This Designer-Done Hamptons Home Is a Sophisticated Oasis for Casual Entertaining

The Ingram family, consisting of three generations and 17 members, frequently takes holidays together. To accommodate their growing family and create a shared holiday haven, John and Margaret Ingram, with their children Leanne, Katie, and Paul, decided to purchase a weekender. In 2010, Katie discovered a property on Sydney’s Northern Beaches that seemed promising. While the location offered appealing ocean views, the existing structure, a four-bedroom 1970s red-brick cottage, was dated and too small for the entire family. Interior designer Leanne Smeallie describes their initial years in the cottage as "glamping" due to its limited space, especially as the children grew into teenagers. To transform the outdated cottage into a spacious and functional holiday home, Leanne collaborated with architect Susan Rothwell and builder Mark Thompson of Contemporary Builders. The primary objective was to reconfigure the floor plan to create additional bedrooms and multi-zoned areas suitable for both intimate gatherings of two and larger family reunions of 20. The renovation aimed for a low-maintenance, Hamptons-style aesthetic. The first floor underwent the most significant changes, with the layout redesigned to include generous kitchen, dining, and living rooms. These spaces now have direct access to an extended terrace, which features both alfresco dining and sitting zones, becoming a central hub for relaxation. The original living room was converted into a luxurious main bedroom suite for John and Margaret, and two additional bedrooms were added to this level. The ground floor was designated as the children's area, featuring a bunkroom for younger children, two extra bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large covered terrace that serves as a hangout spot for teenagers. This design allows the first floor to function as the main living area, with the downstairs providing overflow accommodation during peak family visits, which typically occur for two weeks in January. For the interiors, Leanne adopted a beach house aesthetic, characterized by a simple yet durable palette. Consistency in materials, colors, and textures was crucial to maintain a cohesive coastal vernacular and enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. For instance, sandstone cladding was used on balcony pillars and the fireplace surround, while the same stone floor tiles were applied in both the upstairs living areas and outdoor spaces. A restrained cool-neutral color palette further contributed to the unified design. A personal touch was incorporated at Margaret’s request: the integration of local sandstone, a material holding sentimental value from her childhood holidays in the area. The renovation was completed in 2018, and the transformed home has been met with universal approval from the family. The increased space and thoughtful design have fostered more frequent family gatherings, allowing the entire family to comfortably enjoy their time together, reinforcing the sentiment that it is "just more fun when we are all together." #HamptonsStyle #HomeRenovation #FamilyLiving #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #FloorPlanRedesign #MultiGenerationalHome #OutdoorLiving

This blog post explores how interior designer Tamara Magel transformed a Hamptons beach house for a young New York couple, moving away from traditional nautical themes to a more modern and sophisticated minimalist aesthetic. The homeowners desired their second home to reflect the contemporary elegance of their Manhattan apartment, leading Magel to implement a design strategy that focuses on a neutral color palette augmented with dramatic, ocean-inspired elements. The transformation demonstrates that a beach house doesn't necessitate conventional seaside decor but can instead embrace a chic, minimalist approach. Magel's design philosophy integrates nature into the interior spaces. For instance, in the living room, a custom soapstone fireplace serves as a focal point, flanked by Apparatus Studio horsehair sconces. The use of Venetian plaster above the fireplace, combined with natural elements like wood stumps and shearling chairs, cultivates an outdoorsy ambiance without resorting to overt beach motifs. This approach balances sleek, contemporary furniture with organic textures, creating a cohesive and inviting space. Contrary to common misconceptions about minimalism, the design incorporates color strategically. The den walls are painted in a blue hue, imparting a warm, seaside atmosphere that is still distinctly contemporary. To further soften the minimalist aesthetic, Magel introduces brown tones through furniture and decor, such as a leather ottoman and Home Nature throws and pillows, adding layers of warmth and texture to the space. The kitchen design exemplifies a harmonious blend of wood and steel. White cabinets and stainless steel appliances maintain a clean, minimalist look, while Circa Lighting pendants above the island complement the modern fixtures. Exposed beams and wood floors introduce an earthy, grounding element, ensuring the space feels integrated and balanced rather than sterile. This combination highlights how contrasting materials can coexist to create a sophisticated and functional area. To infuse the home with a sense of luxury beach living without overdoing the nautical theme, Magel selects a few key beachy statement pieces. Contemporary paintings in blue and white contribute to a coastal feel, making the space casual yet refined and glamorous. An Apparatus Lariat light fixture offers a subtle nod to nautical influences, providing a chic and understated dining ambiance. This demonstrates how art and lighting can be used to evoke a theme subtly and elegantly. Texture plays a crucial role in creating depth and interest within the minimalist framework. Magel emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of textures, drawing inspiration from the natural elements of the beach. By pairing diverse materials like wood and knitwear, and integrating larger pieces such as an Elizabeth Dow stump or a pom-pom light fixture with smaller details like Ochre horn handles on custom white oak side tables, the design achieves visual richness without being jarring. This layered approach ensures that the minimalist spaces feel dynamic and inviting, echoing the varied textures found in nature. #MinimalistDecor #HamptonsBeachHouse #InteriorDesign #TamaraMagel #ModernCoastal #NeutralColorScheme #NaturalElements #LuxuryDesign

