Dolores Catania Debuts the Luxe Pool in Her Stunning New Backyard (VIDEO)

Ty Bhojwani, an Indian-born Canadian businessman, embarked on a decade-long journey to create his dream getaway home in Alibag, near Mumbai, India. After exploring numerous plots, he finally settled on a 1.8-hectare (4.4-acre) patch of land in 2012, drawn by its breathtaking vistas of the sea, hills, and verdant valleys. Despite initial challenges such as the absence of water, electricity, and roads, Bhojwani remained committed to his vision. Construction of the five-bedroom house, named The Ray after the manta rays found in the Arabian Sea, began in 2017 and took four years to complete, rather than the initial 18-month estimate. The Ray consists of two distinct two-storey pavilions: one is light and airy, while the other is substantial and monumental. Interestingly, neither pavilion primarily focuses on maximizing sea views; instead, they offer diverse vistas, including a central courtyard featuring boulders set in gravel. This design approach, advocated by Robert Verrijt and Shefali Balwani, co-founders of Architecture BRIO, aimed to give the house more dimension. Their design was a thoughtful response to Bhojwani's request for a modern plantation-style home reminiscent of grand mansions in Barbados and the Bahamas. The white pavilion incorporates traditional plantation elements such as shuttered expanses and high ceilings to promote natural airflow, ensuring the structure felt integrated with its environment rather than alien. To further blend the house with its surroundings, landscape architect Kunal Maniar collaborated with Architecture BRIO to enhance the undulating site. They designed a dense screen at the entrance to build anticipation for visitors. The arrival sequence leads guests through a crushed stone path to a cave-like lobby featuring a manta-ray floor mosaic. From there, a spiral staircase descends into a bright, open living area with steel-framed windows on three sides, offering views of an infinity pool and green paddy fields, with the bay visible in the distance. The stone pavilion, housing the bedrooms, is accessible from the double-height living room, including a "secret" passage at the rear. The master bedroom, located on the upper level, connects to an outdoor staircase resembling stepped pyramids. Gardens surrounding the two top-floor bedrooms help to maintain cooler temperatures in the rooms below. The wraparound infinity pool and an adjacent louvred outdoor lounge, extending from the living room, contribute to the home's inviting atmosphere. Esha, Bhojwani’s wife, chose the hand-fired turquoise blue tiles for the pool, preferring them over popular black-bottom or cement pools for their welcoming aesthetic. The furniture and furnishings, both indoors and outdoors, were either custom-designed, selected from existing collections, or sourced primarily from Indonesia by Timothy Oulton Studio, emphasizing comfort with washed linens. Unique natural basalt boulders on the property were either retained as features or carved by Rajasthani artisans into distinctive bathroom basins, adding to the home's remarkable character. Despite the lengthy development process, Bhojwani finds moments by the pool surreal, fulfilling a vision he held for a decade. #Architecture #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #AlibagIndia #ModernPlantationHouse #InfinityPool #TimothyOulton #ArchitectureBRIO #LandscapeDesign

Melissa Gorga, a cast member from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" (RHONJ), unveiled her newly completed backyard oasis, transforming it into a resort-like retreat. Although the Gorgas moved into their Franklin Lakes home in November 2022, the outdoor area underwent significant work that was finalized recently. The extensive renovation features a meticulously designed space that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. Central to the backyard's appeal is a large sliding glass door from the kitchen, creating an open-concept flow to the back patio. The patio is furnished with midcentury-style black chairs featuring white cushions and a large round black table, lending an elegant touch. Rectangular black lantern sconces and an ivory outdoor fireplace enhance the cozy ambiance. An impressive outdoor kitchen area further complements the patio, equipped with a grill and smoker, catering to outdoor culinary needs. The backyard's centerpiece is a stunning pool area. This includes a serene arrangement of daybeds, white deck chairs with black cushions, and a Baja shelf within the pool, featuring built-in white lounge chairs. Adjacent to the pool, an additional lounge area showcases contemporary elegant design with large black chairs and a long black loveseat adorned with cream-colored cushions. These pieces are situated on sleek concrete pavers interspersed with black stones, all encircling a prominent rectangular fireplace. Gorga's vision for the backyard was to evoke the feeling of a resort, emphasizing ample lounge seating and numerous fireplaces for gathering. The sounds of waterfalls contribute to a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, fulfilling her desire for a serene environment. Melissa Gorga provided further details on the design and construction of her backyard in 2023, acknowledging The Pool Boss, a New Jersey-based company, for their exemplary work on the pool. She thanked her friend, who is a pool designer with The Pool Boss, for realizing her family's desires for the space. The outdoor furniture, including the daybeds, were sourced from The Wickery, an outdoor furniture retailer. The Pool Boss also shared images of the finished backyard on social media, highlighting how the upper and lower patio areas seamlessly integrate with the pool, underscoring the resort-like quality of the entire outdoor setting. The company described the backyard as a "magazine worthy" space that "screams five-star resort," confirming the successful execution of Gorga's luxurious vision. #MelissaGorga #RHONJ #HomeTours #BackyardDesign #OutdoorLiving #LuxuryPools #FranklinLakesHome #InteriorDesign #ResortStyle

