Inside Interior Stylist Olga Naiman's Brooklyn Apartment

Olga Naiman, an interior designer and prop stylist with a background in theatrical set design, showcases how to infuse personality and unique style into a Brooklyn condo, particularly focusing on renter-friendly solutions. Naiman's approach to home decor emphasizes bold aesthetics, distinct color imprints for each room, and the clever layering of patterns and textures. She views her apartment as a dynamic set where each turn reveals a different atmosphere, a philosophy deeply rooted in her theatrical background. One of the primary challenges Naiman addressed was a small bedroom, which she optimized by selecting a low-platform bed to conserve both spatial and visual real estate. She personally crafted a cobalt headboard, demonstrating a DIY approach to achieving a specific design vision. The bedroom is further enhanced by incorporating soft textures, such as a leopard-print pillow, as an affordable method to introduce pattern. Naiman also suggests using a throw to break the monotony of a bedspread, adding a practical and stylish detail. A significant transformation in her apartment involved the kitchen cabinets. Instead of undertaking an extensive and costly renovation, Naiman chose to refresh the existing oak veneer cabinets with a graphic, color-block design featuring silver leaf detailing. This creative solution, inspired by an Art Deco wallpaper she admired at the Museum of Modern Art, allowed her to introduce a high-impact design element on a smaller, more manageable surface. This method not only bypasses the need for a full renovation but also allows for a splurge on a design that might be too expensive for a larger area. Naiman also innovatively addressed wall decor by shifting focus from traditional wall treatments. She curates her bookshelves as "stackable still lifes," using each shelf as a frame for decorative objects. To add depth without painting, she lines selected shelves with graphic wallpaper, leaving others blank to prevent visual clutter. This checkerboard effect guides the eye and provides a renter-friendly way to introduce intricate detail to a wall without permanent alterations. Textiles play a crucial role in Naiman's design strategy, often serving a dual purpose. Eschewing white walls, she drapes vibrant fabrics throughout her home, concealing unsightly surfaces and adding rich textures. Drawing from her Russian heritage, which values luxurious fabrics, particularly silk, she uses curtains to mask 19 feet of closet doors and a wall-mounted television in the bedroom. Naiman recommends using beautiful fabric panels as an alternative to painting, emphasizing that these can be easily removed and repurposed for future residences. In her children's room, Naiman employs primary hues to establish a playful tone. She carved this space out of a formerly one-bedroom apartment. The walls are covered in chalkboard paint, serving as a neutral backdrop and a creative outlet for her twins. By allowing them to draw on the black walls, she integrates their art as the room's primary decorative element, favoring this over complex patterns. This approach ensures the space remains vibrant and personalized while being practical for young children. Finally, Naiman applies the photographic "rule of three," or triangulation, in her living room. This principle dictates that the dominant colors of a chosen palette should appear at three distinct points within a room: high, low, and eye level. She exemplifies this by echoing the turquoise, pink, and blue shades from a painting through her counter stools, lounge chair, and sofa, respectively. This technique creates a cohesive and balanced visual flow, unifying the overall design of the space. #InteriorDesign #RentalDecor #DIYHomeDecor #KitchenRenovationAlternative #ColorTheory #TextileDecor #SmallSpaceDesign #OlgaNaiman

The article offers an exclusive tour of interior designer Marissa Corvino's recently designed Hoboken home, highlighting her design philosophy and the practical application of her aesthetic in a family living space. Corvino Design, founded by Marissa Corvino in Hoboken, NJ, aims to create functional, personalized, and architecturally sound spaces. Her design aesthetic is described as bold yet refined minimalism. The home, a renovated townhome on Garden Street in Hoboken, built in 1901, was partially demolished when purchased, providing Marissa with a unique opportunity to create a modern design from scratch. The residence accommodates Marissa, her husband Frank Corvino, and their three children: Mia, Leonardo, and Grace. It features five bedrooms and five bathrooms. The inspiration behind the decor and renovation draws significantly from architectural giants like Le Corbusier, known for functionalism with bold sculptural details, and Joseph Dirand, who combines minimalism with warmth and fullness. Marissa's goal was to create a space that seamlessly integrates adult and children's daily lives within an urban environment where every inch counts. This involved intentionally keeping the middle of each floor plan open and utilizing arches for structural support to give the illusion of a wider brownstone. A key aspect of the design strategy was to conceal belongings, maintaining a minimal yet full aesthetic. For instance, the parlor floor incorporates recessed open shelves with concealed storage underneath. The playroom is thoughtfully designed with toy storage, two desk areas, and a sofa with a trundle bed, providing dedicated spaces for relaxation, schoolwork, and playdates. Three standout design elements in the home are the Calacatta Viola Marble in the kitchen island from Basstone, the extensive use of plaster by Kamp Studios, and custom furniture crafted by Corvino Design. During the renovation process, an unexpected expense arose with the replacement of the sewer line, which was damaged after the removal of an oil tank. A significant challenge during the project was Marissa's pregnancy halfway through, which necessitated a last-minute modification to the floor plan to incorporate an additional bedroom. Marissa emphasizes that the project aimed to serve as a fresh inspiration for family urban living, demonstrating that a home filled with art, plaster, and marble can still be child-friendly and suitable for cooking and entertaining without constant worry. For those looking to update or redecorate their homes, Marissa offers advice: be patient, invest in quality over quantity, and embrace color. The article provides a detailed room-by-room breakdown of specific pieces, materials, and collaborators involved in the project, including Nicole Franzen for photography and Eve Singer from Broyt for styling. This includes custom pouf sectionals, vintage Vladimir Kagan swivel chairs, Calacatta Vagli fireplace stone, custom entry doors in the living room; NR Wood Design millwork, Studio Henry Wilson hardware, Calacatta Viola island stone, and a LaCanche Sully range in the kitchen; Bas Stone Travertine Navona table and a custom dining bench in the dining room; a vintage mirror, Articolo Lighting sconces, and Petra Grey Marble vanity in the powder room; a custom staircase in the hallway; custom nightstands and bed, Allied Maker sconces in the main bedroom; and NR Wood vanity, Arabascato Corchia stone slab, Watermark plumbing fixtures in the main bathroom. Marissa's closet features G’s Woodworking millwork and Calacatta Viola stone, while the playroom has custom millwork by Corvino Design. #InteriorDesign #HobokenHome #MarissaCorvino #CorvinoDesign #HomeRenovation #MinimalistDesign #FamilyLiving #UrbanLiving #ArchitecturalInspiration #LuxuryInteriors