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

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

This article details the design and features of a 10,000-square-foot contemporary home in Naperville, owned by Dave and Gauri Patel, which skillfully blends expansive entertainment areas with private family spaces. The architectural design, led by Orren Pickell, was conceived to accommodate the Patels' serious entertaining lifestyle while also providing intimate daily living spaces for their family. The residence distinguishes between public and private zones through its layout and even its dual entrances, featuring a porte-cochère for the owners' garages and a visible circular driveway for guests leading to the main entrance. The interior organization of the home reflects this binary approach. Primary family spaces, including bedrooms, are situated on the upstairs level, intentionally kept private from guests. In contrast, the entry and lower levels are dedicated to entertainment, with the lower level offering direct access to the pool and deck. A central architectural element, a two-story rain curtain and a statement chandelier, serves to visually and functionally connect all three floors, ensuring a cohesive flow between the distinct areas. The home's design was a collaborative effort, incorporating specific requests from the owners such as a shark tank, a golf simulator, a dedicated kids’ play area, and a worship room. The architect, Orren Pickell, emphasized that this careful balance prevents the creation of cold, unused grand spaces, making the entire home functional and comfortable for the family's daily life. Interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer contributed to the home's sophisticated ambiance, employing a palette of blacks and whites with geometric shapes, complemented by splashes of silver, fuchsia, and teal to add flair and visual interest. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a statue of the Hindu god Ganesh, illuminated by the dramatic central lighting and water feature. The grand room features 22-foot-high ceilings with mood lighting and a fireplace, while the kitchen is meticulously organized. The lower level stands out as a prime entertainment zone, boasting a bar with seven leather chairs, four televisions, and a 1,500-gallon shark tank housing three sand sharks, which creates a striking visual effect when illuminated. Conversely, the upstairs serves as a tranquil retreat. It houses the children's bedrooms and the primary suite, which includes a bathroom with a central freestanding glass shower, a mosaic marble wall, and skylights for natural light. The primary bedroom itself features his-and-her closets, one of which includes a small refrigerator, and another specifically designed for Indian clothing. A fireplace in the primary bedroom is flanked by two oversized chaise longues, creating a cozy spot for the family. The overall design achieves a modern aesthetic with a warm, inviting feel, described as a sophisticated Miami style transposed to suburban Chicago. The homeowner, Gauri Patel, expresses satisfaction with the design, noting that despite its size, the house feels cozy and every room serves a purpose, fostering a sense of warmth and utility throughout. #LuxuryHome #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #EntertainmentSpaces #NapervilleRealEstate #ModernArchitecture #CustomHome #FamilyLiving #ResidentialDesign