This article highlights the successful restoration of a stoop on a Park Slope brownstone, a project undertaken by a homeowner who shared his experience and photographs. The house, when acquired, lacked a stoop, and its main front-door entrance had been replaced by a window. The homeowner explained that many houses in his row reportedly lost their cast iron railings during a WWII scrap metal drive. The renovation of the stoop was a significant undertaking, initiated approximately eight years prior to the article's publication. The project began with the stripping of old paint and repointing of the facade. Subsequently, the brickwork that had filled the original door opening was removed, and a new door frame was constructed to accommodate a vintage door. Prior to the stoop's installation, this entrance was effectively a 'door to nowhere.' To construct the new stoop, the homeowner engaged Bay Ridge Iron Restoration, a company located in Gowanus. He provided them with sketches and numerous photographs of stoops from the surrounding area, expressing a clear vision for the desired outcome. The homeowner sought a design with a metal frame that would allow light and air to circulate underneath, a deliberate choice to avoid the typical dark and damp appearance often associated with under-stoop entrances. He also preferred brownstone treads to achieve a warmer aesthetic and a more suitable profile. During the collaboration, the contractor revealed a collection of original and replica cast iron newel posts, from which the homeowner found suitable matches for his design. The railing installed was new, while the newel posts were cast from a mold created from an existing original post found in the neighborhood. Additionally, matching window bars were ordered for the garden level. A cement subcontractor handled the base construction, and a company in the Bronx was responsible for casting the brownstone treads, ensuring they precisely matched the existing stone of the house. The entire project, completed eight years ago, incurred a cost of $19,000. The article features several illustrations showcasing the finished stoop, highlighting its full appearance with decorative red flower pots, a close-up view from the side emphasizing the newel posts and window bars, and a contextual shot demonstrating how the stoop integrates with the neighboring facades. The homeowner, whose current project involves restoring his living room, expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome. The article concludes by inviting other readers to share their own stoop renovation stories and photos, encouraging community engagement and the exchange of home improvement experiences. #StoopRestoration #HomeRenovation #Brownstone #ParkSlope #ArchitecturalDetails #HistoricPreservation #Ironwork #BrooklynRealEstate

A New York real estate agent, Danielle Eyubeh, 30, went viral on TikTok after a humorous incident where she mistakenly walked across a covered pool, believing it to be a solid patio. The video, which accumulated over 7.8 million views, shows Eyubeh confidently approaching her clients while on the phone, only realizing her error when her foot slightly sank into the pool cover. The accompanying caption humorously noted, "When your realtor will literally walk across water for you." Eyubeh explained to Newsweek that her distraction was due to her focus on showing the home and answering a client's question, causing her to overlook the pool. She also mentioned that the property was advertised online with the pool uncovered, contributing to her confusion. Eyubeh, who started her real estate career in August 2020, uses her social media platform to present a realistic and relatable portrayal of the real estate business, acknowledging that things do not always go perfectly. This incident aligns with her brand message of authenticity. The article also delves into the real estate market's demand for homes with pools, noting a significant increase post-COVID-19 pandemic. Realtor.com referred to this trend as the "pool premium," highlighting that properties with pools commanded significantly higher asking prices than those without. The peak of this demand was in January 2022, when homes with pools saw a 61% price premium. However, the demand for properties with pools eventually decreased. By April 2025, the price premium for homes with pools had dropped to 54%. The viral video sparked numerous reactions online, with commenters finding humor in the situation. Remarks included observations about the durability of the pool cover and lighthearted comparisons to biblical events. Eyubeh expressed her delight that the video brought laughter to viewers, stating that she did not anticipate it going viral. This incident is not an isolated one, as other realtors have also gained internet attention for amusing workplace mishaps, such as an unexpected reaction to hairless cats in 2023. #Viral #Trends #Lifestyle #Trending #Pool #RealEstate #Realtor #TikTok #HomeAndGarden