The article highlights the transformation of a 4,000-square-foot apartment on New York City's Upper East Side, originally characterized as a "blank slate" by designer Nannette Brown. Brown's primary objective was to infuse the modern luxury apartment, which lacked distinctive interior architecture, with character and functionality through the strategic incorporation of niches and recessed areas. The design approach was driven by the desire to maximize every inch of space, a crucial consideration in New York City real estate. Key design elements include a semicircular recessed seating area in the vestibule, clad in zellige tile, and a cashmere-upholstered daybed built into an alcove in the primary bedroom, serving as a lounging spot. A wood-paneled library also features a snug wall niche for displaying sculpture, demonstrating Brown's philosophy of creating functional and visually interesting nooks throughout the home. The apartment owners, a couple with backgrounds in fashion and DJing, sought a "light," "serene," and "modern" aesthetic for their new home, opting to discard all their old furniture for a fresh start. This preference for modernity allowed Brown to diverge from the traditional prewar architecture typical of the neighborhood, leading to significant structural changes. One of the initial alterations involved replacing a vaguely Art Deco metal railing separating the dining area from the sunken living room with a brushed white oak wall, enhancing both materiality and spatial definition. Brown also addressed the living room's lack of a focal point by installing an electric stone fireplace with a matching white oak overmantel. Concealed behind floor-to-ceiling plaster doors adjacent to the fireplace are a bar and buffet, combining aesthetic appeal with practicality. The entry hall, previously featuring plain drywall, was upgraded with a monumental vertical column of honed silver travertine, a material choice intended to evoke a sense of natural emergence from the ground. The vestibule's seating nook was cleverly created by repurposing space from a nearby powder room's deep closet, further illustrating the efficient use of space. Perhaps the most extensive renovation occurred in the apartment's north wing. Originally containing four bedrooms, including the primary suite, Brown reconfigured the space to suit the couple's needs for just two bedrooms. This involved removing two spare bedrooms and a bathroom to create a large oak-paneled library and TV room seamlessly connected to the primary bedroom. The entire wing is demarcated by elegant doors of blackened steel and ribbed glass, designed to appear as an original feature of the apartment. Despite the extensive nine-month renovation, the homeowners expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the seamless integration of all design elements and the continuous pleasure of discovering new details within their reimagined living space. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ManhattanApartment #NannetteBrown #SpaceMaximization #ModernInteriors #ArchitecturalRenovation #LuxuryLiving #CustomDesign

