Home Design: Hyde Park Heirloom

This article highlights the interior design project of a young family's new home in Yorktown Heights, Westchester, carried out by Elana Tenenbaum Cline of Carta Creatives. The family, having moved from New York City, needed a home that reflected their contemporary style while also being practical and durable enough for preschool-aged children. A significant aspect of the design challenge was integrating the clients' extensive plant collection, which Cline viewed as an essential element of the home’s aesthetic, akin to art. The home's design focused on furnishing and decor, light fixture upgrades, and strategic paint choices, as the house was move-in ready and did not require major renovations. The homeowners were actively involved in selecting pieces, opting for readily available items from retailers like Soho Home and Jaipur Living rather than custom solutions, which allowed for hands-on approval. Cline emphasized creating spaces that felt sophisticated yet approachable, avoiding anything overly 'precious' that might not withstand the rigors of family life with young children. The living room, characterized by its high ceilings and abundant natural light, was designed with neutral tones to allow the outdoor views to be the focal point. Key furnishings included a large U-shaped sofa from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and an oversized Lulu and Georgia lounge chair, chosen for comfort and functionality, especially for a new parent. Performance fabric was used throughout the high-traffic area, and a black, round coffee table was selected for its durability against spills and lack of sharp edges, ensuring child safety. The family’s large fiddle-leaf fig plant was strategically placed in a window corner, highlighting Cline’s approach to integrating greenery. The entry area, featuring a tall ceiling, was made welcoming with olive tree branches, providing a natural element. An Annie Selke rug, Pottery Barn bench and planter, and a basket from The Citizenry contributed to a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. In contrast to the lighter, more open common areas, a dedicated 'Bourbon Room' was designed to be dark and moody, serving as a late-night entertainment space. Cline used black Farrow & Ball paint on all surfaces, including the ceiling, to create a monolithic, modern backdrop. This room also incorporated custom-built shelving and stone-topped cabinetry, created through an Ikea hack with the help of the client’s father, a former woodworker. Dark green curtains, Soho Home chairs, a brown area rug, a Lulu and Georgia sofa, an Otto Copenhagen table, and Katie Skelton sconces completed the sophisticated library aesthetic. The dining room was envisioned as a private adult space, with an Arhaus extendable dining table and chairs for entertaining, complemented by linen Zara Home drapes that added texture and an open feel. An Anthropologie light fixture and a CB2 planter provided sculptural interest. Adjacent to this, the dining nook served as a practical, high-traffic area for daily family meals. It featured a Ruggable rug, which is machine-washable, and an oval Soho Home table, chosen for its soft edges and ability to accommodate highchairs. Rove Concepts chairs and a Crate & Barrel light fixture completed this functional space. The primary bedroom maintained a neutral palette, with an Arhaus headboard echoing the green velvet from the Bourbon Room. Linen drapes, bedding, and a lumbar pillow from Parachute added textural depth. A sculptural CB2 desk offered a contemporary workspace for the wife, and marble-topped nightstands from Soho Home provided a refined touch. Elana Tenenbaum Cline also provided specific tips for designing with plants, emphasizing that fiddle-leaf figs are excellent for high-light areas, branches can fill volume without requiring much maintenance, and planters should be chosen intentionally, considering both aesthetics and practical aspects like drainage and growth space. This comprehensive design approach successfully blended contemporary style with family-friendly practicality and a strong connection to nature.

Sarah Jessica Parker, known for her distinctive fashion sense, extends her impeccable style to her New York City townhouse, as evidenced by a recent glimpse shared on Instagram. The image reveals an inviting room bathed in sunlight, featuring a blue tartan lounge and a brass vase filled with bold red flowers on a coffee table. The backdrop includes a deep-hued floral wallpaper and a tasselled yellow cushion with a unique floral pattern, all contributing to an eccentric yet romantic aesthetic. Fans expressed appreciation for the textures, colors, and cozy ambiance of the space. Parker and her husband, Matthew Broderick, purchased the West Village townhouse in 2016 for $34.5 million, embarking on a renovation to imbue the property with their personal touch. The residence spans over 13,900 square feet and reportedly includes a 2,100-square-foot garden and a library, catering to Parker's passion for reading. Morris Adjmi Architects, known for their work on the Samsung building and the Austin Nichols House, oversaw the renovations, which reportedly cost $50 million. This aligns with Parker's long-standing interest in interior design, previously showcased in a 2014 Vogue '73 Questions' feature that highlighted her former Greenwich Village home. That property featured floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, unique artworks, and an antique sideboard with a vintage drinks tray. Beyond their New York City residence, Parker and Broderick also own a $6.5 million Hampton's hideaway. This seafront property was briefly available for rent on Booking.com in 2022, offered for two nights at a modest price. Parker's personal message for the listing emphasized a desire for guests to feel at home, encouraging them to enjoy the secluded backyard, spend time at the beach, dine at local restaurants, and utilize the fully stocked bar and vintage appliances. This article highlights Parker's consistent dedication to creating personalized and stylish living spaces, reflecting her unique aesthetic across multiple properties. The blend of bold patterns, rich colors, and thoughtful details defines her approach to home decoration, demonstrating how her personal style translates effectively into interior design. #SarahJessicaParker #CelebrityHomes #NYCTownhouse #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MatthewBroderick #WestVillage #Hamptons

A family seeking a unique summer retreat in Southampton commissioned a home that deviates from the typical Hamptons shingle-style aesthetic. They collaborated with local architect James Merrell to design a modern structure on a four-acre plot, which successfully balances 21st-century design with traditional Hamptons village vernacular. The resulting H-shaped house, oriented east to west, maximizes natural light throughout the day, with careful placement of windows and plantings by AD100 landscape architect Edmund Hollander ensuring views of the outdoors from every room. To infuse the Zen-inspired interiors with personality and vibrancy, AD100 designer Kelly Behun was enlisted. The homeowners expressed a desire for both playful and sophisticated elements. Behun curated a space filled with distinctive furniture and art, leveraging her network of artisans. Notable pieces include a Shape Up chandelier by Ladies & Gentlemen Studio, colorful rugs designed by Kinder Modern and Behun for the Rug Company, and a collection of Memphis Group ceramics alongside contemporary vessels by Erica Prince and Manal Kara. Behun approached furniture as sculptural elements, prioritizing both comfort and functionality. The outdoor spaces were also integrated into the design, with Behun collaborating with Hollander to strategically place and light outdoor art installations. These include a stainless-steel zipper sculpture by Mark Richard Hall and an eight-foot-tall painted-fiberglass sculpture by Chiaozza. For the children, a supersized chessboard and Thomas Heatherwick's Spun chairs were added to the yard, creating whimsical and engaging elements. Despite the playful additions, Behun maintained a refined aesthetic by anchoring the interiors in neutral tones, luxurious materials, and stained white oak. The living room features a modular Francesco Binfaré sofa, complemented by brass and stone furnishings. The master bedroom, designed with a 1970s chalet-by-the-sea ambiance, incorporates fuzzy wool carpet, a vintage ribbon-like chair, and a channel-tufted headboard. Reading nooks and a library were also key considerations, reflecting the homeowner's profession as a novelist. The home's central, double-height library serves as a family gathering space, complete with Vladimir Kagan sofas. A shared "bunkroom" for the children includes capsule-like beds and cozy wall nooks for reading. A less conventional request, a bowling alley in the basement, was designed by Behun with inspiration from French artist Jean Dubuffet, featuring a graphic black-and-white pattern on Élitis wallpaper, creating a perception-bending effect. The finished home successfully provides a fun-filled, non-electronic environment for the family and their children's friends. #HamptonsDesign #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #KellyBehun #LuxuryHomes #LandscapeDesign #ArtisticInteriors #CustomFurniture #FamilyHome

The article details the transformation of a newly built, characterless spec house in East Hampton into a multilayered home brimming with personality, overseen by designer Heidi Caillier for client Colleen DeCourcy. DeCourcy, who leads the global creative team at Snap, sought to infuse the house with character after purchasing it as a standard builder's spec home featuring white walls and subway tiles. Her collaboration with Caillier, initiated through an online platform, quickly evolved into a traditional design partnership, marked by creative freedom and a shared appreciation for sophisticated design. The design philosophy centered on creating a home that felt as though it had been curated over time, avoiding the sterile appearance of new construction. Caillier achieved this by incorporating bespoke elements and a rich blend of textures, patterns, and historical influences. A significant aspect of the design involved integrating pieces from BDDW, a brand known for handmade furniture by artist Tyler Hays. Several BDDW items were selected, including a distinctive bench-cushioned sofa and custom-upholstered armchairs. The kitchen walls were adorned with BDDW tiles featuring Delft pottery-inspired flora-and-fauna vignettes, and Hays was commissioned to create an eight-foot-wide tapestry-like canvas for the living room, depicting a lakeside scene. The home’s aesthetic draws inspiration from British country interiors, characterized by deep, moody color palettes, often with rooms painted a single color including ceilings and trim, and an emphasis on coziness and intricate details. This nod to old-world traditions is evident in elements like classic floral prints, antique Persian rugs, and unique chandeliers. Despite the historical influences, the design is distinctly modern in its execution and ingenuity. For instance, the dining room features a hand-painted mural by James Mobley, with pastoral motifs inspired by local woodlands that extend onto the ceiling, creating an immersive experience. Each of the home’s 7,500 square feet was meticulously considered. The main communal areas—the dining room, kitchen, and living room—maintain a direct line of sight and chromatic harmony, yet each possesses a distinct identity. The library, for example, is enveloped in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves painted in Farrow & Ball’s Salon Drab, a chocolate brown, and furnished with 19th-century-inspired armchairs from Jamb, upholstered in plaid wool with velvet trim, alongside a large green ottoman and a vintage floor lamp. The property's four-acre landscape was also rewilded by local garden designer Charlie Marder, adding various tree species to establish a sense of heritage and connection to nature. Specialized details are prominent throughout the residence. A guest bath boasts a custom vanity with Bardiglio blue marble, custom Zia Tile floor tiles, and beadboard walls. Another guest room features a custom bed covered with a Melin Tregwynt Welsh Blanket, a Stephen White hanging light, and an Adam Pogue custom ottoman. The pantry is notable for its vibrant carmine red, achieved with Farrow & Ball’s Bamboozle paint. The primary bath showcases Portola Paints Lime Wash on its walls and a tub by The Water Monopoly, while the poolhouse bath is adorned with custom Tabarka tile, a vintage Italian modernist mirror, and a Barovier & Toso sconce. The comprehensive design approach aimed to create a home that felt rich with history and personal touches, rather than a brand-new space. This layered aesthetic reflects both the client's desire for a lived-in feel and the designer's philosophy of allowing creative freedom to manifest unique design ideals. The result is a home that seamlessly blends classical inspirations with contemporary artistry, creating a comfortable and visually engaging environment for DeCourcy and her family. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HamptonsHome #HeidiCaillier #CustomFurniture #BDDW #BritishCountryInteriors #ArtIntegration #LuxuryLiving

The article presents a case study of a London home designed by Howark Design, aiming to evoke a country feel within a city setting without resorting to clichés or artificial elements. The client, a young Belgian woman who is an avid equestrian, desired a relaxed home that incorporated her family's heirloom antiques while also accommodating frequent international travel and large dinner parties. The design team successfully blended country charm with modern city influences through careful layering of colors, patterns, and vintage pieces. The project addressed several key challenges, including maximizing natural light in what was initially a dark space. This was achieved by enlarging the door between the kitchen and dining room to create a more linked ground floor layout. Additionally, a glazed partition was introduced between the front door and the sitting room, allowing for separate entrance area treatment while ensuring maximum light penetration. This partition enabled the creation of a statement entrance with bold-colored paneling and Victorian-style tiled flooring. In the front room, seating was optimized with a custom-designed sofa featuring angled sides to fit snugly into the bay window. The kitchen exemplifies the successful integration of country aesthetics without being overly traditional. It boasts a lived-in feel with personality and charm, featuring collected pieces rather than an overly curated look. The color scheme plays a crucial role in balancing the country and city styles; a deep red on the kitchen island, pantry storage, and range cooker grounds the warm neutral cabinetry, adding playfulness and interest. A subtle pop of pale lime green on the door trim further distinguishes the space from a standard neutral kitchen. The design team chose this green to complement the garden view, deeming black metal too harsh. A key functional addition to the kitchen was a pantry, despite limited space. The designers noted that incorporating this element required careful planning, but the final result was highly satisfying. The use of vibrant colors extends to the home office, where bold red bookshelves are contrasted with a traditional family portrait above a reclaimed fireplace. This deliberate juxtaposition creates a playful yet balanced aesthetic, preventing the ornate artwork from overwhelming the smaller room and ensuring a contemporary feel alongside antique elements. In the main bedroom, a more muted color palette is employed, but interest is maintained through vintage furniture and layered patterns. The walls were kept neutral with warm undertones, allowing vibrant accessories and furniture to stand out. The successful mixing of patterns in this space is attributed to varying the scale of the prints, ensuring they harmonize rather than compete. This approach results in a subtle yet engaging visual texture. Throughout the entire project, the interplay of bold colors like red, lime green, dark blue, and mustard yellow, alongside layered prints, demonstrates how these elements can create livable spaces. The design achieves a delicate balance where colors sometimes reflect the urban setting and other times contribute to the rural ambiance, making the home a true homage to country living within the city. #InteriorDesign #LondonHome #CountryStyle #CityLiving #HowarkDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #ColorPalette #VintageFurniture

This article highlights an Atlanta home in the Buckhead neighborhood, designed by Lyndsy Woods, that masterfully blends traditional architectural elements with modern touches and antique furnishings. The home, a new construction with Georgian architectural influences, was designed to incorporate classical features on the interior while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere suitable for a family with two young children. Lyndsy Woods worked with the family from the building stage, allowing her to understand their daily life and tailor the home's design to their specific needs and how they would utilize each space. The design approach focused on creating a soft, neutral shell with muted wall colors like Benjamin Moore York Gray (tinted at 50% strength) and White Dove for trim. This neutral backdrop ensures that the layered fabrics and furnishings, including the family's collection of antique pieces, are highlighted rather than overwhelmed. Built-in elements are kept tone-on-tone to avoid distraction. Even in more formal areas such as the dining room and family room, the aim was to evoke warmth and welcome. A key aspect of Woods's design philosophy, as detailed in the article, is the successful integration of formal and informal items. She avoids the heavy, museum-like feel that can result from too many antiques by pairing them with cleaner, modern elements. This mixing of styles creates a collected and unique aesthetic, preventing the space from feeling overly structured or stuffy. An example cited is the use of modern print fabrics in the dining room alongside gilded antiques, with a light background to tie everything together. The designer prefers cooler wall tones to balance the warmer, often reddish undertones of antique woods, thus toning down golden hues and creating a fresher look. Her personal style leans towards clean lines but with soft, livable palettes and rich textures. Specific rooms are showcased, illustrating this blend: the living room features a custom light fixture by Solaria Lighting and a linen sofa from Lee Industries, chosen for its timeless silhouette and adaptability to new looks with different pillows. The classic white kitchen is equipped with Walker Zanger tiles, Visual Comfort lighting, and Ballard Designs barstools. A butler's pantry is adorned with antiqued-mirror walls and a small sink for convenience. The family room continues the theme with Benjamin Moore's York Gray walls, an Aidan Gray chandelier, and an antique table. The dining room boasts Schumacher fabric on window treatments and upholstered chairs, with a Hickory Chair table, and a touch of pink adds a modern accent to the antique setting. The master bedroom, designed to feel like an upscale hotel suite, is furnished with antiques and features walls painted in a tinted version of Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter. The master bathroom is elevated with luxurious Duralee fabric window treatments, soft green shades, an abstract painting, and custom his-and-her vanities. The powder room is enlivened with Farrow & Ball wallpaper. The article concludes by emphasizing the home's welcoming nature and its beauty as a family residence, crediting designer Lyndsy Woods for her award-winning work and Marc Mauldin for the photography. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AntiqueModernMix #LuxuryHomes #AtlantaRealEstate #LyndsyWoodsDesign #HomeFeatures #BuckheadHomes

Boston, with its historical architecture, including red brick brownstones and Georgian-style structures, offers a rich source of inspiration for design enthusiasts. The Beacon Hill neighborhood, particularly known for its Federal-style rowhouses and cobblestone streets, is highlighted as a prime example of the city's architectural charm. This area is home to unique home décor shops and accommodations that blend old-world charm with modern aesthetics. One notable destination is Koo de Kir, a home décor shop on Chestnut Street. The shop's name, a phonetic play on the French "Coup de Coeur," signifies an item that captivates. The owner curates a selection of unique items, aiming to offer products that are distinctive and memorable. Among the favored items mentioned are the Lotus Nesting Bowls, which are popular during wedding season, indicating their appeal as gifts or household additions. Adjacent to Koo de Kir is another recommended shop, Good, which offers a broader range of lifestyle accessories, encompassing both fashion and home goods. Its inventory includes antiques, works of art, and vintage accessories, suggesting a focus on curated and unique finds for those seeking distinctive pieces for their personal style or living spaces. For an immersive experience in Beacon Hill, the Charles Street Inn is suggested as a lodging option. This inn is characterized by its quiet and cozy ambiance, combined with an old-world flair. Each room is individually named after historical Beacon Hill residents, such as John Singer Sargent or Ralph Waldo Emerson, adding a historical touch. A key feature of the inn is the presence of authentic 1860 marble working fireplaces in every room, contributing to its charm and historical authenticity. Beyond traditional design, the article explores the contemporary design integration seen at the Liberty Hotel, located at the periphery of Beacon Hill. This hotel exemplifies how Boston marries its historical heritage with modern design and an energetic nightlife. Originally the Charles Street Jail, completed in 1851, the hotel's recent renovation respectfully incorporated elements of the original structure and its former purpose, creating an innovative and modern space. Its nightclub, Alibi, and restaurant, Clink, are highlighted as popular venues, partly due to their interior design, which creatively reinterprets the building's history. The article concludes by emphasizing Boston's ability to offer an exciting and inspiring experience for design aficionados, challenging any perception of the city as overly traditional or "stuffy." It showcases Boston as a city where historical elegance and contemporary design coexist and inspire. #BostonInteriorDesign #BeaconHill #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalInspiration #BoutiqueShopping #LuxuryTravel #HistoricalRenovation #LifestyleAccessories

The article describes the transformation of a 24th-floor penthouse at the Alagon on Bayshore, spearheaded by luxury designer Rob Bowen. The design approach, termed “high gloss meets high fashion,” draws inspiration from fashion houses, Parisian salons, and cinematic interiors. The four-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence is conceived to function as both a comfortable family home and an impressive venue for entertaining. The design incorporates panoramic views of Tampa Bay from the primary suite and salon, utilizing minimal drapery and strategic lighting to blend the exterior with the interior. The foundational aesthetic of the penthouse is a high-contrast black and white palette, which is then overlaid with vibrant jewel tones such as magenta, eggplant, and emerald, along with gold accents to introduce dramatic flair. A significant technical hurdle during the project involved applying black lacquer on a large scale, a process where even minor imperfections could compromise the intended smooth finish. The interior features custom lighting fixtures by Gabriel Scott and Lindsay Adelman, which serve a dual purpose as functional lighting and sculptural art pieces. Textural depth and visual interest are achieved through various elements, including flocked houndstooth wallcovering, shimmering Lucite panels, woven metal drapery in the salon, and glass bead wallpaper with a gold-leaf overlay. Among the various meticulously designed spaces, the rotunda stands out as Bowen's personal favorite, characterized by its dramatic architectural presence, custom marble floors, and glossy black walls. Despite the opulent design elements, a key objective was to create a home that authentically reflects the clients' personalities while maintaining both livability and a visually unforgettable atmosphere. Specific areas of the penthouse are detailed further. The kitchen features a black and white scheme with bronze accents on columns and backsplashes, complemented by white cabinets from T2theS Design + Build. A handmade Gabriel Scott chandelier, an eggplant Minotti sofa, and kitchen stools upholstered in a kelly-green crocodile pattern add distinctive touches. In the dining room, an acrylic room divider by T2theS, designed to mimic waves, helps minimize visual distractions. This space is furnished with magenta Kyle Bunting Hide-upholstered chairs surrounding a Baxter table, all illuminated by a Lindsay Adelman chandelier. The salon offers stunning waterfront views framed by woven metal curtains, featuring a gold leather and black velvet Holly Hunt sofa, a Gabriel Scott chandelier, and a custom Kyle Bunting rug. The black, white, and gold theme extends into the primary bathroom, which boasts SICIS mosaic flooring and a custom T2theS makeup vanity with bronze and crystal hardware. The his-and-hers closets in the primary bedroom showcase French white oak flooring, stained black and sealed. His closet includes black lacquer drawers and hide wallcovering, while hers features a Maya Romanoff glass-beaded wallcovering with gold leaf accents. The primary bedroom itself incorporates the same beaded and gold leaf wallcovering, an upholstered faux-chinchilla headboard, a Bernhardt bed, a Mongolian lamb rug, and two Bernhardt nightstands, all contributing to the cohesive and luxurious design narrative. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #RobBowenDesign #PenthouseDesign #TampaBay #HighFashionInteriors #CustomLighting #TexturalDesign

Interior designer Lexi Brandfon of Lex & Hudson undertook a project to refresh and furnish a freestanding early 20th-century Edwardian house in Ditmas Park for its new homeowners. The residence, despite its age, was in excellent condition, featuring well-maintained mechanical systems, recently updated kitchen and bathrooms, and original wood flooring. However, the clients found the abundant vintage woodwork overwhelming, prompting a design approach aimed at toning down these elements while introducing a more contemporary aesthetic. Brandfon's design philosophy prioritizes creating a warm atmosphere that respects the existing architecture, avoiding sterile or overly delicate spaces. A key inspiration for the interior scheme was the clients' affinity for the William Morris Snakeshead wallpaper pattern, dating back to 1876. The chosen green colorway of this wallpaper informed the decision to use forest green for the paneled walls in the dining room, while its warm neutral tones guided the selection of furniture throughout the house. To bridge the gap between the home's historic character and modern furnishings, Brandfon incorporated traditional elements like vintage rugs, which also served to introduce additional color into the scheme. The inclusion of accessories on open shelving, leather chairs, and existing architectural details such as wood and brick further contributed to the overall warmth of the space. The living room, measuring 27 feet in length and featuring two bay windows, presented a particular design challenge. Brandfon addressed this by conceptualizing the space as two distinct yet cohesive areas. The front portion of the living room was designated as a more formal seating area, highlighted by a ventless fireplace set within a Tadelakt plaster wall, serving as a central focal point. The section closer to the kitchen was designed as a more casual game and reading area, equipped with deep lounge seating from Four Hands. The intention was to create a convivial environment conducive to conversation, achieved through furniture placements like a curved sofa from Lee Industries, comfortable leather chairs, and a daybed from Croft House strategically positioned to facilitate interaction across the room. Practical additions included a newly upholstered window seat near the entry, complemented by a custom built-in designed to store coats, boxes, boots, and umbrellas, thereby managing clutter near the main entrance. New custom millwork was also incorporated, such as a unit with both open and closed storage, enhancing the functionality of the area surrounding the central staircase. In the dining room, an asymmetrical modern light fixture from Fair Design, a vintage table from Somerset House, and upholstered chairs from Bo Concept contributed to its aesthetic. For the kitchen, Lex & Hudson designed a mobile island on casters with an engineered stone top, offering versatility for use as a buffet in the dining area or even on the back deck, catering to the clients' entertaining needs. The primary bedroom was furnished with lamps from OKA and nightstands from Serena & Lily, while a West Elm nightstand in the teenage daughter's bedroom was revitalized with purple paint for a vibrant touch. #interiorDesign #homeRenovation #EdwardianArchitecture #customMillwork #DitmasPark #BrooklynHomes #LexAndHudson #vintageModern #furnishings

The article details the transformation of a Bridgehampton, New York, Hamptons home by architects Timothy Haynes and interior designer Kevin Roberts. The property, initially purchased 12 years prior by a New York businessman, was a five-acre estate near the ocean and the town of Bridgehampton. He had previously renovated the mid-1990s house with interior designer Victoria Hagan, streamlining its postmodern architecture into a comfortable beachside retreat for himself and his two sons. This earlier renovation, featuring a blue-and-white scheme, was prominently featured on the cover of ELLE DECOR in 2002. The current renovation was prompted by the homeowner's remarriage, necessitating a redesign to accommodate his new wife and her 10-year-old daughter. The couple initially engaged Haynes and Roberts for a partial renovation, including the kitchen and master bath. However, as their family grew and their entertaining needs expanded, a more extensive overhaul became necessary. The wife, a fashionista and museum patron with a strong design aesthetic, desired to infuse the home with her personal style, incorporating contemporary art, vibrant colors, vintage and antique furnishings, and a touch of glamour. A primary goal was to create a dining room capable of hosting 25 people for large family gatherings like Thanksgiving. Significant structural and landscape changes were implemented. The existing tennis court, which obstructed views and was unused by the couple, was removed along with the original swimming pool. Haynes and Roberts collaborated with Manhattan-based landscape architect Edmund Hollander, who had designed the property's initial garden, to create an ambitious new landscape plan. This included a new saltwater pool inspired by a Slim Aarons photograph, featuring limestone steps cascading into the water. Hollander also designed garden walks bordered with Japanese holly, green velvet boxwood, masses of hydrangeas, lilacs, peonies, and roses. A new poolhouse was constructed with two wings: one for a changing room and sauna, and the other featuring a chic bar and lounge with a white-and-blue circle-patterned marble floor. These wings frame an outdoor dining pavilion, complemented by a gravel-lined garden and a bosque of plane trees. The main house underwent extensive modifications, including the expansion of rooms and the lifting of ceilings to enhance the sense of space and ease. In the master bedroom, a wall with a Juliet balcony was replaced with expansive windows overlooking the garden, and a previously underutilized terrace was converted into an enclosed sitting room. The homeowners were deeply involved in every design decision, from fixtures to furniture selections. The living room was reimagined as the home's social hub. Haynes and Roberts raised its gabled ceiling to 20 feet and doubled the space with an addition featuring a wall of windows and French doors. The interior decor of the living room includes oversized white leather cocktail tables, ample seating, and a vintage Harvey Probber tufted sofa, which Roberts divided into two sections to face the garden. The design philosophy emphasized functionality and comfort, ensuring that every piece of furniture invited relaxation. A notable artistic element is a faceted mirror sculpture by Doug Aitken above the striped marble mantel, spelling out the word “more,” reflecting the wife’s preference for a touch of extravagance. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #HamptonsStyle #LuxuryHomes #LandscapeArchitecture #ContemporaryArt #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalTransformation #SeasideLiving

This article explores a historic 1920s double-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of New York City, which served as the 47th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House. The clients purchased the entire building after attending the show house, initiating a gut renovation led by Francis Nicdao, principal designer and chief creative officer of Pembrooke & Ives, and Stephanie Sarkies-Schabot, the firm's managing director of decorating. The renovation, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to create a family home capable of displaying a vast, museum-quality art and antique collection without feeling overly formal. The design achieved a balance between contemporary cleanliness and traditional detailing, respecting the building's historical character. The entryway features checkerboard marble flooring and a spectacular spiral staircase connecting five of the six levels, designed to facilitate a smooth transition to vertical living. The living room, expansive due to the home's double-wide layout, is furnished with collectible design pieces and art, creating a grand and impactful atmosphere. Gold accents add a glamorous edge to a soft color palette. The combined breakfast and family room functions as the home's hub, with a custom back-to-back sofa dividing dining and lounge areas. This space, which opens into the kitchen, incorporates rich textures and blue hues, overlooked by Ralph Goings's artwork, _Tom’s Diner_. The kitchen, located on the entry floor, was designed for high functionality and ease of maintenance, with easily cleanable surfaces and ample counter space. Its blue island and barstools create a cohesive connection with the adjacent breakfast room. The wine cellar and wet bar, located in the basement and dining room respectively, demonstrate that even lower-level spaces can be glamorous, featuring specialty lighting for the wine display and a high-gloss blue paint with a mirrored backsplash in the wet bar. The primary suite, one of seven bedrooms, offers a dreamy ambiance with pink details and natural light enhancing its glow. The unique layout connects the bedroom to a walk-in closet and bathroom through a windowed corridor along the back facade. A guest bedroom provides a relaxing retreat with a neutral color palette, plush carpeting, embroidered drapery, a custom upholstered headboard, and a high-gloss wall finish. The primary bathroom integrates decorative lighting as a focal point, with a stunning chandelier and sconces, alongside symmetrical design and stone detailing for a luxurious and modern feel. Finally, the backyard patio, designed by landscape architect Luciano Guibbilei, serves as a “zen-like enclave” in the city, covering approximately 1,500 square feet and featuring a mural by artist Annie Morris, providing a serene outdoor escape. #NewYorkCity #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HistoricPreservation #ArtCollection #PembrookeAndIves #KipsBayShowHouse #HomeDecor

Amy Mitchell, a New Hampshire-based interior designer and owner of Home Glow Design, discusses her unconventional path into the design industry and her unique business approach centered around the concept of a 'forever home.' Initially pursuing a career as an opera singer, Mitchell transitioned through PR and marketing before discovering her passion for interior design, inspired by her childhood home's emphasis on quality and lasting design. Her parents, despite a blue-collar budget, invested in well-made furniture, instilling in her a belief that one's environment significantly impacts emotional well-being and that thoughtful purchases should endure. Mitchell's personal journey of decorating her own 'forever home' in New Hampshire highlighted a gap in the market: clients who desire quality and character in their interiors but aren't looking to spend exorbitant amounts or engage in frequent, trendy makeovers. She observed that many homeowners, particularly those in their 30s and 40s in her region, become disillusioned with disposable furniture as their families grow. These clients are ready to invest wisely but often lack the guidance to create cohesive, high-quality spaces. This realization led her to establish Home Glow Design, catering to this mid-priced market segment. Her services are designed to help clients make informed, long-term decisions about their homes. One notable offering is the 'Forever Home Road Map,' an online consultation service. This program helps clients align their personal style with their home's architectural style, especially when the two might seem disparate. It also addresses budget constraints by assisting clients in prioritizing spaces and creating a multi-year spending plan to achieve their design goals without feeling overwhelmed. This approach reflects Mitchell's own experience of renovating her home room by room over several years, guided by a clear vision. The Road Map aims to provide clients with a solid foundation and initial ideas for their priority spaces, enabling them to confidently tackle subsequent rooms. Mitchell also offers 'Forever Room Design Master Plans,' which she describes as a more personalized version of e-design, moving beyond the 'cookie-cutter' aesthetic often associated with such services. She emphasizes sourcing from a diverse range of suppliers, including trade brands and online resources, and provides detailed presentations and source lists. For clients who prefer hands-on project management, this service offers comprehensive guidance. For those seeking a fully managed experience, her 'Full-Service Design' option handles all aspects of a project. Operating in a rural New Hampshire setting presents unique challenges, such as limited access to design centers and manufacturer representatives. Mitchell compensates for this by relying on self-education, networking with metropolitan designers, and her blog, 'The Saturday Blog.' The blog, which she consistently updated for four years, has been instrumental in establishing her authority, sharing tips on investing in quality, and fostering a 'forever mentality' among readers. She uses it to address common homeowner dilemmas, such as updating knotty pine paneling without erasing a home's history, encouraging readers to balance personal style with architectural integrity. Mitchell also navigates the local 'Yankee frugality' mindset, where people often prioritize cost-saving over quality or aesthetic appeal. She combats this by emphasizing the long-term value of investing in durable, well-designed pieces and the positive impact a thoughtfully curated home has on emotional well-being. She advises clients to overcome 'money guilt' associated with discarding old, unloved items, viewing such decisions as sunk costs that free them to create a home they truly enjoy. Her pricing model, involving an hourly rate and a markup on products, is explained as a way to provide clients with high-quality results within their budget, while also covering the inherent risks and administrative efforts involved in sourcing and managing design elements. She reflects on her personal growth, prioritizing her family life and client satisfaction over an endless pursuit of more credentials or industry accolades, finding contentment in helping clients create homes they love. #InteriorDesign #HomeGlowDesign #ForeverHome #NewHampshireDesign #DesignBusiness #Edesign #HomeRenovation #YankeeFrugality

Architect James Davies, founder of Paper House Project, undertook an ambitious endeavor to convert a derelict former schoolhouse in Hackney, London, into his personal two-bedroom residence. This challenging project, completed by October 2022, transformed a dilapidated brick structure into a high-ceilinged, concrete-floored home, showcasing Davies' vision and determination. The site presented significant hurdles, including being landlocked, lacking existing utility services, and navigating complex access negotiations with surrounding freeholders and leaseholders. Davies described these issues as challenges rather than obstacles, requiring immense patience and unwavering confidence to resolve, including extending new electric and water connections via a 90-meter trench across third-party land. Davies' architectural approach focused on restoring the original brick envelope of the building while implementing a modern interior design. He collaborated with engineers to minimize visible structural elements, thereby maximizing the double-height spaces and enhancing the sense of openness. A key design feature is the incorporation of new gridded steel-frame windows and an inner courtyard, which together flood the interiors with natural light and create a unique sense of volume, uncommon in typical London homes. Davies noted that the abundant natural light, height, and volume significantly contribute to mood and well-being, emphasizing the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the internal courtyard, which helps to create a serene environment despite the property's proximity to busy Hackney high streets. The interior aesthetic draws inspiration from industrial and warehouse conversions, influenced by notable structures such as the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, Liverpool's Albert Docks, and the warehouse living styles prevalent in New York City. Davies consciously selected a limited palette of materials, predominantly concrete and steel surfaces, to achieve a smooth, stylized industrial look throughout the home. This choice of materials, combined with elements like a black marble splash-back, oak veneer door fronts, and a spruce-paneled staircase, introduces contrasting materialities that add depth and character to the design. Practical solutions were devised to overcome site access limitations, such as fabricating large components off-site and ensuring they were light enough to be manually carried through the courtyard by two people. Steel A-frame trusses with cable rod connections were ingeniously embedded to support the new slate roof, demonstrating innovative structural solutions. The downstairs living spaces are subtly divided by the staircase, maintaining an open feel while delineating functional areas. Wooden interior panels are strategically used to soften the white walls, adding warmth to the industrial aesthetic. Davies encapsulated the essence of the house's ambiance with a single word: 'calm', reflecting the successful creation of a tranquil urban dwelling from a complex, derelict site. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #LondonRealEstate #HackneyHome #ConversionProject #IndustrialAesthetic #PaperHouseProject #ArchitecturalRenovation

The evolution of architectural and interior design philosophies for residential spaces demonstrates a significant shift from strict historical preservation to a more integrated approach that respects the past while embracing modern living requirements. Early movements like the heritage movement, championed by figures such as Sir John Betjeman and Gavin Stamp, instigated a radical change in how historic buildings were treated. This era saw passionate conservationists investing heavily in restoring historic houses to their original states, as exemplified by the work in Spitalfields where structures were meticulously restored and furnished to reflect their 18th-century inhabitants. However, contemporary restoration efforts have moved beyond mere historicism. The current trend is to create comfortable homes that, while sympathetic to their historical context, acknowledge the modernist ideal of a house as a 'machine for living in.' This involves a nuanced blending of styles, the incorporation of open-plan layouts, and the strategic use of modern materials such as steel and glass. These advancements facilitate improved natural light, enhanced thermal efficiency, and designs that cater to contemporary lifestyles, often with reduced domestic help requirements. This approach ensures that a house evolves with its occupants and reflects the era in which modifications are made, much like how Regency, Victorian, and Edwardian additions historically enhanced older properties. A growing number of British architects, interior designers, and builders are at the forefront of this movement. Their collective expertise, deep understanding of historic buildings, and commitment to sustainable practices are ushering in what is described as a 'golden age of restoration.' These professionals are adept at balancing the preservation of historical integrity with the integration of modern functionality. Their work includes using natural, breathable, and durable materials, alongside the installation of renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and biomass systems. This not only ensures the longevity and sustainability of the renovated properties but also addresses contemporary environmental concerns. The article highlights the importance of these innovative practitioners and their clients, whose dedication is crucial to the continued success and evolution of this thoughtful approach to home design and restoration. The philosophy extends to viewing the home not just as a static historical artifact but as a dynamic space that adapts to current needs while carrying forward its legacy. This contemporary perspective allows for a conversation between different eras, where each addition or renovation contributes to the building's ongoing story rather than freezing it in a single moment. The skilled professionals in this field are celebrated for their ability to navigate this complex interplay, creating residences that are both historically rich and perfectly suited for modern life. Their efforts underscore a critical understanding that true restoration involves intelligent adaptation, ensuring that homes remain relevant, comfortable, and sustainable for generations to come, moving beyond a purely academic exercise to a practical application of evolving design principles. #HomeRestoration #InteriorDesign #Architecture #HistoricBuildings #SustainableDesign #ModernLiving #BritishDesigners #CountryLife

The article details the collaboration between interior designer Lynn Biase and mixed media artist Jenn Lewis to transform Lewis' new West Harrison home into a vibrant, family-friendly space that seamlessly integrates her distinctive artwork. Lewis, known for her bold, graffiti-style paintings and collages, sought Biase's expertise to create a fun and comfortable environment for herself, her two teenagers, and for hosting social gatherings. Biase had previously worked with Lewis on her former residence, indicating a pre-existing professional relationship built on trust and a shared aesthetic understanding. The design approach prioritized integrating Lewis's artwork, which the artist noted felt organic due to Biase's color choices throughout the home. The house's open layout, high ceilings, and large windows were naturally conducive to displaying art, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Biase employed a 'high/low' design philosophy, combining custom-made elements with existing features and sourced items to achieve a cohesive yet unique look. An example of this is seen in the foyer, where the existing natural grass cloth wallpaper was complemented by a custom graphic stair runner that extends to the upstairs landing, establishing a striking entrance. The upstairs landing was transformed into a dedicated family area, featuring a game table with a built-in chess board to accommodate Lewis's son's hobby. Sculptural accessories from Current Home further adorned the shelving in this space, adding visual interest. In a previously neutral powder room off the foyer, Biase introduced an arched Arteriors mirror and patterned wallpaper by Kelly Wearstler, significantly enhancing its character. The kitchen saw minor yet impactful updates, including a black and brass faucet, modern black hardware, and pendant lights over the island, all contributing to a contemporary feel. Biase also introduced a pop of color with bright yellow chairs in the kitchen's breakfast area, a departure from Lewis's usual preference for grays. This sunny hue was echoed in the adjoining family room through throw pillows, connecting the spaces visually. For comfort, a custom coffee table with a fabric center was designed to match a large cream-colored sofa from RH, fulfilling Lewis's desire for a soft place to relax. The dining room features watercolor-inspired wallpaper from Emma Hayes, which harmonizes with the gray tones of the dining table and light fixture, while Arhaus dining chairs with antique brass accents add a touch of sparkle. The living room's design began with another bold wallpaper selection, complemented by a rust-colored sectional for visual contrast. In Lewis's office, Biase opted for a cool gray paint, providing an ideal backdrop for the artist's work and highlighting the walnut desk and wool patterned rug. A sitting room adjacent to the primary bedroom showcases one of Lewis's paintings of a bookshelf, seemingly custom-made for the space. The overall design successfully brought Lewis's artistic vision into her living environment, creating a home that feels both fresh and welcoming, according to the artist.

A new book titled “Design in the Hamptons,” authored by architectural publisher and art critic Anthony Iannacci, challenges the conventional perceptions of Hamptons estates by showcasing 19 private homes designed by prominent New York architects and interior designers. Set to be released on September 9, this publication delves into residences that defy the typical mega-mansion aesthetic, including a small cottage featuring impressive gardens. Iannacci highlights that the selected homes continue a tradition of talented New York designers creating retreats in the Hamptons that offer a contrast to urban life in Manhattan. He describes this new wave of design as a “treasure trove of residential design,” emphasizing its respect for the Hamptons' renowned landscape. The timing of the book is noted as opportune, coinciding with a significant building boom, allowing it to present contemporary design concepts. Iannacci, who grew up visiting his family's beach cottage in Southampton, stresses that there isn't a single approach to how these homes facilitate living. The author observes a cultural evolution in the design, construction, and furnishing of Hamptons homes, marked by a renewed interest in modernist structures that incorporate traditional elements. He suggests that the pursuit of an authentic Hamptons experience is a personal journey for each homeowner. This approach often translates into living room layouts designed for intimate conversations or strategically placed picture windows framing specific natural features, moving away from generic or mass-produced design. Among the featured properties is the cottage belonging to designers Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper. This home, originally part of the historic Lorenzo and Mary Woodhouse estate, was a carriage house. Upon acquiring the property in 2005, Ingrao and Kemper meticulously recreated the estate's legendary gardens, which had been lost. Despite the cottage's modest size, its expansive and lavish gardens now rival botanical institutions. The designers enhanced the former garage structure with elements like old barn beams and plaster walls, making the garden central to their design vision. They had previously sold a home in Montauk due to its unsuitable conditions for gardening, underscoring their commitment to cultivating the Hamptons property. Their walled-in garden, complete with antique brick walls and a fountain, serves as their primary outdoor living area during the summer, complemented by an adjacent shed used as an outdoor dining room. The pool is also intentionally surrounded by lush plantings to prevent it from dominating the landscape. In stark contrast, the book also features Todd and Lauren Merrill’s modern 1986 home in the Shinnecock Hills of Southampton. Merrill, a designer and antiques dealer, restored the Charles Gwathmey- and Horace Gifford-inspired house to its original, clean lines. He recounted that the house, when purchased two years prior, had been altered with '80s-style decor, including a curved tile backsplash and large murals, which he systematically removed to reveal the underlying architectural integrity. The 9,000-square-foot residence, though structurally sound, had its design diminished by superfluous elements like extra trim and moldings, which Merrill stripped away. Today, the home functions as a “design lab” for Merrill’s collection of mid-century and modern classic furniture, offering ample space and light for displaying his pieces. Architect Russell Groves, currently renovating his own 1970s ranch house in East Hampton, emphasizes the challenge of maintaining simplicity in the often-extravagant Hamptons. For a client’s six-bedroom shingled East Hampton retreat, Groves aimed to maintain the scale reminiscent of 19th-century homes, incorporating modern art and vintage accessories with classic details like wainscoting and wood banisters. Interior designer Suzanne Shaker collaborated with architect Cary Tamarkin on his Shelter Island family residence, constructed from old-growth cypress. The living room features Noguchi Akari pendants and a custom platform sofa, designed to maximize sea views, with clerestory windows operated by customized sailboat cranks. Shaker notes the quieter, less developed nature of Shelter Island compared to the Hamptons, informing their design’s focus on preserving and appreciating nature. Finally, the husband-and-wife design team Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of Roman and Williams transformed a 1970s suburban ranch in Montauk into what they call an “unfinished summer camp.” Their approach involved revealing the structure's bones by removing asbestos paneling and sheetrock, exposing wires, conduits, and ducts, and replacing sheetrock with tambour wood. These design choices have influenced their commercial projects, such as the café at Facebook’s headquarters and the Standard High Line hotel. The overall message conveyed by the book is that the ideal Hamptons escape is defined by personal happiness and authenticity, rather than size or adherence to fleeting trends. #HamptonsDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernistHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #GardenDesign #CoastalLiving #DesignBook #NewYorkDesigners

The Orchard House is a private extension and renovation project located within the Wickham Conservation Area, completed in the summer of 2021 by AR Design Studio. The project involved replacing previous piecemeal developments to reorient the house towards its garden. This renovation is situated in Hampshire, United Kingdom, and covers an area of 320 square feet, completed in 2020. Martin Gardner provided the photography for the project. The architectural design was led by Andy Ramus, with Tom Ford serving as the architectural designer. Structural engineering services were provided by AWA. Dell Developments acted as the general contractor for the project. The materials used in the renovation include wood, glass, and brick, contributing to a modern aesthetic while respecting the conservation area's context. The design aimed to create a more integrated living space that capitalizes on the connection with the outdoor environment. The project falls under the categories of houses and renovation, highlighting the transformation of an existing structure into a more functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The reorientation of the house towards its garden suggests a focus on natural light, views, and an improved indoor-outdoor flow, common objectives in contemporary residential architecture and renovation projects. The use of specific manufacturers such as Russwood, Smart Systems, Vande Moortel, and Velfac indicates a selection of quality materials and systems for various components of the house, including windows, doors, and other structural or finishing elements. The context of the Wickham Conservation Area implies that the design adhered to specific guidelines and regulations to preserve the historical and architectural character of the locality. This often involves careful consideration of external materials, building massing, and how new additions integrate with the existing fabric and surrounding environment. The project's success in achieving its goals within such a sensitive area underscores the expertise of AR Design Studio in balancing modern design with historical preservation. Overall, The Orchard House represents a thoughtful renovation that revitalizes a residential property by improving its layout, enhancing its connection to the garden, and utilizing contemporary architectural solutions within a conservation-sensitive setting. The project showcases how modern extensions can breathe new life into older homes, creating functional and visually appealing spaces that meet the needs of contemporary living while respecting their historical and environmental context. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #ARDesignStudio #UnitedKingdom #Hampshire #ConservationArea #ModernDesign #BuildingMaterials