Katharine Pooley Limited (KPL) has designed a luxurious home-gym, fitness, and relaxation space that combines elegance with functionality. This unique area is intended for cardiovascular workouts, weight training, yoga, and swimming, demonstrating that fitness and luxury are not mutually exclusive. The design draws inspiration from five-star hotel indoor pools and gymnasiums in Asia and Europe, aiming to create a cohesive aesthetic that complements both the external and internal architecture of a private villa or home with views. The core philosophy behind the design emphasizes a balance between timeless luxury and intelligent design, a key aspiration for KPL. The project incorporates contemporary trends, including multi-functional spaces and the sophisticated application of glamorous finishes. Pooley highlights the use of materials such as cleanly veined marbles, polished plasters, poured resins, and organic textures like sand plaster timbers and cast bronze. These material choices contribute to a chic, minimal aesthetic. The design pays meticulous attention to detail, impacting both the visual appeal and practical utility of the space. For instance, the high-end sprung flooring features a timber-look plank design with integrated matting and bronze trims. Light timber veneered joinery is custom-designed to offer flexibility, allowing gym accessories to be either prominently displayed with LED lighting strips or discreetly stored to maintain a sleek appearance. Technological integration is a significant aspect of the design, with walls adorned with tall mirrored panels, bronze trims, and state-of-the-art televisions and sound systems. The lighting scheme is carefully considered to provide consistent yet functional soft illumination. This is achieved through a variety of high-specification LED lighting units, strips, niche lighting, and directional lighting, creating a curated system that offers flexibility and diverse light settings. The pool hall area also includes a jacuzzi and a plunge pool, further enhancing the relaxation aspect of the space. The overall concept underscores a growing demand for luxury home environments that cater comprehensively to wellness, fitness, and relaxation, all within a sophisticated and intelligently designed setting. #LuxuryHomeGym #KatharinePooley #InteriorDesign #FitnessSpace #WellnessDesign #SmartHome #ArchitecturalDesign #MaterialSelection #LuxuryLifestyle

The allure of lounging by a pool on a warm, sunny day is undeniable, making it essential to plan the perfect pool setup as summer approaches. This comprehensive guide offers inspiring swimming pool designs, catering to both those looking to update an existing pool and those planning a new installation. The designs range from a Tuscan-style retreat and rustic farmhouse aesthetics to indoor lap pools and configurations with outdoor bars, all aimed at fostering relaxation and enjoyment. Readers are encouraged to draw inspiration from these ideas to create their ideal pool. The article highlights various design elements and features to consider. Integrating a fountain element can create a spa-like auditory experience, exemplified by an Odessa stone pool edging with simple passageways. For a more natural aesthetic, pools can be set in aggregate-seeded concrete decking, surrounded by low-water, low-maintenance native plants, immersing the pool area in nature. Choosing a black pool can further blend it into the surrounding landscape, especially when abundant mature trees are present. Creative tiling, such as deep teal square mosaic tiles combined with clay or brick, can add warmth and visual interest. Clear glass enclosures offer a sleek, unobtrusive barrier, allowing architectural geometry to shine while preventing splashes in seating areas. Bringing the lawn directly to the pool's edge can make the pool appear to float, creating a natural mirror to the sky. Utilizing different materials for opposite pool edges, like off-white patio edges transitioning to natural grasses, can create a glistening visual segue. For a historic ambiance, vintage furnishings and decor can transform a pool area into an ornamental water feature. Incorporating built-in steps ensures easy accessibility for all users, regardless of pool size. Resort-inspired designs, featuring irregular stonework and oblong shapes, can evoke a lagoon-like feel, enhanced by browsing images from luxury resorts for additional shape ideas. Functional considerations include building the pool near an outdoor home bar, optimizing it with Baja shelves and built-in side tables for entertaining. For exercise-focused pools, a rectangular, long, and linear shape is recommended, offering more cover options. Connecting the indoor kitchen to the swimming deck via a large awning window and exterior counter extension can create visual cohesion with modern materials. Playful tiles, like eclectic patterns, blooming bougainvillea, and unique umbrellas, can infuse personality without being overly eccentric. Overcoming regional restrictions for pool installation might involve strategic planting, using smaller floor cushions, and installing swimming jets for lap swimming in confined spaces. Creating an eye-catching pathway, such as an offset stacked bond pattern, can visually lead to the pool. Experimenting with shapes, like circular pools, can create whimsical yet sophisticated designs that complement unique architectural features. Fencing, whether minimalist or classic stone, is crucial for privacy and safety. Multi-tiered infinity pools can offer several levels for separation, like jacuzzis and swimming areas, especially when overlooking scenic landscape features. Other ideas include matching the pool design to the home's architectural style, swapping a jacuzzi for an outdoor fire pit, carving out dedicated bar prep areas, and creating all-white sitting areas for sleek pool parties. Building a built-in island within the pool adds functionality and visual appeal. Enhancing the surroundings with light stone tile borders and gravel walkways can seamlessly integrate the pool into the environment. Rustic touches like barn doors for pool houses, and thoughtful decor such as painted wood paneling, brushed cement floors, and lantern installations, can elevate the pool space. Adding pops of color through gas lanterns and bolster cushions can introduce a vibrant, thematic feel. Incorporating indoor-outdoor pools with glass walls offers year-round usability and unique architectural statements. Landscaping around the pool, rather than a traditional rectangular shape, allows for lush plants and defined shallow ends. Focusing on the view with minimalist decks and infinity pools creates a stunning, expansive visual. Bold pool tiles, natural shade from foliage, creative sunshades, grid-like stone pavers, kid-friendly features like slides, built-in seating areas, darker stone tiles for moodier ambiance, integrated spas, and matching guesthouses to pool exteriors are also explored. Lastly, adding drama with stepping stones, incorporating underwater seating, using clipped boxwood and hedges for classic looks, drawing inspiration from grand designs, building adjacent gazebos, and hanging sheer curtains can all contribute to a truly magnificent pool area. Constructing a raised deck can elevate the pool area above less attractive functional spaces, creating a private retreat. #PoolDesign #BackyardOasis #OutdoorLiving #HomeDecor #LandscapeDesign #SummerReady #LuxuryPools #PoolsideEntertaining #Relaxation