The article showcases the vibrant, color-drenched apartment of interior decorator Ally Doman, founder of New York-based Doman Decors, challenging the prevailing minimalist and neutral design trends. Doman, known for her playful and gorgeously designed spaces for clients, provides a tour of her three-bedroom railroad-style apartment, which she shares with her fiancé. They secured the apartment due to its generous square footage and favorable rent, recognizing its potential despite its initial outdated and damaged condition. The apartment required significant renovation, including addressing bare subfloors, cracked tiling, and old kitchen appliances. Doman emphasizes that renovating a rental is often challenging but, in this case, allowed them to transform the space into a personalized home. Despite the initial state, the apartment featured appealing architectural elements such as built-in cabinets and ornate millwork from the early 20th century. Doman successfully integrated a dressing room and a music studio alongside the standard living areas, giving each space a distinct personality. Doman describes her personal design style as bold, bright, colorful, and comfortable, with a blend of sophistication and playfulness. She frequently works with New York apartments, which often present challenges due to their boxy and limited square footage. To counteract these constraints, she favors mid-century shapes and incorporates curvy pieces like free-form tables and rounded decor, along with intricate patterns. Her design process is organic, prioritizing meaningful existing decor and new discoveries over rigid pre-planned color schemes. She allows cherished items and found pieces to guide the aesthetic direction, developing a color story based on these elements midway through the design process. Inspiration for Doman's work comes from various sources, including iconic Post-Impressionist artists like Matisse, whom she admires for his depiction of whimsical and colorful interiors. She also draws ideas from decor magazines such as 'Elle Decor' and 'Architectural Digest,' and follows the work of the Belgian interior design team JP Demeyer & Co for their bold pattern play and eclecticism. For Doman, room functionality is paramount, as she considers how clients will live in their space, whether they prefer lounging or frequently host events. She aims to create spaces that offer a comforting escape from the city's chaos, providing an element of surprise upon entry. Doman sources her apartment decor from a variety of places, including CB2 for sculptural and contemporary furniture, Article for larger pieces like her green sectional, and her true passion, vintage sourcing, both online through Instagram shops and in-person around Brooklyn. She has found unique items on eBay, such as her vintage coffee table, and a lotus lamp from an Instagram seller. Etsy is another go-to for one-of-a-kind finds, and she appreciates local New York-based designers like BEAM, Cold Picnic, and Coming Soon NY. For paints, she uses Farrow and Ball for her living room and dressing room, and Benjamin Moore for the bedroom and kitchen. The biggest design challenge in her railroad apartment is its long and narrow layout, which can be difficult to decorate. The absence of closets necessitated creative storage solutions, including armoires, trunks, and room dividers. The renovation process also faced timeline delays, with the couple living in one room for a month while the rest of the apartment was completed. Doman advises others in similar living situations to be bold in creating different moods for each room while ensuring a cohesive flow due to open layouts. She achieves this by subtly referencing color palettes from other rooms, such as incorporating black and white objects throughout the apartment to echo the kitchen's tile. Ultimately, home for Doman represents a comfortable sanctuary for self-expression and the realization of aesthetic fantasies without external deadlines. #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #ApartmentLiving #RentalRenovation #HomeDecor #AllyDoman #NewYorkApartment #VintageSourcing #Maximalism

Brook Gesser, her husband Avi, their two teenage daughters, and two cats reside in a vibrant Brooklyn apartment that reflects their desire for a colorful and adventurous home, rather than a serene one. Having never hired an interior designer before, Gesser sought someone who could provide guidance while maintaining a relaxed and enjoyable collaborative experience. She found this in Danielle Fennoy of Brooklyn-based Revamp Interior Design, who enthusiastically embraced Gesser's vision for a "whimsical but not insane" aesthetic. The 2,850-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath apartment is located in a redeveloped 1897 French Renaissance limestone building, originally known as a "skyscraper hospital." Despite the initial emphasis on whimsy, the resulting design of the apartment is better characterized by its colorful, sophisticated, smart, textural, and light-filled qualities. The living room, featuring impressive 14-foot ceilings and restored original window beams and millwork, is designed with a harmonious interplay of curves. Notable pieces include a Cassina chaise, a Bensen swivel chair, a circular cocktail table by Yield Design, and a custom area rug that defines the space and integrates the room's color palette. Gesser points to the John Brauer acrylic Grand Illusion side table, resembling a table draped with a tablecloth, as one of the more whimsical elements. The kitchen, though largely untouched structurally by Fennoy, was significantly updated with a rich emerald green Heath ceramics Half Hex Stack tile backsplash, replacing the original white subway tile. The developer-installed lighting was replaced with custom solid brass pendants and a striking chandelier by Rich Brilliant Willing, creating a balance of farmhouse elements, high design, and modern lighting that is visible and captivating from the street. The design process actively involved both daughters, who collaborated with Fennoy in selecting fabrics and furniture for their rooms, leading to personalized spaces. One daughter's room is eclectic, featuring Flat Vernacular’s Fruit Doves wallpaper, a space-age hanging chair, and a doll collection. The other daughter's room is more traditional, decorated in sophisticated pink shades, with floral Anthropologie wallpaper and draperies made from Dedar fabric. This blend of readily available items and carefully selected splurges exemplifies Fennoy's design approach for the project. The main bedroom is adorned in deep aubergine tones, utilizing Farrow & Ball’s Brinjal paint on the walls, a custom bed with a Romo-printed headboard, and Dedar fabric throw pillows. Three art pieces by the late family friend Stan Brodsky, known for their exuberant color and motion, complement the apartment's desired atmosphere. While Gesser generally found the design choices straightforward, the selection of wallpaper for the foyer presented a significant challenge. Despite this, she expressed immense satisfaction with the final outcome, deeming it spectacular. Fennoy acknowledges that the design works without necessarily adhering to conventional logic, stating that her goal is not always to make logical sense, as that would limit creativity and accessibility for other designers. The overall effect is a uniquely curated and vibrant family home. #InteriorDesign #BrooklynApartment #ColorfulHome #FamilyResidence #DanielleFennoy #RevampInteriorDesign #EclecticDecor #HighCeilings #JewelTones