This article details a luxury residential compound located on more than 150 acres in Maryland's Eastern Shore, designed by Purple Cherry Architects for CEO David Williams. The estate serves as a private sanctuary for family, friends, and colleagues, intended for holidays, celebrations, conferences, and reunions. The compound features a Georgian-inspired farmhouse-style main house, guest houses, a pool house, an entertaining barn, a pottery studio, a potting shed, and a carriage house, all arranged around a symmetrical grid of pathways. The sheer scale, meticulous attention to detail, and luxury finishes across all spaces classify it among the world's finest homes, particularly highlighting its exceptional capacity for entertaining. The owner's vision was to create a comprehensive hospitality experience, which is exemplified by the inclusion of not just one, but four dedicated cooking and preparation spaces, ensuring every guest need is met. The collaboration between David Williams and Purple Cherry Architects resulted in a magical estate. Cathy Purple Cherry, the founder and principal architect, provides insights into 10 key features that make this home ideal for entertaining, especially focusing on the four distinct kitchens. The main kitchen is spacious and impressive, designed with two expansive islands for socializing, working, and snacking. It features a custom Ann Morris pot rack with gleaming copper pans, a dedicated coffee station, a beverage area, a breakfast table, and a custom six-foot stainless sink. Large windows and an attached screened porch connect the space to the beautiful outdoor setting, while an upscaled potted plant introduces a tropical element. Cathy emphasizes that the main kitchen was briefed to offer serving, standing, and sitting spaces, creating a dynamic environment that combines all three functions effectively. The second kitchen is a dedicated pizza kitchen located in the basement, equipped with zinc table countertops for preparation, open shelving, and an authentic brick wood-fired pizza oven, catering to specific culinary desires. The third kitchen is a butler's pantry and prep kitchen, adjacent to the main kitchen, providing additional food preparation and storage space. This pantry incorporates a traditional farmhouse style with a central butcher's block, while subway tile backsplashes, stainless steel appliances, and industrial-style pendant lights add a utilitarian touch. Herringbone flooring completes the neat and practical aesthetic. The fourth kitchen, a guest kitchen, is designed for the exclusive use of guests, particularly families or those preferring to self-cater. It features pale wood open shelves and flooring, mirroring midcentury design elements found in the dining chairs and vintage lighting fixtures. A custom zinc island serves as both a dining and prep surface, reflecting the thoughtful planning of every detail to create a harmonious and comfortable guest experience. Beyond the kitchens, the estate boasts a double-height bar in the main house, envisioned as a 'playful end' for activities like darts and pool. This two-story, light-filled space features Douglas fir trusses and a hidden door to a basement wine cellar, enhancing the luxurious offerings for guests with architectural perfection and pieces from Currey & Company, Restoration Hardware, and Hickory Chair. A formal dining room, characterized by warm tones, varied textures, and natural materials, creates a cozy yet elegant atmosphere for dinner. Key furnishings include a custom table from Peterson Antiques, Ralph Lauren chairs, and chandeliers from Visual Comfort. The living room, with its ocean views, leverages floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors to maximize natural light and unobstructed water views. Its coastal-inspired decor, featuring pieces from Ralph Lauren, Hickory Chair, EJ Victor, and Visual Comfort, promotes relaxation. For quieter moments, a library offers a comfortable seating area with custom millwork, alcove shelves, and display spaces, equipped with O. Henry House wingchairs, Visual Comfort lighting, and a Lee Industries cocktail ottoman. The primary bedroom provides a relaxing retreat for hosts, featuring a private balcony with French doors, a fireplace, and a calm coastal palette that merges with the seascape. The estate's sprawling 150 acres include beautifully landscaped grounds, a large pool terrace, and a unique approach through farm fields and pastures, where pastoral sheep graze. The exterior of the main house reflects a traditional Georgian style with a casual feel, achieved through painted brick, vertical board and batten, and horizontal shiplap, with a white cedar shake roof designed to blend with the environment. The interior design cleverly uses millwork details to humanize the large-scale spaces, creating a feeling of warmth, comfort, and hominess despite the grandeur. #LuxuryEstate #HouseDesign #EntertainingHome #MultipleKitchens #MarylandArchitecture #GeorgianStyle #InteriorDesign #CustomHome #CoastalLiving

