridors and small rooms. The clients tasked DG Arquitecto with adapting the layout for modern living while ensuring that the apartment's unique original features remained central to the design. A key decision was to retain and restore the decorative mouldings and doors, which were painted white to conceal any wear and tear. The vibrant mosaic floors, a hallmark of Valencia's early 20th-century architecture from a significant factory in nearby Meliana, were carefully cleaned and preserved to highlight their original colours throughout the entire apartment, extending from the kitchen to the office area. To create a more open and functional living space, the studio combined the living room and kitchen into a single, integrated area. This transformation involved thoughtful spatial reorganization, allowing for a seamless flow between these primary communal zones. Despite these significant changes in the main living area, the apartment's three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and the terrace largely maintain their original layout, demonstrating a balanced approach to renovation. The new additions and interventions are characterized by a minimalist aesthetic and a consistent material palette. Oak was chosen for new built-in elements, including the kitchen cabinetry, wardrobes, and bookshelves, due to its inherent warmth and uniform appearance. An oak floor and a dressing room were incorporated into the main bedroom, further enhancing its modern appeal, while an office area with built-in shelving was strategically placed between the bedrooms and the terrace, offering a dedicated workspace. The architects emphasized that the distribution changes were intentionally limited by the objective of fully preserving the original mosaic flooring and the integrity of the moulded ceilings. This careful consideration allowed the studio to transform the existing spaces effectively without compromising their historical essence. The project stands as an example of sensitive renovation, echoing similar Spanish apartment projects that have successfully integrated modern design with the preservation of historical tiled floors, such as those found in Barcelona where colourful mosaics delineate original room layouts. Photography for the project was provided by Mariela Apollonio. #ValenciaArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #MinimalistInteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #MosaicFloors #DGArquitecto #OakWood #OpenPlanLiving #SpanishInteriorDesign

Tiles have been a prominent feature in Spanish interior design, particularly within homes in Barcelona. This article highlights seven remarkable examples from the city, showcasing diverse and striking tile applications in residential spaces. These projects demonstrate how tiles can be utilized to achieve various aesthetic and functional outcomes, ranging from preserving historical character to defining modern living zones. The first featured project, Laia and Biel's House by TEd'A, involved the renovation of a home belonging to the owners of a Mallorcan tile brand. The design creatively repurposed deteriorating terracotta tiles by crushing them into an aggregate and mixing them to form a terrazzo-style grout, resulting in unique ceramic surfaces throughout the house. Casa Conxita by Escolano + Steegmann uses terracotta tiles to delineate the 'static' areas of the apartment. This choice not only grounds the space but also draws inspiration from the reddish hues of Barcelona's rooftops. Contrasting yellow and forest green tiles are integrated to create a distinctive splashback in the open-plan kitchen, adding a vibrant touch. The End of the Roc apartment by Nook Architects showcases a meticulous preservation approach. During its renovation, the architects opted to retain existing ornate patterned floor tiling, a 40-year-old wall mural, and original wooden ceiling beams, ensuring the historical charm of this Gothic-quarter apartment remained intact. David Kohn Architects' Carrer Avinyó apartment features an innovative use of triangular tiles to create an ombré effect on the floors, transitioning colours from green to red. This subtle gradient helps to loosely define the private spaces for each of the two brothers sharing the home. Additionally, traditional sea-blue square tiles are applied to the kitchen's rear, overlooked by a mezzanine bookshelf, adding another layer of texture and color. In House 106, Raúl Sánchez implemented bold flooring by arranging simple black tiles in a herringbone pattern across the five-bedroom residence. These striking floors are contrasted by a curved oakwood panel at ground level, which cleverly encloses a small dining area, creating a dynamic interplay of materials and forms. Built Architecture's Casa AB, located in a 19th-century apartment, features original red, blue, and beige patterned floor tiles that introduce a burst of color. The apartment, described as an 'art gallery,' is further adorned with tall oak cabinetry, numerous paintings, and sculptural hangings, where the vibrant tiles complement the artistic environment. Finally, La Odette by CRÜ Studio demonstrates how warm-hued tiles can be used to delineate different living zones in a narrow home after removing partition walls. In the kitchen, terracotta tiles are applied in a unique back-to-front manner to create a textured feature wall, which is further enhanced by a panel of red polished marble behind the stove. This innovative application adds depth and character to the space. Each of these projects illustrates the versatility and enduring appeal of tiles in shaping distinct and functional residential interiors within Barcelona. #BarcelonaHomes #TileDesigns #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #SpanishTiles #RenovationProjects #TerracottaTiles