The article presents a detailed tour of Leena Nasser's landmarked Upper West Side apartment in Manhattan, designed by Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors. Leena, a social scientist, writer, artist, and dancer, sought to create a home that truly embodies her imaginative and free-spirited personality, a concept she refers to as her ‘creative womb’. The apartment, built in 1915, initially featured builder-grade finishes but possessed significant potential with its tall ceilings, exposed bricks, and a gorgeous terrace. The collaboration between Leena and Molly began during the closing of the apartment sale, fostering a strong connection from the outset. Leena's international lifestyle, with residences in New York, London, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia, influenced the design, as she frequently sent Molly ideas gathered from her travels. The design philosophy integrated a classic New York aesthetic with Parisian influences, culminating in a space tailored to Leena's unique tastes rather than being moderated for a broader audience. Molly highlighted the freedom of designing for an individual, allowing for a celebration of her client's identity. A significant aspect of the design involved incorporating Leena's interest in the divine feminine, the female form's strength, and her nature as a dreamer. An example of this is the mural in her bedroom, which was inspired by a dream she had about a waterfall cascading over a woman, brought to life to be a daily source of inspiration. This creative synergy enabled the realization of highly personalized elements throughout the apartment. The apartment is described as a 'feminine goddess sanctuary,' with each room possessing its own distinct 'magic' and feeling like a 'jewel.' Comfort and beauty were paramount, achieved through inviting elements like sheepskin armchairs and plump sofas, creating a soft and feminine ambiance. Live-edge wood shelving and terrace foliage were incorporated to bring natural elements indoors. The bathrooms feature zellige tiles, chosen for their unique textures and ability to evoke a spa-like, escapist atmosphere. Leena's passion for Arab history, forgotten Arab queens, and various cultures and fictional worlds also played a crucial role in the design. Historical elements are thoughtfully integrated throughout the apartment. A collection of her fairy tales, framed by Ilana Lobet, creates an arresting display on the exposed brick walls of the dining area, with over 75 unique pieces. The furniture in the main living space was specifically chosen to be light and movable, accommodating Leena's love for tango dancing and large-scale painting. The project not only resulted in a personalized sanctuary but also fostered a firm friendship between the client and the designer. Molly Torres Portnof shared insights into her design choices, highlighting the joy in Leena's appreciation for the apartment. She pointed to enlarging the terrace doors as a small change with a huge impact, significantly increasing light and life within the space. Her preferred color palette includes golden mustard with deep purples and greens, and she draws inspiration from Australian designers like Tali Roth and Flack Studio. Her favorite building, the Empire State Building, even influenced her company's name, 'Designing A Tiny Empire.' She also recommended the Demolition Depot in Harlem as a hidden gem for unique finds, emphasizing her attachment to her rug collection, which she views as 'pieces of art on our floors' that tell stories. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #ArtistHome #FeminineDesign #CustomInteriors #ExposedBrick #UpperWestSide #DATEInteriors #LeenaNasser

This blog post explores a unique approach to apartment living in New York City, focusing on the unconventional layout where the entrance hall and kitchen are combined. The author, a decorator, initially found this concept peculiar, particularly coming from London where such layouts are less common. She recounts her experience searching for an apartment and eventually moving into a space that integrated the kitchen into the entryway, a layout she initially considered 'bizarre' and 'out of the question.' Drawing inspiration from the idea that kitchens in country houses often serve as welcoming, central hubs, and noting that parties frequently gravitate towards the kitchen, the author began to see the potential in this combined space. Her previous kitchen was extremely small, making the prospect of a more functional, larger kitchen appealing. She decided to treat this combined area not just as a kitchen but as a fully realized room, an idea influenced by Elsie de Wolfe, who often repurposed entrance halls as dining rooms, viewing dining rooms as 'depressing' and halls as 'a waste of good space.' The author advocates for incorporating proper furniture, artwork, and lighting into kitchens, treating them with the same decorative consideration as any other room. She details how she transformed her entrance-kitchen space: a high stone-topped console table, previously in her living room, was placed opposite the kitchen cabinets, holding cookbooks, a toaster, and an espresso machine. To add a touch of cheer, she brought in bright pink silk chrysanthemums, which had been unused in her previous apartment, placing them prominently on the kitchen counter. A few months into living there, she recognized the need for a bookcase, which was provided by a friend. She emphasizes the transformative power of books in a room, suggesting that even in an entrance hall without a kitchen, a bookcase can significantly enhance the ambiance. She concludes by contrasting the initial grim thought of being greeted by a kitchen sink upon arrival with the reality of walking into a vibrant space filled with cooking essentials, books, flowers, and a lamp-lit table, offering a welcoming view into the living room. The author encourages readers to view their kitchens stylistically, turning them into rooms with 'a pulse' rather than mere collections of appliances, regardless of their standard or often uninspiring New York origins. #ApartmentLiving #KitchenDesign #EntranceHall #InteriorDecorating #HomeStyling #SmallSpaceDesign #NewYorkApartments #FunctionalDesign