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

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

The Hamptons, known for its opulent beachfront properties, is experiencing a significant shift in interior design trends, moving towards a style dubbed 'quiet luxury.' This trend emphasizes authenticity, muted palettes, and understated elegance over ostentatious displays of wealth. Interior designers in the area are observing a preference for design elements that promote a sense of grounding and connection in an increasingly distracting world, focusing on creating modern, clean, and personalized retreats for homeowners. Brian Mims, founder of StudioBKM, a Hamptons-based design firm, highlights this transition, describing it as a move towards a "whisper" of luxury. This approach involves incorporating unexpected textures and finishes, along with thoughtful craftsmanship, to create softer and more intentional spaces. Examples include limewash walls and plaster finishes in bathrooms, which provide a tactile, textured surface. For a project in Sag Harbor, Mims utilized black casement windows contrasted with hand-applied Tadelakt plaster walls and custom teak shower mats, achieving a timeless, tactile, and enduring aesthetic. Clients express a desire for spaces that feel like a spa, with a longevity that avoids quickly dating trends. Sculptural organic forms and natural materials, such as linen and oak, are also gaining popularity. In the Sag Harbor home, reclaimed oak and limewashed cabinetry in the kitchen, alongside white couches, textured throw pillows, and a charred-look black wooden table in the living room, exemplify this natural material focus. Mims notes that while the design remains elevated, it is also "deeply livable," reflecting a broader desire among Hamptons residents to disconnect from the external world. Practical applications of this philosophy include integrating televisions into walls or relocating them to dedicated media rooms, emphasizing serene environments for authentic connections. Another significant trend in Hamptons interior design is the demand for statement lighting. Melanie Roy of Melanie Roy Design points out that clients are becoming more adventurous, seeking lighting fixtures that serve as artistic pieces rather than mere functional illumination. This can manifest as metallic ribbons of light, textured wall sconces, crown-like chandeliers, or crystal clusters resembling allium flowers. These bold fixtures redefine the focal point of a room, adding drama and artistic flair. Roy also advocates for layering different lighting elements to create a warm, cohesive ambiance without overwhelming the space. Concurrently, there is a notable return to color, moving away from years of neutral palettes. Clients are requesting rich jewel tones like kelly green, orange, and deep blue, often combined with ochres and rust tones, lacquers, and plaids in rugs and on walls. An Amagansett beach house redesigned by Farrin Cary of Farrin Cary Design showcases green accent walls, oversized art, and slate blue tiling, demonstrating this vibrant color trend. Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements, and the use of local artisans are central to the evolving Hamptons aesthetic. Farrin Cary observes a "leaning to represent things that were made by hand or dug out of nature," utilizing materials like stone, marble, and handmade papers. This commitment to local craftspeople and natural elements contributes to a sustainable and organic vibe within these luxury homes. Cary stresses the importance of sourcing locally, reducing reliance on mass-produced, internationally shipped items often created in less ethical environments. This movement towards homegrown, sustainable beauty is seen as a positive shift, moving away from what she terms "fast interiors" akin to fast fashion. #QuietLuxury #InteriorDesign #HamptonsStyle #BiophilicDesign #StatementLighting #NaturalMaterials #LocalArtisans #ColorTrends #SustainableDesign

Meredith Rothman, a manager at Anonymous Content, initially envisioned a Spanish Revival home but was drawn to a modern, boxy house in Beverly Hills due to its floor-to-ceiling windows, natural light, and canyon location, which evoked childhood memories. She sought the advice of interior designer Lauren Waters, who convinced her of the property's potential as a "wonderful blank canvas for intriguing furniture and great art." This affirmation led Rothman to purchase the 2,500-square-foot spec house and commission Waters to transform it into a personal retreat suitable for entertaining and showcasing her art collection, which includes works by Analia Saban, John Baldessari, and a charcoal drawing by her grandmother, Luddie Waters. Rothman emphasizes the importance of collecting art by artists she connects with. The primary bedroom, located on the top floor, is designed as a serene space, featuring a custom wall-to-wall upholstered headboard and large windows offering views of the lush hillside and a 200-year-old oak tree, creating a treehouse-like ambiance. Waters initially advocated for a neutral palette, a decision Rothman now credits for improved sleep quality, with a rust velvet bench from Lulu and Georgia providing the only prominent color accent. A second bedroom on this floor has been converted into a gym. On the main level, a previously clunky electric fireplace with crystals was replaced by an open bookcase. This new feature serves to divide the dining and living areas while also providing a display space for Rothman's dishes, books, and art objects, such as a sculpture by Lauren Tsai and ceramics by Cody Hoyt. The kitchen underwent updates including brass hardware from Rejuvenation and cabinets painted in Farrow & Ball’s Railings, a soft black with blue undertones, to inspire Rothman's culinary pursuits. The living room is furnished with a custom sofa, inspired by Adrian Pearsall's cloud design, upholstered in cream bouclé and adorned with ball pillows made from vintage silks. Complementary pieces include a vintage French standing lamp and a Charlotte Perriand stool. John Baldessari’s screenprint, _Two Sunsets (One With Square Blue Moon)_, hangs above a vintage woodworking table from Amsterdam Modern, which functions as a credenza. Sliding doors connect the living room to an outdoor area featuring a vintage André Dubreuil wrought iron Spine chair. Notably, Rothman opted against placing a television in the living room, desiring a more meditative space conducive to conversation, while a custom sectional in Erica Shamrock rust velvet in the home's ADU is dedicated to movie and series watching with her husband, Jamie Iovine, co-founder of NTWRK. Vintage Benny Linden teak chairs, reupholstered in Zack & Fox fabric, surround a concrete table from Restoration Hardware, creating an inviting workspace. Rothman, who once preferred Spanish Revival, now finds her modern home perfectly suited to her lifestyle. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HollywoodHomes #SpecHomeRenovation #ModernHome #ArtCollection #LuxuryLifestyle #BeverlyHills

This blog post highlights a three-bedroom East Hampton rental property available for short-term stays, offering a luxurious and stylish getaway experience. The house, situated on a half-acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, is presented as an ideal location for an end-of-summer vacation. The rental is currently listed at $12,000 per week during the season or $40,000 per month, with a reduced monthly rate of $20,000 after Labor Day. The interior design of the home is described as chic and on-trend, featuring high-quality finishes and decor. The main communal area is a sun-drenched great room, characterized by vaulted ceilings and skylights that enhance the natural light. A wood-burning fireplace adds to the cozy ambiance of this space. The first floor also includes a brightly lit, well-appointed eat-in kitchen, which is equipped with a large island breakfast bar and modern stainless steel appliances, including a vented gas range. A notable feature of the house is the sunroom, which boasts a stylish accent wall adorned with a tropical foliage print, creating a vibrant and contemporary aesthetic. A large wall of windows in the sunroom offers direct views of, and access to, the outdoor pool and patio area, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. On the first floor, the master bedroom is described as a private retreat, complete with an en-suite bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet. A conveniently located powder room is also available on this level for guests. The upper floor of the house accommodates two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom featuring double sinks, providing ample space and facilities for larger groups or families. The outdoor amenities are a significant draw of this rental property. The tranquil and private exterior space includes a wraparound deck, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. A heated swimming pool is available for enjoyment regardless of the weather, complemented by an outdoor fireplace for evening gatherings and a BBQ grill for al fresco dining. The property also features expansive open lawns, offering plenty of space for outdoor activities. The house's location is strategically advantageous, being just a few miles from both East Hampton Village and Sag Harbor Village, providing easy access to local attractions, dining, and shopping. The listing for this property is managed by Averitt Buttry for Corcoran Group, and all accompanying images are provided courtesy of Corcoran Group. #EastHampton #LuxuryRental #VacationHome #HamptonsRealEstate #OutdoorLiving #PoolHome #InteriorDesign #ShortTermRental #CorcoranGroup

Summer Jensen, CEO and principal of Hawk & Co., designed the interiors of a California coastal home, emphasizing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design draws inspiration from the home's sweeping views and the rustic-meets-industrial architectural style, reminiscent of Napa Valley. Jensen, influenced by her Hawaiian upbringing, prioritizes nature in her designs, ensuring ample natural light and seamless transitions between interior and exterior living areas. The home's structure, created by Brandon Architects, provided a minimalist foundation. Jensen focused on architectural cues to inform the interior design, integrating elements like a staggered batten wood-paneled wall near the fireplace that extended to disguise kitchen cabinets. Skylights, particularly in the primary bath, were incorporated to harness natural light, aiding in regulating circadian rhythms. The design also features innovative solutions like barely perceptible kitchen cabinets, veiled by the same staggered batten wood-paneling for a cohesive look. One distinctive feature is a brewmaster’s bar on the lower level, equipped with 16 microbrews on tap and illuminated by a unique lighting sculpture, offering a sophisticated and entertaining space. The living room opens directly onto a patio, further enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience and maximizing the coastal views. Throughout the home, warm wood tones create a sense of continuity, extending into the primary bedroom. The exterior of the home also aligns with the rustic-industrial aesthetic, reflecting the design inspiration from Napa Valley. The project highlights a harmonious blend of architectural simplicity, natural inspiration, and functional design, creating a striking and livable coastal retreat. #CoastalLiving #CaliforniaHomes #IndoorOutdoorDesign #SummerJensen #HawkAndCo #RusticIndustrial #NaturalLight #HomeInteriors #ResidentialDesign

Architect and designer Kartik Desai, along with his husband Zane Philstrom, transformed an abandoned mobile home property in Southold, North Fork of Long Island, New York, into a modern, cost-effective family residence with breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. The couple purchased the dilapidated property in 2012, initially using it as a campsite while they designed their dream home, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings as the primary inspiration. The design philosophy centered on maximizing the Long Island Sound view, ensuring every room and the swimming pool faced the water. To achieve this vision while adhering to budget constraints, Desai implemented several clever cost-cutting solutions. For instance, in the living room, instead of an expensive custom sectional, they opted for an affordable IKEA sectional and customized it with removable, washable linen covers from Bemz, providing both a polished look and practical maintenance for a beach house environment. The living room also features a massive 12-foot hearth fireplace that doubles as a bench, and a clever panel concealing the television. The dining room, kitchen, and living area were designed as a cohesive communal space. A continuous bank of sliding doors along the ground floor was a key design element to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. To avoid the high cost of a custom 50-foot sliding door system, they utilized four standard-width bay units. These were then integrated seamlessly with natural oak finishes, extending to cabinetry and using cabinet face material to fill the gaps, making it appear as a single, custom system. Desai highlights this as an example of making standard-sized elements look bespoke. In the kitchen, budget-friendly material swaps were crucial. The original plan for concrete floors, countertops, and fireplace surround was deemed too expensive. Instead, large format tiles from Porcelanosa were used for the floor, and quartz for the countertops and fireplace surround. These alternatives provided a similar aesthetic to concrete but offered benefits such as durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. The open kitchen design allows Philstrom, an avid cook, to engage with guests in the dining and living areas or by the pool. The bedrooms and bathrooms also maintain continuity with the home's overall aesthetic and practical design. Bedrooms offer serene views of the ocean, with furniture from brands like CB2, Blu Dot, Parachute, and IKEA. The bathroom similarly boasts sweeping views of the Long Island Sound, utilizing the same practical and durable materials as the main living areas, with fixtures from Kohler, mirrors from Rejuvenation, and tiles from Porcelanosa. This strategic approach to design and material selection enabled the couple to create a sophisticated, zen-like Hamptons home without exceeding their budget, transforming an uninhabitable structure into a modern sanctuary. #HomeDesign #CostSavingTips #HamptonsHome #ModernArchitecture #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #OceanViewHome #SustainableLiving