K10 Studio has unveiled Casa Infinity, a contemporary concrete residence located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. This architectural project integrates raw materials to create a modern tropical aesthetic, with a notable L-shaped infinity pool serving as a central design element that visually connects the home's interior with its natural surroundings. The residence is situated on a hilltop in Guanacaste, offering subtle ocean views amidst surrounding Teak trees. The design philosophy behind Casa Infinity focuses on blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The L-shaped infinity pool is strategically placed to act as the primary axis around which the social areas of the house are organized, enhancing this connection to the garden and the Pacific Ocean. The architectural composition is characterized by two distinct volumes. The front volume, designed to face the street, is constructed from exposed concrete, providing a sense of privacy and a grand, temple-like facade. Local artisans were involved in creating a dynamic mosaic texture on this concrete surface, adding a unique artistic touch. The main entrance is further accentuated by large Teak wood panels, which introduce a natural and welcoming element to the robust concrete structure. The material palette of Casa Infinity emphasizes a balance between the raw industrial feel of concrete and the warmth of natural wood. Exposed concrete walls and ceilings are utilized throughout the residence, offering a textured finish that imbues the structure with character and integrates it more deeply with its environment. This minimalist approach is thoughtfully combined with wooden elements to achieve a distinct 'tropical' aesthetic. The construction process benefited from prefabrication techniques, which were employed to ensure both the quality and efficiency of the build. In contrast to the concrete front, the rear volume features a striking steel structure complemented by a ceiling made of local Teak slats. This combination creates a visual and material contrast that adds depth to the design. The living areas are equipped with tempered glass doors that can be fully opened, extending the indoor spaces onto terraces and further dissolving the barrier between the interior and exterior. The infinity pool, which wraps around the first floor, includes a built-in bench, offering a space for relaxation and social interaction while overlooking the picturesque landscape. Casa Infinity exemplifies simplicity, sophistication, and high-end finishes. K10 Studio, the Costa Rican architecture firm behind the project, has successfully blended minimalist design principles with the specific requirements of a tropical climate. The design incorporates natural cross ventilation and solar control techniques, ensuring a harmonious and comfortable living environment that continuously fosters a connection to its natural setting. #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #InfinityPool #CostaRica #TropicalDesign #K10Studio #SustainableDesign #WoodArchitecture #Guanacaste

Diane Fogerty, owner of Savvy Surrounding Style, embarked on a transformative project to convert her pool house into an open-air entertainment space, driven by a desire to seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living. The core of this renovation involved removing a full wall and three-quarters of another, replacing them with folding glass doors. This strategic design choice allows the space to function year-round, enabling the family to enjoy an 'outside' feel regardless of weather conditions, with the flexibility to close the doors and utilize heating or air conditioning as needed. The outdoor element is further emphasized by the inclusion of an oversized grill, facilitating year-round outdoor cooking. The transformed pool house, situated on a 3-acre property in Frontenac, offers a unique 'glamping' experience, blending the joys of nature with the comforts of home. Beyond the kitchen, the space is thoughtfully furnished with two full-size sofas, floor pillow seating, a bespoke humidor, and a convenient powder room. While the natural surroundings, including weather, stars, and sunshine, serve as the primary focal point, meticulous attention was paid to the interior design. A neutral color palette, featuring creamy Danby marble and natural stone accents, was chosen to enhance the open and airy feel of the space. The console beneath the television is crafted from wood and stone, contributing to the natural aesthetic, while decorative light fixtures above the living area are made from grapevine and twigs, further reinforcing the organic theme. The flooring, travertine tile, extends from the pool deck into the interior, providing a cohesive look that is both slip-resistant and easy to maintain, mirroring the natural variations of stone. Fogerty offers advice for creating comfortable outdoor living areas, stressing the importance of personalizing the space as one would an indoor room. She highlights her own addition of a hanging herb garden on a brick wall, which not only provides fresh herbs for cooking but also infuses the space with pleasant aromas. For ambiance, an outdoor fireplace is recommended, with options like tabletop fire pits available for smaller areas. Practical seating solutions for limited spaces include built-in benches adorned with attractive fabrics and throw pillows, or hanging swings, ensuring comfort without sacrificing space. To achieve a harmonious flow between the indoor and outdoor environments, Fogerty advises maintaining a consistent color palette. The renovated pool house serves as a cherished retreat for Fogerty's family, offering a relaxed setting for various activities such as outdoor movie nights and watching sports. The ability to enjoy these experiences within the comfort of their home, while feeling connected to nature, underscores the success of the design. The project demonstrates how thoughtful design can bridge the gap between interior comfort and the natural environment, creating a versatile and inviting space for entertaining and relaxation. #HomeDesign #PoolHouse #OutdoorLiving #EntertainmentSpace #InteriorDesign #NeutralPalette #FoldingGlassDoors #TravertineTile #DianeFogerty