Homepolish designer Tali Roth offers practical advice for renters looking to personalize their temporary living spaces, emphasizing that a rental unit's potential should not be wasted due to its temporary nature. She asserts that individuals often reside in rentals longer than anticipated, making it essential to create a comfortable and personalized environment rather than living in a state of limbo. Roth's own Chelsea loft serves as a prime example of how to infuse personal style into a rental without undertaking extensive, permanent renovations that could jeopardize a security deposit. Roth suggests focusing on easily modifiable elements within a rental. Lighting and window treatments are identified as key areas for impactful changes. For instance, an existing, generic light fixture can be replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing one. In her dining room, Roth replaced an IKEA light with a Synapse chandelier by Apparatus Studio, which helped to make the space feel cozier by lowering the ceiling's visual height. For those hesitant to alter existing wiring, sculptural wall lamps that plug into outlets and can be mounted high are presented as a viable alternative. Installing blinds and full-length curtains is also recommended to add warmth, texture, and privacy, with Roth opting for gray Belgian flax linen curtains to complement her home's modern color scheme. The article highlights Roth's innovative approach to customizing furniture, particularly her collaboration with Semihandmade to transform standard IKEA cabinet systems. Through this, she added custom taupe doors, a counter, and brass hardware to her units, demonstrating how affordable, modular furniture can be elevated to appear bespoke. One of the most significant transformations in Roth's loft was the application of faux concrete to a large wall by i faux. This technique was used to address the challenge of vast, white rental walls, adding significant texture and depth to prevent the space from feeling like a stark, empty box. Roth's design philosophy embraces geometric patterns and chunky forms, which she refers to as a "Flintstones aesthetic," influenced by her appreciation for modernism. This theme is consistently applied throughout her home, evident in sculptural vases, Hubble Wall Sconces by Pietro Russo for Baxter in the living room, and terrazzo wallpaper in the bathroom. While Roth chose traditional wallpaper, the article also suggests removable wallpaper options for renters seeking less commitment. The process of designing each rental space is also presented as a learning opportunity, allowing individuals to refine their tastes and understand what works best for their lifestyle, including considerations for living with young children. Roth shares a personal insight regarding her velvet couch, noting that its susceptibility to watermarks might lead her to choose a different material in future rentals, at least until her son is older. Ultimately, Roth emphasizes that customizing a rental is a common practice, particularly in cities like New York, where landlords generally expect tenants to personalize their living spaces. She reassures renters that most lease agreements simply require the unit to be returned to its original state, detailing her plans to reverse her changes, such as reinstalling the original light fixture, deconstructing the faux concrete, removing wallpaper, and repainting walls white, before moving out. #RentalDesign #LoftLiving #InteriorDecor #HomepolishDesigner #TaliRoth #DIYDecor #ApartmentRenovation #ModernAesthetic #IKEAHacks

Rina Lovko Studio undertook the redesign of a 2,200-square-foot apartment in Kyiv's Pecherskyi district, situated on the ninth floor of a circular tower. The apartment initially presented an unconventional, hand-fan-shaped floor plan with five enclosed rooms, which Rina Lovko noted as a challenge that precluded standard design approaches but also provided an opportunity for innovative design. The objective was to transform the space into an open, airy, and artful environment, catering to the clients' preference for flowing lines and maximizing the abundant natural light from the curved window wall. The redesign focused on integrating three of the original rooms into a single kitchen, dining, and living area, better suiting the lifestyle of the young, culinary-minded couple. The kitchen was conceived as a highly functional space for communal cooking and entertaining, featuring a large island topped with glazed porcelain tiles that mimic the irregular edges of handmade terra-cotta. The base cabinetry and a custom bar-height table, both crafted from painted MDF, introduce vibrant color accents that contrast with the exposed concrete of the apartment's architecture. The selection of materials and finishes, such as the porcelain tiles and painted MDF, was aimed at balancing aesthetic appeal with practical durability. The living area was designed to evoke a gallery-like atmosphere, characterized by minimalist furnishings arranged as freestanding sculptural elements. A key design strategy was the incorporation of extensive built-in storage solutions to eliminate clutter and maintain the area's clean, open feel. Lovko emphasized the creation of 'hidden areas' to store household items and relieve the main living space of visual distractions. This approach extended to a spacious dressing room located between the main and guest bedrooms, which includes a transparent, custom-designed wardrobe that doubles as a display case for clothing. Light penetration was a significant consideration throughout the design. A frosted glass wall was installed to separate the dressing room from the main circulation route, allowing natural light to extend into the landlocked main bathroom. This thoughtful integration of transparent and translucent materials ensured that even interior spaces received adequate illumination, contributing to the overall airiness of the apartment. Despite the use of rigorous architectural forms, strict lines, and minimal furnishings, the design successfully created a cozy and inviting environment, challenging the perception that minimalist design cannot be warm. The article highlights specific product sources and designers, including a wool-linen rug by Yuriy Zimenko, a Gaetano Pesce Serie Up 2000 lounge, Shane Schneck’s Bowler table, Barber & Osgerby’s Lane glazed porcelain tile, Iskos-Berlin’s felt Dancing pendant, and Tim Rundle’s TR Bulb pendant fixture, among others. Custom furniture fabrication and glasswork were handled by Bassa, with local distribution partners Davis Casa and Svetoria. #KyivApartment #RinaLovkoStudio #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #OpenConceptLiving #CustomFurniture #MinimalistDesign #InnovativeLayout #ResidentialDesign

The article details the transformation of a 2300-square-foot penthouse apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, from a clinical, industrial space into a whimsical and functional family home. Keren Richter, co-founder of interior design studio White Arrow, led the redesign, prioritizing the tastes and needs of the clients' three young children. The project focused on softening the apartment's original hard-edged and high-contrast finishes to create a more playful and inviting environment for the family. One of the most notable features of the redesign is the kitchen. Richter expressed her particular fondness for this space, highlighting the custom cabinetry crafted from bleached maple. This choice provides a light and natural base, which is then complemented by aluminum cast hardware from Australian designer Studio Henry Wilson. A striking element is the refreshing green Calacatta turquoise marble used for the countertops and backsplash, creating a vibrant contrast with the playful powder pink kitchen cabinets. The kitchen also incorporates whimsical decor, such as abstract modern bar stools by Jack Rabbit Studio, and existing artwork from the client, all contributing to a balanced and uplifting aesthetic. Despite adopting some minimalist principles, such as built-in storage to conceal clutter, the space retains warmth and visual interest through its material and color palette, demonstrating that extensive decoration is not always necessary when materials speak for themselves. Contrasting with the lower floors, the top floor of the duplex was designed with cooler tones and a more pared-back aesthetic. The dining room, for instance, features sleek wood surfaces and mid-century modern furniture. Abstract elements are woven throughout, from a uniquely based dining table to an abstract midcentury pendant light, maintaining a visually engaging yet minimally decorated space. The design incorporates materials like chrome, mirror, hand-blown glass, and bleached maple, alongside bold Calacatta turquoise marble and cast aluminum hardware, to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Playful touches, such as a pink console, wavy candleholders, and angular lighting, are strategically placed to echo the home's overall whimsical theme without overwhelming the refined design. The living room provides a plush and inviting atmosphere, featuring a large powder-blue sofa and quilted modern armchairs that blend contemporary style with family-friendly comfort and practicality. The careful use of pastel colors and a colorful abstract rug adds playfulness without being overwhelming, balanced by a sleek chrome coffee table. This space exemplifies the fusion of sophistication with accessibility for children. In the master bedroom, the concept of softness is particularly evident. A cloud-like wall mural creates an airy and relaxing ambiance, ideal for a sleep space. While pink dominates the color scheme, it is balanced by neutral decor, including a boucle bed frame and a warm-toned geometric rug, preventing the room from appearing overly saccharine. A delicate chandelier adds an extra layer of sophistication, complementing the room's soft elements. Subtle gold accents and art pieces contribute to a luxurious, retreat-like feel. Throughout the home, the designers incorporated a refreshing and calming palette, contemporary art, unique wallpapers, locally made design pieces, and a mix of reflective 70s Italian lighting and furniture, seamlessly integrating custom White Arrow-designed elements. Wood, specifically white oak, is used extensively throughout the home to provide a refined yet durable finish capable of withstanding years of family life. Custom white oak features include a primary closet, a connecting staircase with curved detailing, and refinished floors. The design also incorporated curves in architectural details like window wells and maximized storage solutions to accommodate the active family's needs. The children's rooms on the lower floors feature more saturated colors and patterns, including an immersive scenic mural, hand-drawn wallpapers, and graphic rugs and window coverings, creating playful and intricate spaces that are balanced by abstract colorful rugs and curved wood furniture. The nursery, for example, combines a wood cot, a blue rug, an armchair, and polka-dot wallpaper with framed prints, reflecting a thoughtful blend of functional design and cheerful aesthetics suitable for young occupants. #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BrooklynApartment #HomeRenovation #WhimsicalDecor #ModernDesign #ColorPalette #CustomCabinetry #SpacePlanning

The article explores the Nolita loft apartment of celebrity stylist Cristina Ehrlich, highlighting how the space has been optimized for both visual appeal and functionality, a common challenge in New York City living. Ehrlich, known for styling high-profile clients such as Tina Fey, Julia Louis Dreyfus, and Jane Fonda, collaborated with interior designer Alexandra Hayden and Octave Studio to transform her apartment into a glamorous yet serene abode. Despite being a technically one-room space with an upstairs sleeping nook, the apartment feels remarkably spacious due to strategic design choices. Ehrlich’s decision to live in the Nolita/Little Italy area was driven by its high ceilings, abundant natural light, and the raw, loft-like quality reminiscent of her NYU days. Her vision for the apartment was to create a tranquil, clean, and zen interior that contrasts with the gritty street style of NYC. This balance was achieved through a complete gut renovation that involved tearing down walls, adding closets, and building bookshelves. The renovation process, as Ehrlich noted, required a dedicated team to execute her specific vision, emphasizing that undertaking such a project in NYC is not for the 'faint-hearted'. A key element in maximizing the perception of space in her loft is lighting, with the apartment benefiting from exceptionally tall windows and high ceilings. Ehrlich considers her ability to meticulously attend to detail, a skill honed in fashion, to be equally applicable to interior design. The apartment also features a dedicated, livable workspace carved out from a corner, allowing for creativity and motivation within a clean environment. Her furniture collection is an eclectic mix of pieces gathered over time, with a particular fondness for vintage items that she reworks to fit her aesthetic. Notable design elements include a dream clawfoot cast-iron bathtub and European oak white floors, contributing to the overall serene and clean aesthetic. The apartment's single-room layout, with a cozy upstairs sleeping nook, is a feature Ehrlich particularly cherishes, emphasizing the unique character of loft living. The article showcases how Ehrlich, with the help of design professionals, successfully transformed a challenging urban space into a highly optimized and visually expanding environment. It serves as an example of how key architectural features like high ceilings and large windows, combined with strategic renovation and thoughtful design, can make smaller city apartments feel significantly larger and more luxurious. The focus is on practical and aesthetic strategies for space optimization within a New York City context, reflecting Ehrlich's expertise in visual presentation across both fashion and interiors. #CelebrityHome #NolitaApartment #InteriorDesign #SpaceOptimization #NewYorkCityLiving #LoftDesign #HomeRenovation #StylistHome #AlexandraHayden

Tatyana Miron Ahlers, a renowned interior designer and partner in the ELLE Decor A-List firm Pappas Miron, showcases her downtown New York City loft, which she has meticulously crafted to be a vibrant and functional space for her family of five. Her design philosophy, characterized by a fearless blend of modern and vintage elements, eschews conventional notions of provenance and preciousness, instead prioritizing personal connection and the life a room facilitates. This approach has been a hallmark of Ahlers's style since her early post-collegiate days in New York, where she effortlessly hosted gatherings, elevating simple get-togethers with crystal goblets and a sophisticated yet unpretentious ambiance. Ahlers's aesthetic was shaped by early exposure to designer showhouses and estate sales, alongside her best friend and now business partner, Zandra Pappas. Her distinctive style, marked by a penchant for 1970s fashion and a belief in enduring personal expression, translates into interiors that are both unique and inviting. Her design ethos is rooted in the juxtaposition of diverse elements, believing that if each item holds personal meaning, they inherently harmonize, creating a cohesive and personal narrative within a space. This willingness to take risks is evident in her choice to commission an outsider artist, Earl Swanigan, for a family portrait depicting them as cats, a piece that became a central and cherished focal point in her living room. Her talent for reimagining spaces proved invaluable when she and her lawyer husband initially rented a loft in an 1880s cast-iron building near City Hall. Despite initial impressions of primary-colored walls and Formica cabinetry, Ahlers recognized the potential in the soaring ceilings and expansive windows. After purchasing the loft from the owners, who decided not to return from Europe, their family grew, necessitating more space. Instead of moving, Ahlers ingeniously acquired the adjacent apartment, despite the challenge of 24-inch-thick brick walls separating the units. Her solution was to connect them via a hallway in the entry, dedicating one apartment to private family quarters and converting the kitchen of the second unit into a wet bar, creating an expansive area perfectly suited for entertaining. This innovative expansion reflects Ahlers's deep-seated belief that a home thrives when filled with people. Even amidst the limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic, her dedication to creating a celebratory atmosphere persists; she continues to set elaborate tables, adorn spaces with flowers, and transform takeout meals into festive family occasions. Her ability to visualize and transform spaces, overcoming structural limitations and conventional expectations, solidifies her reputation as a designer who champions bold choices and creates homes that are not just visually stunning but also deeply resonant with the lives lived within them. Her home stands as a testament to her philosophy: a dynamic, personal, and endlessly entertaining environment designed for maximum family enjoyment and social engagement. #NewYorkLoft #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #EclecticDecor #VintageFurniture #TatyanaMironAhlers #PappasMiron #EntertainingSpace #DesignPhilosophy

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

The Whistling Well, led by founder and principal designer Milena Bica-Shibata, undertook the task of transforming an expansive yet outdated Manhattan apartment into a modern sanctuary for a family of three. The design focused on creating a home that supports the family's lifestyle, which includes frequent hosting and communal meals. The 1,800-square-foot apartment now features three bedrooms and baths, alongside generous communal areas such as a lounge and living room, all designed to foster tranquility and connection. Bica-Shibata emphasized the careful selection of natural materials to achieve harmony and a variety of textures and temperatures throughout the space. The chosen materials include stained oak, ash, leathered quartzite, linen, leather, wool, brass, artisan ceramic tile, marbles, and warm tinted glass. This diverse material palette is complemented by a balanced scheme of cool and warm colors, creating a dynamic yet serene aesthetic. The design incorporates clean lines and rounded edges, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere. A custom wood ceiling trim in the living room serves to balance the space and draw the eye upwards, adding architectural interest. This wooden element extends into the kitchen and a custom-designed bar area. The bar was specifically conceived as a continuation of the perimeter millwork, seamlessly transitioning into the eat-in area, which features an operable partition. The design team meticulously studied proportions and materials to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing composition for these integrated spaces. The kitchen itself is a multifunctional tranquil zone, complete with a breakfast nook and the aforementioned bar, catering to the family's culinary and social needs. The inclusion of playful wallcoverings adds a vibrant touch to various areas, such as the children's room where a bold pink and orange wallpaper creates a focal point behind a daybed, and the bathrooms, which also feature lively patterns. Subtle neutrals anchor the main bedroom, promoting a sense of calm and restfulness. Layers of natural materials and earthy hues are consistently applied throughout the home, imbuing it with an overarching sense of peacefulness. This careful curation of design elements and materials successfully transforms the apartment into an oasis, offering a serene escape for the family and their guests amidst the bustling environment of Manhattan. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Wallcoverings #ModernHome #TranquilSpaces

Hilary Matt Interiors undertook the design of a traditional Manhattan apartment for a family of four, including two young children. The primary objective was to infuse the space with a unique and stylish atmosphere that reflects the family's personality while transforming it into a more inviting home. Given the presence of children, the design approach focused on an elevated yet playful aesthetic, strategically incorporating black accents throughout the apartment to conceal signs of wear and tear while maintaining sophistication and boldness. The project spanned less than a year, with the design firm primarily focusing on cosmetic enhancements rather than extensive renovations. A key aspect of the process involved the integration of custom millwork elements, which significantly contributed to the warmth and character of the space. The efficiency of the project was largely attributed to the high level of trust extended by the clients to Hilary Matt Interiors, fostering a collaborative environment that was deemed crucial to the project's success. Addressing the limited natural light, Hilary Matt opted for a predominantly neutral color palette, strategically punctuated with vibrant color accents. The dining area exemplifies this approach, featuring sleek black chairs that complement a custom dining table and artworks sourced from Voltz Clarke Gallery. The artwork selections throughout the apartment lean towards graphic and geometric designs, a theme echoed in the silhouettes of the furniture and the choice of wallpaper patterns. A soft gray couch is paired with an ottoman that seamlessly integrates with a custom built-in television unit. The use of custom furniture proved to be an effective solution for optimizing space within the apartment. Bespoke pieces such as the custom TV built-in in the living room, the custom desk and shelving unit in the office, and the custom bed in the primary bedroom were all designed and produced to precisely meet the clients' specific needs, eliminating the need to compromise with ready-made alternatives. In the children's rooms, twin daybeds with trundles were incorporated, maximizing floor space for play, especially during sleepovers. The final design outcome successfully blended elements of funk and vintage flair, notably through the inclusion of burnt '70s orange hues and various velvet textures, culminating in a distinctive and personalized home. #InteriorDesign #UpperEastSide #ManhattanApartment #FamilyHome #CustomFurniture #NeutralColorPalette #BlackAccents #ModernLuxury

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

This article provides a detailed tour of celebrity chef, event planner, and lifestyle expert Travis London's Brooklyn apartment, highlighting his unique approach to interior design and budget-friendly decorating. London describes his apartment as a "love letter to himself," reflecting his vibrant personality and diverse experiences living in Paris and Milan. Unlike his previous residences, which were distinctly French or modern, his New York apartment is a blend of cultures and styles, mirroring the city's diversity. Each room in his two-bedroom apartment by Level One Holdings is designed to represent a different aspect of his persona. The bedroom, for instance, draws inspiration from Los Angeles with masculine, clean lines and features a personal photo. The combined office/guest room is characterized by its bright, white, and simple aesthetic, which London states reflects his straightforward and meticulous work ethic. The living room, his favorite space, embraces a maximalist philosophy inspired by European design, where bold fabrics and prints are mixed to create a cohesive yet vibrant environment. London encourages mixing seemingly disparate elements, citing his living room's black and white wallpaper, blue and white patterned rug, pink chairs, and green sofa as an example of how contrasting elements can work together harmoniously. The apartment was brand new when London moved in, requiring minimal renovation beyond the introduction of color. He initiated the design process by acquiring a green velvet couch, which served as a foundational piece around which the rest of the apartment's decor was built. London is also adept at mixing and matching prints, offering advice on how to combine wallpaper patterns effectively—suggesting the pairing of a print with a pattern rather than two prints to avoid clashes. His bathroom features Beverly Hills Hotel-inspired wallpaper next to a hallway wallpaper with blue dots, demonstrating this principle. A significant aspect of London’s decorating philosophy revolves around achieving a stylish look on a budget. He emphasizes that many of his seemingly luxurious items are surprisingly affordable and practical. London advocates for online shopping for affordable decor, noting that many companies offer returns or setup services, mitigating the risk of online purchases. He suggests ordering fabric swatches beforehand to ensure satisfaction. His budget-friendly tips include opting for matte over glossy hardware, using decanters to elevate the appearance of beverages, and incorporating fresh flowers regularly. He frequently shops at online retailers such as CB2, Wayfair, Overstock, West Elm, and Spoonflower for custom fabrics and wallpaper. London also shares a crucial shopping secret: being wary of drop-shipped items, particularly from large companies that may significantly mark up prices. He advises searching for alternative retailers for non-exclusive, drop-shipped products to find better deals. Furthermore, he prioritizes practicality in his fabric choices, selecting versatile, easily washable materials to accommodate his two dogs. For example, his office's white couch is made of washable micro-suede, which he finds to be a lifesaver for easy cleaning. This pragmatic approach underscores his belief that decorating should be inclusive and adaptable to everyday life, allowing for beautiful, yet functional, spaces without the fear of damage being financially crippling. #CelebrityHome #ApartmentTour #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecorating #BoldDecor #MaximalistDesign #TravisLondon #HomeStyling #NewYorkApartment