This article details the comprehensive kitchen renovation of a 1920s California bungalow, transforming a dated and uncharming space into a vibrant, retro-inspired kitchen. The homeowners, a couple in their late 30s/early 40s living with their two corgis in Alameda, California, sought to modernize their kitchen while preserving a fun, retro aesthetic that reflected their personal style and the home's history. The original kitchen featured 15-year-old dirty linoleum flooring, tiled counters with white grout, a chipped ceramic sink with an outdated faucet from 1982, and fluorescent task lighting. The cabinets were the only element in good condition, and the clients opted to paint them and replace the hardware rather than a full replacement. The design process, led by professional designer Abigail Braden of August Interiors, prioritized functional upgrades alongside aesthetic changes. New porcelain tile flooring was installed for ease of cleaning, and durable quartz counters replaced the problematic tiled surfaces. The old sink and faucet were updated with new fixtures designed to complement the overall aesthetic without being a focal point. The large fluorescent light over the sink was replaced with a new flush mount fixture. The primary inspiration for the new color scheme and feel came from a specific backsplash tile the clients loved. This tile, described as both retro and offbeat, featured a pattern that informed the entire palette. A deep blue from the tile's center circle was selected for the cabinet color, a mint green/blue for the walls, and light gray counters to subtly echo the tile's faint gray lines. The darker green from the tile was incorporated into custom window treatments, which also featured additional blues, bright yellow, and a touch of pink. The existing 1950s-style diner table and chairs, though the chairs were replaced, served as a foundational element for the retro vibe. The designer embraced a palette of bright colors and mixed patterns, ensuring cohesion through the consistent color scheme. The new backsplash tile, custom Spoonflower window treatments (developed with Hang Tight Studio for a specific color palette), and floor tile all contributed unique patterns while harmonizing with the overall design. A particular highlight for the designer was the addition of a bold yellow, which was not part of the initial plan but was introduced through a new light fixture over the sink, then expanded to the new retro-style dining chairs and window treatments, creating a vibrant 'pop' of color. The biggest challenge of the renovation was the flooring. The cement tile initially considered for the floor, which later became the backsplash, was ruled out due to its high maintenance requirements that didn't align with the clients' lifestyle. Alternative retro options like penny tile and a two-toned checkerboard pattern were considered but ultimately discarded. The clients' primary concern was finding a floor that would not show dirt easily, especially given their dogs, and would have minimal grout. After exploring over 15 different patterns, a pinwheel pattern was chosen for the porcelain floor tiles, using the deep blue and minty colors from the rest of the kitchen, with gray grout to camouflage dirt. The project, completed between June and October/November 2019, cost approximately $15,000, with a significant portion allocated to tile labor. The homeowners contributed significantly to cost savings by undertaking tasks such as removing old flooring layers, demolishing counters and backsplash, and painting cabinets, demonstrating a hands-on approach to their home improvement. #KitchenRemodel #RetroDesign #BeforeAndAfter #ColorfulInteriors #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaBungalow #TileDesign #DIYHomeProjects

Leah Bradley, an interior and landscape designer from Southern California and an avid surfer, sought to infuse her Costa Mesa ranch-style mid-century home with a laid-back coastal vibe. Six years ago, she and her husband purchased the home, aiming to enhance its flow and reflect their surfing lifestyle. Her vision began with a two-part renovation of the kitchen, which ultimately involved transforming the space to evoke a beach aesthetic. The initial phase of the renovation involved significant structural and aesthetic changes. Bradley removed two non-load bearing partitions in the kitchen, opening it up to include the entryway and dining area, thereby improving the home's overall flow. She replaced the original vinyl flooring with engineered oak planks, installed a new island, and added custom oak cabinetry. To further enhance the kitchen's look, she swapped the existing white porcelain tiles for unglazed terracotta tiles. However, after living with these changes for some time, Bradley found that the extensive use of wood and brown tiles resulted in an overwhelming expanse of earth tones, lacking the vibrant pop of color she desired for a true coastal feel. Determined to bring more color and a clearer representation of her love for the Pacific Ocean into her kitchen, Bradley embarked on a second renovation. Her inspiration came from Domino’s new line with Concrete Collaborative, which features hand-pressed concrete tiles in various colorways inspired by sun-soaked coastlines. These durable and beautiful tiles offered an artisanal quality and were suitable for busy family life, capable of withstanding the daily activities of her three children, from cooking assistance to art projects. For the tile color, Bradley selected a subtle blue hue called "Rain," which she felt perfectly captured the essence of floating in the ocean, a profound connection to her surfing background. This choice was not just about color but also about durability and ease of maintenance, crucial for a high-traffic area like the kitchen. Instead of a traditional monochrome installation, she opted for a striped pattern, alternating the "Rain" tiles with Concrete Collaborative's "Blonde" color. This design choice created a gentle visual splash that complemented the home's mid-century architecture without overpowering it. The finished kitchen now exudes an open, welcoming, and breezy atmosphere. The crisp vertical lines of the striped tiles draw the eye upwards to shelves displaying cherished travel souvenirs from various surfing destinations, which had previously blended into the earth-toned background. These items, including old wood objects, books, and vintage art, are now highlighted. Bradley notes that the tiles, with their hints of creamy sea foam and Pacific blue, beautifully mimic ocean currents. A subtle detail of the stripes extends below a picture window, subtly pointing to the view outside, where the family's surfboards are stored, ready for their next adventure. The renovation successfully created a kitchen that not only functions as the heart of the home but also deeply reflects the family's passion for the ocean. #kitchenRenovation #coastalDesign #tileDesign #midCenturyHome #concreteCollaborative #interiorDesign #homeRefresh #surferLifestyle

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller