Photos: My Favorite Room: Dichen Lachman adds old-fashioned character to a modern floor plan

This article details the transformation of a mid-century home's adjoining living and dining rooms into a space infused with traditional European style and sophistication. The homeowners, Zoe and Lorne, passionate about European culture and travel, sought to move beyond the previous owners' dated style, which included a predominance of pink hues. Their primary goal was to create an elegant yet comfortable environment suitable for both their lifestyle and entertaining friends, prioritizing conversation over electronic entertainment. The redesign began by addressing the existing issues of outdated colors, furnishings, and a complete lack of integrated lighting. The initial color palette of the rooms was a bubblegum pink in the living room and a dull tan in the dining room. These were replaced with a more refined and traditional scheme: a neutral shade for the living room walls and a deep, lush teal for the dining room. The chosen colors were light celadon, dark teal, gentle beige, and rich wood, forming a cohesive and sophisticated foundation for the new design. Material selection focused on tactile and textured fabrics, including luxurious velvets, smooth chenilles, and delicate silks, adding depth and sensory richness to the space. In the living room, a vibrant area rug incorporating all the palette's colors was introduced. New furniture pieces were strategically placed, such as a high-back, celery-colored sofa with tufted detailing, a bar and media cabinet, and several neutral-colored armchairs, complemented by a dark chocolate ottoman. The existing fireplace was retained, but its surround was enhanced with inset panels of glass-beaded wallpaper, adding a touch of elegance and visual interest. A unique solution was devised for audio, aligning with the couple's desire for a conversation-centric space without prominent electronics. Two framed speakers were disguised with sound-permeable fabric featuring images from the couple's European travels. A small stereo unit was discreetly hidden within the bar/media cabinet, ensuring ambient music could be enjoyed without visual clutter. The dining room's existing table was integrated into the new design, augmented by new side chairs and upholstered head chairs in neutral fabrics. A stunning dark wood sideboard was added, along with a feature wall adorned with wood-framed mirrors arranged in a distinctive pattern, further contributing to the European aesthetic. Addressing the significant lighting deficiency, extensive electrical work was undertaken. Ceiling medallions were installed in both rooms to provide anchor points for European-inspired chandeliers—a six-arm fixture in the dining room and a smaller four-arm fixture in the living room. Additionally, two sconces were placed on either side of the fireplace, and numerous recessed lights were installed throughout both rooms, ensuring ample and varied illumination. To enhance architectural detail, various moldings were added to the archway connecting the two rooms, to the doors, and around the fireplace. These layers of molding were crucial in creating a sense of uniqueness and cohesiveness between the spaces, tying the entire design together. The final touches included a selection of accessories that harmonized with the rich colors, elegant furnishings, and dramatic lighting, culminating in a living/dining area that truly embodies an old-world European charm. The completed design successfully transformed the bland, outdated rooms into a stylish and comfortable environment, allowing Zoe and Lorne to experience a "divine" European ambiance without leaving their home. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecoration #EuropeanStyle #TraditionalDesign #LivingRoomDesign #DiningRoomDesign #HomeRenovation #LightingDesign #TextileSelection

The article details the transformation of a 2,200-square-foot condominium in Chelsea, Manhattan, into a flexible and aesthetically cohesive living space, orchestrated by Lee Mindel and Peter Shelton of Shelton, Mindel & Associates. The client, a Minneapolis-based CEO of an international investment firm, sought a minimalist yet sophisticated pied-à-terre that could accommodate both his solitary living and visits from his two young sons. The apartment, originally a three-bedroom unit in a converted early 20th-century office building, presented several design challenges, including an intrusive architectural layout with aggressive walls and a lack of flow, failing to capitalize on its significant views of the Hudson and East rivers and the lower Manhattan skyline. Shelton and Mindel's approach focused on "undoing" architectural elements to create an expansive, unified space. They began by removing a wall between the living room and an adjacent narrow bedroom, allowing for a seamless flow