Architects Cayley Lambur and Lucia Bartholomew, cofounders of Electric Bowery, faced the challenge of a narrow 60-foot-wide plot in Venice, California. Collaborating with Gaia Construction, they designed a hacienda-style, multi-building compound, integrating custom steel windows and doors that open to a central courtyard. The design aimed to create a secluded, private retreat within the property boundaries. Landscape architects Terremoto, with assistance from Barranca Landscape, developed a landscaping plan focusing on lush, privacy-enhancing plants and a meandering layout that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces. This approach ensures that the outdoor areas do not feel like a singular large patio but rather a series of interconnected zones, enhancing the overall sense of privacy and retreat. Key design elements include the strategic use of travertine, a durable variety of limestone. This material was applied consistently across the property, appearing on the house's facade, as large patio pavers, and even in an alfresco shower. The shower's pony wall, approximately 5 feet tall, was designed to allow bathers views of the treetops, merging functionality with natural aesthetics. The fireplace facade, initially planned to match the stucco perimeter wall, was altered to incorporate a green stone hearth. This choice provided a verdant contrast against the sandy-toned compound, complementing the existing olive trees and a large jacaranda tree and further contributing to the oasis-like atmosphere. The plunge pool and hot tub were clad in Kelly green subway tile, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscaping. Low-profile, tiered travertine pavers around the pool were chosen to evoke the appearance of an ancient natural spring, rather than a modern installation. This design decision contributes to the organic and integrated feel of the outdoor space. Inside, a thoughtful design detail creates a moment of pause: in the hallway connecting the main living area to the primary bedroom and en suite, a space was specifically carved out. This area features a floor-to-ceiling window looking onto a garden. While the indoor space itself contains only a sliver of gravel and no actual plants, the intention was to create the impression of being completely open to the elements, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living and enhancing the serene, secluded ambiance of the home. #CaliforniaHome #CourtyardDesign #Travertine #GreenTilePool #OutdoorShower #LandscapeArchitecture #HaciendaStyle #VeniceCalifornia #HomeDesign

Ryan Seacrest engaged designer Jeff Andrews to create a versatile backyard space that functions as both a private retreat and an entertainment area. The resulting design for his Los Angeles home emphasizes calm, modern aesthetics and enduring style. A key feature of the design is a long, narrow swimming pool, strategically positioned to guide the eye towards the distant hills. The pool's dark, reflective surface contributes to a contemporary feel while enhancing the surrounding lush greenery. This element of symmetry, often reserved for interior design, is effectively translated to the outdoor environment. Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in the backyard's ambiance, mirroring the principles of indoor lighting. The goal was to balance practical illumination for safety with decorative lighting that highlights architectural features and creates a welcoming atmosphere for evening use. Lanterns are evenly placed along the pool's edge, establishing rhythm and structure during the day. At night, these lanterns emit a soft glow, transforming the garden into an atmospheric setting suitable for quiet relaxation or social gatherings. At one end of the pool, a dedicated seating area is established, featuring wrought-iron benches and cushioned sofas arranged around low tables. This arrangement prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The use of simple textiles, such as pillows and throws in muted colors, adds texture and coziness without disrupting the overall restrained aesthetic of the space. The landscaping surrounding the pool further enhances the design. Tall trees provide a natural frame for the area and offer privacy, while carefully maintained grass and plantings soften the formal lines of the layout. The design of Ryan Seacrest’s pool exemplifies the concept that luxury can be understated. Jeff Andrews achieved a sophisticated yet approachable backyard through meticulous attention to proportion, restraint, and thoughtful detailing. This approach has resulted in a private oasis that projects quiet confidence, designed to accommodate both daily living and celebratory events. The article also provides recommendations for poolside lighting products, such as floating solar-powered pool lights, outdoor solar big lanterns, and indoor/outdoor table lamps, to inspire readers seeking to recreate a similar serene and elegant outdoor environment. #CelebrityHomes #PoolDesign #OutdoorLiving #LandscapeDesign #OutdoorLighting #JeffAndrewsDesign #LuxuryBackyard #UnderstatedElegance #ModernDesign

The article showcases a modern lakeside pool house in Gallatin, New York, designed to accommodate four generations of a family and their guests. The initial vision for the property was a family escape, particularly during the pandemic when four generations resided together in the main house, built in 2017 by Carol Kurth Architecture. This led to the development of a separate, expansive pool house, also serving as a guest house, to meet the diverse needs of a large, multi-generational family and their community-oriented lifestyle. The design process involved a collaborative effort with Bedford-based designers Carol Kurth, AIA, Hilary Matt, and builder David Penny of East Mountain Construction Management. Gabby, one of the homeowners' daughters, played a key role in overseeing the construction. The inspiration for the pool house stemmed from a long-standing family tradition of gathering at a lake house, a tradition Gabby's father, who grew up in South Africa, sought to continue after purchasing the Columbia County property nearly three decades ago. The pool house complements the main residence while integrating with its natural surroundings, emphasizing a more casual and adventurous design approach suitable for a second home. The pool house's layout prioritizes ease of access and functionality for large groups. It features a unique design without a traditional front door, instead offering "wet-dry footpaths" that lead into a mudroom or through the pool bathroom. The mudroom is equipped with cubbies for storage and laundry facilities for wet towels. This area seamlessly transitions into the main entertaining space, characterized by vaulted ceilings and expansive glass doors that open onto a covered outdoor seating area, fostering a continuous indoor-outdoor experience. A notable playful element is a rock-climbing wall that extends from beyond the mudroom into the living room, appealing to children. Durability and child-friendliness were central to the interior design choices. High-quality vinyl flooring, mimicking wood, was installed to withstand water and heavy use. Furniture, such as the Verellen living room sofas, are covered in outdoor fabric, ensuring easy cleaning of spills. A chalkboard-covered pocket door separates the bedroom wing from the main living space, adding another interactive element. The bunk room, designed by Kurth and Matt, features timeless navy hues and full-size beds to accommodate guests of all ages. For children, the room includes monkey bars that span a wall and across the ceiling, along with individual Sazerac Stitches sconces by each bed. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat, featuring a plush bed from Muskoka Living, Kelly Wearstler side tables, Allied Maker alabaster sconces, a Katy Skelton bench, and Matouk linens. Its design incorporates extensive glass, providing views of the woods and lake, creating a treehouse-like ambiance with modern comforts. The primary bathroom continues this theme with a floor-to-ceiling slot window in the shower. Art curated by Gabby's mother, a former Guggenheim curator, is integrated throughout the house, including pieces from her personal collection and abstract works created by a family friend in collaboration with Gabby's brother. The outdoor spaces are equally integral to the family's entertaining, with an outdoor kitchen added by the pool and a sun shelf in the Wagner Pools-installed pool. The surrounding landscape by Biasin Landscape features bluestone pavers and wood planks, mirroring the house's modern aesthetic. #LakesideLiving #PoolHouseDesign #MultiGenerationalHome #FamilyEscape #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHome

Bohlin Cywinski Jackson designed the San Marino Residence, a waterfront property on Miami's Biscayne Bay for clients who own a California winery. The clients sought a home that would emphasize lush tropical surroundings and facilitate indoor/outdoor living directly on the water. The residence is situated on a narrow, wedge-shaped lot, and its design expands towards the waterfront, maximizing views and access to the bay. The architectural composition consists of three distinct linear elements. A two-story volume accommodates the primary living spaces, providing ample room for daily activities and relaxation. Adjacent to this, a single-story wing houses a guest suite and an office, offering privacy and dedicated workspaces or accommodations for visitors. A key architectural feature is the elevated lap pool, which extends dramatically into the backyard, providing a striking visual element and an elevated recreational space. The most distinctive aspect of the design is the cantilevered pool, which projects an impressive 18 feet over the home's main entry and walkway. This bold design choice creates a memorable visual statement and an architectural landmark for the property. The main living and sleeping areas are housed within the primary structure, designed to integrate seamlessly with the outdoor environment. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors are a prominent feature, allowing for abundant natural light and enabling ocean breezes to circulate throughout the interiors, which is crucial for maintaining comfort in a tropical climate. To mitigate direct sun exposure and prevent excessive heat gain, the design incorporates large roof overhangs, which provide shade and contribute to the home's energy efficiency. Inside, a large expanse of windows illuminates the staircase, connecting the sleeping quarters on the upper level with the living spaces below. This design choice ensures that even transitional areas within the home are bathed in natural light and offer visual connections to the surroundings. The overall design prioritizes a contemporary aesthetic while addressing the specific environmental conditions and lifestyle desires of the homeowners. The blend of sleek architectural lines, thoughtful material selection, and strategic orientation towards the water creates a residence that is both visually stunning and highly functional for its Miami Bay setting. The home serves as a luxurious retreat, embodying modern indoor/outdoor living with a focus on both comfort and innovative design. #WaterfrontHome #BiscayneBay #ModernArchitecture #CantileveredPool #IndoorOutdoorLiving #TropicalDesign #BohlinCywinskiJackson #MiamiHomes #LuxuryResidence

NFL star Russell Wilson and his wife, singer Ciara, have acquired a new mansion in the Denver area for $25 million, following the listing of their previous Bellevue, Washington, estate for $36 million. This new Colorado residence, despite its lower price point, is considerably larger than their former home, spanning a massive 20,060 square feet. It holds the distinction of being the most expensive home ever sold in Colorado's history, surpassing the previous record of $15.7 million set by ex-Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan. The property is situated in Colorado's Cherry Hill Village, a neighborhood that is also home to other notable NFL figures such as Peyton Manning and John Elway. The two-story estate is designed to accommodate the couple and their three children: Future, Sienna, and Win. Although the mansion features only four bedrooms, it dedicates extensive space to various recreational activities and entertainment facilities. These amenities include a game room, a private home theater, a basketball court, and a yoga room. A notable feature is the 2,590-square-foot indoor swimming pool, which comes with its own pool house. The pool house offers ample seating and large windows that provide natural light, complemented by vaulted ceilings with exposed wood detailing that contrasts with the white walls. The grounds also encompass a hot tub and a spa. Adjacent to each other, the basketball gym and yoga room offer convenient access for pre-workout stretching. The yoga room is characterized by sleek white floors and walls, creating a clean aesthetic, and features a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling mirror for form monitoring. A large window, made of sports damage-resistant glass, overlooks the two-story basketball gym, which includes one standard hoop and lined hardwood flooring. These spaces highlight the mansion's emphasis on both active and leisurely pursuits. The residence boasts an impressive twelve bathrooms in total, comprising five half-bathrooms, six full bathrooms, and one three-fourths bathroom, resulting in a three-to-one bathroom-to-bedroom ratio. According to a 2018 real estate listing, several bathrooms are elegantly appointed with natural stone countertops and flooring, effective lighting, and generous storage solutions. The primary bathroom further features a large jet-action tub. The dominant interior design scheme for most of the home consists of white walls paired with black accents, creating a contemporary feel. However, the presence of six fireplaces, exposed beams, and integrated smart storage systems contributes to a sense of warmth and coziness throughout the expansive property. A distinctive room within the mansion is the blue wood-paneled dining room, which also incorporates black accents. One half of this dining room is equipped with floor-to-ceiling shelves, which were shown filled with books in the original listing. Other walls in the dining room feature large paneled windows and glass doors that open onto one of the home's porches. The estate is set on a 5.34-acre lot, characterized by meticulously landscaped lawns and gardens visible from all angles. An outdoor stone fireplace is centrally located within a dedicated section of the garden, providing an additional leisure area. The extensive outdoor space includes a kitchen, multiple seating areas, and dining tables, offering numerous options for outdoor activities during Colorado's summer months. The European-inspired exterior of the home is clad in light brown stones, a material also utilized for some of the indoor fireplaces. The detached garage, which provides four of the nine total parking spaces, mirrors the main house's exterior and includes a guest apartment complete with one bedroom, one bathroom, and a full kitchen. This comprehensive array of features ensures a luxurious and comfortable living environment for the Wilson family. #celebrityHome #luxuryMansion #ColoradoRealEstate #homeDesign #interiorDesign #sportsStarsHomes #entertainmentRooms #EuropeanDesign #expansiveEstate

This blog post highlights a unique early 20th-century two-family residence located at 6322 5th Avenue in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, currently on the market for $1.488 million. Situated on a commercial stretch within sight of the Gowanus Expressway, the property is part of a row of two-story brick buildings constructed between 1916 and 1918. Historical records reveal a colorful past for the building, with its ground-floor commercial space serving various businesses over the decades. Early historic tax photos from around 1939 show the building as a grocery store, among other small businesses like a plumbing supply company and a furrier on the block. The property also had a connection to Marcel de Passy, a notorious confidence man known by multiple aliases. De Passy, who had a criminal record for bigamy, embezzlement, and swindling, briefly rented in the house in 1931 after his release from Sing Sing. During his short residency, he remarried and attempted to promote a new scheme involving a speedy ocean liner to the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, despite the paper noting his extensive criminal history. His stay at 6322 5th Avenue lasted approximately one year, consistent with his frequent moves. In the 1950s, the commercial space transitioned into a branch of the Taffy ‘N Terry Dance Studio, founded by acrobatic dancers Walter and Barbara Wendelken, sometimes performing as the 'Flying Wendelkens.' The studio offered dance classes for children and adults from at least 1954 until 1959 before relocating. Despite the numerous occupants and uses, the building retains significant vintage architectural details. The first-floor unit, which previously housed the dance studio, features an intact tin ceiling in the street-facing space. It includes a full bath and a kitchen at the rear, with the bathroom showcasing earlier period features such as a pedestal tub and a wall-mounted sink. The kitchen, while lacking modern amenities, is spacious and provides access to a small rear yard. The larger upstairs unit offers a flexible layout comprising three bedrooms with closets and a potential fourth bedroom with French doors opening into the living room, suitable for use as a dining room or study. All flooring in the upstairs unit appears to be vintage marbled linoleum. While some photographs reveal cracks in the plaster walls, indicating potential need for mechanical upgrades, the overall vintage aesthetic is well-preserved. A notable highlight for enthusiasts of vintage design is the circa 1930s kitchen, boasting green wood cabinets with original hardware, curved shelves, and scalloped trim. The kitchen walls feature bright yellow tiles in pristine condition, accented with black triangular and border tiles. Vintage appliances, including a stove and a refrigerator, are still present. The upstairs bathroom provides a striking contrast to the downstairs' sanitary style, with burgundy wall tiles, thin accent wave border tiles, and pink fixtures and accessories. A medicine cabinet with original lighting further enhances its period charm. Burgundy tiles and fixtures were popular from the 1920s to the 1950s, with the sink and toilet closely resembling those shown in a 1950 American Standard catalog. The cellar offers usable space for storage or a workshop, and an aerial view shows a small rear yard with landscaping potential. The property has remained within the same family since at least 1950, with census records indicating their tenancy from 1940. The property is listed by Ali Tom of Bellmarc. #SunsetPark #BrooklynRealEstate #VintageHome #TwoFamilyHouse #HistoricProperty #ArchitecturalDetails #MidCenturyDesign #HomeRenovation #NewYorkHistory

This article details a budget-friendly backyard makeover project undertaken by the Brownstone Boys, following their major house renovation. With a budget of $2,500, they transformed their urban backyard into a multi-functional space designed for both relaxation and social gatherings, particularly relevant given the increased importance of outdoor spaces during pandemic precautions. The renovation involved significant manual labor, including jackhammering concrete, relocating soil, and carrying numerous bags of sand, gravel, and excess soil. The tour of the newly renovated backyard begins with an 18-by-8-foot steel deck, constructed from steel and concrete to comply with NYC building codes for property line-to-property line structures. This deck serves primarily as an area for cooking and al fresco dining, featuring a grill and an expandable round table, with sun yellow chairs adding a pop of color. Descending from the deck, the hardscape includes a pea gravel and bluestone patio. The bluestone was salvaged from various parts of the yard, and the pea gravel was used to evoke a Mediterranean garden aesthetic. This patio area is designated for relaxing seating and a fire pit, offering a more comfortable and immersive experience amidst the surrounding plantings. A 24-inch planter box, painted matte black to match the deck, spans most of the yard's width between the patio and the building. This planter serves to introduce varying heights in the garden's design and create a private space for the tenant. Beyond the patio, the back half of the yard features a newly seeded lawn. Overcoming initial doubts, the homeowners meticulously cared for the lawn for five weeks, watering it three times daily, using a special dog-friendly and drought-resistant grass seed mix (PT Lawn Seed #769) suitable for areas with limited direct sunlight. This approach proved to be a cost-effective alternative to sod, resulting in a vibrant green lawn. Additional relaxing spots in the backyard include a hammock and two Adirondack chairs placed on the grass. The perimeter of the yard is adorned with shade-tolerant plants, selected with the help of a Brooklyn garden designer. The plant selection includes Bugloss, Hardy Geranium, Ghost Ferns, Ostrich Ferns, Echinacea, Butterfly Bushes, and two Ruby Falls, sourced from wholesale suppliers, with the expectation that they will grow to fill the space and create a lush environment. The ambiance is further enhanced by two 60-foot strings of lights stretching from the house to the back of the yard. The total project cost amounted to approximately $2,600, slightly exceeding the initial budget but significantly less than professional quotes. The homeowners express great satisfaction with the outcome, having actively participated in the transformation and now thoroughly enjoying their revitalized outdoor space. #BackyardMakeover #UrbanGardening #DIYRenovation #OutdoorLiving #GardenDesign #BudgetRenovation #BrownstoneBoys #BedStuy #Hardscaping

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles has provided an update on the ongoing renovations of her Texas mansion, which she is building with her husband, Jonathan Owens. The couple began construction on their "forever home" in September 2023, shortly after their marriage in April of the same year. Despite her recent return from a successful Olympic run, Biles continues to oversee the development of her waterfront property. Biles took to her Instagram Stories to showcase the significant progress made on the interior of the house during her absence. The kitchen now features modern white cabinets and a prominent black and white marble island, creating a luxurious aesthetic. Another image revealed what appears to be the initial stages of a walk-in wet room, characterized by glimmering floor tiles, marble walls, and a floor drain positioned near a window. A mirror selfie captured during this update showed Biles amidst construction debris, indicating that the renovation work is still in progress. Further snapshots shared by Biles highlighted recently unveiled white cabinets and drawers. These new additions could potentially be used to display her extensive collection of medals and trophies, given her status as the most decorated gymnast of all time following her performance at the Paris Olympics, or to house her wardrobe. Biles has consistently kept her fans informed about the project, previously sharing a photo in November 2023 that displayed the home's impressive wooden beams and high ceilings, expressing her excitement with the caption "eeeeeeeppppp." The renovation process has not been without its challenges. In November 2023, Biles detailed a significant setback, recounting how she spent several hours addressing an issue at the construction site. She initially anticipated it to be a brief task, but it turned into a prolonged engagement. Despite the difficulties, Biles expressed her pride in the progress made, noting that she had called her father for assistance during a moment of panic. She also playfully remarked that her husband, Jonathan, would have to deal with the final outcome, expressing hope that she had managed the situation effectively and considered all necessary aspects. Biles’s husband, Jonathan Owens, a football star, was able to take time off his pre-season training to support her at the Olympics, where she secured three gold and one silver medal, increasing her total Olympic medal count to 11 and overall international medals to 43. #SimoneBiles #CelebrityHomes #HomeRenovation #TexasMansion #LuxuryDesign #InteriorDesign #OlympicGymnast #HouseConstruction