between the living/dining area and the open-plan kitchen. To further enhance simplicity and openness, a uniform ceiling height was implemented, and closet doors were redesigned to appear more loft-like. Sliding wood panels were installed between the master bedroom and the guest room/children's room to provide flexibility. Radiator cabinets were integrated into the design under the windows, and large-scale custom rugs, along with raw-silk draperies, were used to define and refine the room's dimensions, giving it a sharp, clean finish. A key aspect of the design philosophy was to anchor the rooms with robust modernist furniture, selected for its quality and ability to impart a sense of order, structure, and strength without overwhelming the space. The furniture, sourced from various European countries and the United States, includes distinctive pieces such as a 1920s Fritz Henningsen leather armchair, a 1940s Fontana Arte coatrack, a 1950s Jean Prouvé console, and a 1950s Carlo Scarpa sconce in the entrance hall. The living room features a 1950s Poul Kjaerholm daybed, Børge Mogensen leather-and-birch chairs, and a Kjaerholm sofa upholstered in French postal cloth, alongside contemporary pieces designed by Shelton and Mindel. Art plays a significant role, with works like Richard Prince's cowboy photograph and Matthew Barney's 'Cremaster 3: Plumb Line' integrated into the living space. The dining area is furnished with a 1950s Prouvé Granito dining table and Børge Mogensen wicker dining chairs, illuminated by a 1970s Verner Panton acrylic sphere. The guest room/children's room features 1940s Prouvé compass desks and a trundle bed designed by the architects. The master bedroom includes a 1940s Jacques Adnet armchair, a 1950s Charlotte Perriand bedside table, and a custom headboard of natural hemp and black horsehair, complemented by a 1940s Josef Frank armoire and Richard Prince's photographic triptych. The design aimed to create a tranquil yet dynamic environment, where the volume, light, and carefully curated furnishings coalesce to give the condominium a strong sense of place, a rarity in condo conversions, achieving a harmonious balance that was met with universal approval. #InteriorDesign #ModernistFurniture #ManhattanApartment #ArchitecturalRenovation #SheltonMindelAssociates #LuxuryLiving #ContemporaryArt #SpacePlanning #CustomDesign

The article presents 12 home decor ideas inspired by a remodelled 1938 home in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, designed by Dacotah Studio, a firm run by husband-and-wife team Shawn and Tina Taylor. The designers aimed to create a timeless and effortlessly put-together aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Yucatan/Tulum region of Mexico, emphasizing earthy and natural materials. The remodel transformed a dated home with features like "boob lighting" and yellow walls into a serene and tailored sanctuary. Key design elements and ideas highlighted include the integration of '70s Modern style, exemplified by classic modern sofas in a vibrant orange hue. The designers advise using trends in easily changeable elements like rugs, artwork, and accent chairs, rather than permanent fixtures like countertops and tiles. Sculptural lamps are identified as impactful art pieces, with examples provided from high-end designers and more affordable alternatives. The flooring incorporates a transition from porcelain in the kitchen to maple wood throughout the rest of the home, utilizing lighter natural woods with stucco and stone to define spaces. The article also features the enduring appeal of Wishbone Chairs, noting their classic design and ability to remain stylish over time. Maple cabinets in the kitchen contribute to a natural look while being cost-effective. The design emphasizes outdoor living, with a seamless transition from the kitchen to the outdoors, maximizing natural light and facilitating outdoor entertaining. The choice of rope-backed bar stools and specific pendant lighting adds to the Tulum-inspired ambiance. Further ideas include the use of warm bedding, with organic sheets from Morrow Goods suggested as an upgrade from cooler tones. Built-in shelves are reimagined with a sleek, curved maple design, offering functional elegance. Bath planters are introduced as a way to bring nature indoors, enhancing self-care spaces with clean-air plants, complemented by unique zig-zag tiling. Terrazzo flooring is showcased for its speckled colors and ability to add an unexpected, yet serene, design element. Finally, brass accents, particularly a brass bath towel bar inside the shower, are noted for creating a spa-like feeling, along with ceramic vases for decorative touches. Asymmetry in decor, demonstrated by an organic brass mirror and clay pendants, reflects the natural principle of avoiding sharp corners, as articulated by architect Antonio Gaudi. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeRemodel #LAdesign #DacotahStudio #DecorTrends #ModernDesign #TulumInspired #SustainableDesign

The concept of an "aesthetic room" is gaining considerable traction, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, characterized by an emphasis on personal expression and current trends in interior design. This style embraces diverse elements such as lush greenery, including live plants and faux vines; a palette of muted colors featuring neutrals and soft pinks; and distinctive lighting options like LED strands and string lights. The term "aesthetic" in this context refers to attractive room styles that incorporate on-trend personal touches, allowing individuals to celebrate their unique tastes. Popular aesthetic designs span a wide range, from the rustic charm of cottagecore to indie, postmodern, vintage, and minimalist styles, all unified by their focus on individuality and contemporary appeal. Achieving an aesthetic room involves several key decorative strategies. Incorporating calming pink tones through accent walls or bedding can introduce warmth, while plants, displayed on floating shelves or as dried pampas grass, add natural elements and texture. Candles, whether real or battery-operated, are essential for creating ambiance. Custom wall collages, crafted from magazine cutouts or personal photos, offer a budget-friendly way to personalize a space, especially when adhering to a cohesive color scheme. Faux plant vines draped across beds or windows contribute to a dreamy atmosphere, often paired with garden-themed bedding. Natural scents, like fresh eucalyptus, can further enhance the sensory experience of the room. Texture and pattern play a crucial role in aesthetic design. Mixing different textures, such as sheepskin pillows, feathered pendant lights, and quilted bedding, adds depth and elevation. Similarly, incorporating varied patterns can introduce visual interest. Neon signs provide a modern, customized touch, allowing for personal messages or quotes. Moon-themed decor, like garlands or gallery walls, is another common feature. Vibrant colors can be introduced through bedspreads or accent walls, creating cheerful focal points. Optimizing space, especially in smaller bedrooms, is also part of the aesthetic approach. Utilizing corners for small shelves or plants, and employing windowsills for displays of books or decorative items, maximizes functionality and style. Maintaining a modern white room with woven hanging plants offers a zen, minimalist appeal. Macrame and textured wallpaper can be used to add coziness and visual interest to neutral palettes. Layering various lighting sources, including table lamps and string lights, creates a warm and inviting ambiance without harsh overhead glare. Personalization extends to unique headboards, such as photo walls adorned with string lights and clips, and simple motivational phrases. Neutral color schemes remain popular, with emphasis on varying shapes, heights, and textures to keep the space engaging. Unexpected elements like fans repurposed as art, or vanity mirrors wrapped in string lights, add character. DIY brick features or stained brick can introduce texture and warmth, while disco balls offer an affordable retro sparkle. Soft furnishings like cushions, layered pillows, and knit rugs enhance comfort and invite relaxation. Beyond specific items, aesthetic rooms prioritize warm lighting to create a magical atmosphere. Embracing "juicy" colors and mixing patterns in textiles can result in a welcoming and eclectic space. For those preferring simplicity, a minimalist approach with bare walls, natural shadows, and industrial light fixtures can be highly aesthetic. Growing plants overhead or combining vines with white lights creates stunning, dream-inducing displays. Rattan accents, faux palm leaves, and simple tray tables contribute to a carefree, casual look. Layering garlands above the bed, featuring moon phases and twinkly lights, further enhances a personalized headboard. The overall ethos is one of carefreeness and individuality, often inspired by indie music and culture. Finally, the aesthetic can extend to specific design eras. Rustic aesthetics utilize natural materials and aged wood, while romantic bed canopies fashioned from unique fabrics add a creative touch. Vintage aesthetics, drawing from bygone eras, incorporate thrifted mirrors and retro pieces, spanning styles from boho to midcentury modern. Postmodern aesthetics, influenced by the 1970s and 80s, embrace bold, eclectic colors and sculptural furniture, often featuring wild neon or metallic prints. These diverse approaches highlight the versatility and personal nature of aesthetic room design. #AestheticRoom #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BedroomIdeas #TrendySpaces #Cottagecore #MinimalistDesign #VintageStyle #PostmodernDecor