This article explores the extensive and impressive real estate portfolio of pop superstar Harry Styles, detailing his various residences across different locations and reflecting his journey from a boy band member to a global sensation. His estimated residential real estate holdings total $62.5 million, a significant portion of his $120 million net worth. The article provides a chronological overview of his properties, starting from his early career. His residential journey began in 2010, at the age of 16, when he rented a five-floor unit in North London's Princess Park Manor with his One Direction bandmates. This mid-19th-century Italianate-style complex, originally a mental asylum, was converted into luxury apartments in 1995 and became known for housing budding artists. The spacious unit featured arched windows, ensuite bathrooms, and access to communal tennis courts and a gym, offering a taste of the rock star life. In 2012, at 18, Styles made his first personal real estate purchase: a $4.8 million stucco house in Hampstead Heath, North London. This four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom residence, nestled behind high walls for privacy, boasts French doors, hardwood floors, skylights, and a private suite with a dressing room, alongside a fully landscaped back garden. Despite a stalking incident in 2019, Styles still owns this charming property in a celebrity-studded village. Expanding his Hampstead Heath footprint, in 2019, he acquired a $10.9 million Grade II–listed Georgian house across the street from his first London home. A year later, he added an 18th-century villa next door for $5.5 million. Speculation suggests he aims to create a massive mega-compound by combining these three structures. His first foray into U.S. real estate was in 2014, with a $4 million midcentury-modern home in Beverly Hills. Designed by architect Alejandro Ortiz, this 3,000-square-foot post-and-beam complex included five bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, a library, a gym, outdoor decks, and a 58-foot infinity saltwater pool. He sold it at a significant loss ($3 million) just two years later. The new owners demolished and rebuilt it, eventually selling it for $15 million to a Grammy-winning musician in 2022. In 2016, Styles invested in an ultramodern Hollywood Hills mansion for $6.9 million. This sleek, 4,400-square-foot estate featured four bedrooms, six bathrooms, a home movie theater, a chef’s kitchen, a penthouse primary suite, and a kidney-shaped pool. He made upgrades, including a high-end audio system and alabaster floor finishes, before selling it in 2019 for $6 million. Following this, in 2017, he purchased an $8.7 million penthouse in New York City’s TriBeCa neighborhood. Located in 443 Greenwich, a renovated 19th-century factory building known for housing celebrities like Blake Lively and Justin Timberlake, the unit features industrial-style arched windows and long, wooden ceiling-height beams. This 3,000-square-foot penthouse, with three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, remains in his possession. Finally, in 2021, while filming “Don't Worry Darling,” Styles reportedly rented a midcentury-modern home in Los Feliz, Los Angeles, with Olivia Wilde. This $2.45 million single-story residence, built in 1952, featured an open-plan design, vaulted ceilings, skylights, hardwood floors, a swimming pool, and a BBQ grill. This overview showcases the diverse architectural styles and locations that define Harry Styles’s impressive real estate portfolio. #HarryStyles #CelebrityHomes #RealEstate #LuxuryProperties #HampsteadHeath #BeverlyHills #HollywoodHills #TriBeCaPenthouse #MidcenturyModern #Architecture

Homepolish designer Mandy Cheng transformed a traditional, corporate-feeling Cape Cod-style house in Manhattan Beach, California, into a vibrant and modern home for a young family with two children. The initial state of the house was characterized by 'office colors' and commercial carpeting, which did not align with the clients' lively personalities. Cheng's design philosophy centered on injecting color, print, and mixed wood finishes to create a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic that the family could evolve with. One of the primary design challenges was achieving cohesion in the open-concept living spaces, particularly between the family room and the kitchen. Cheng addressed this by employing a consistent color palette across both areas. For instance, the dark blue used on the kitchen island was extended to the fireplace in the living room, and dusty orange throw pillows in the living room echoed the leather barstools in the kitchen, effectively tying the spaces together. The dining room provided an opportunity for a bold statement. Inspired by a small turquoise print, Cheng opted to paint the walls in Benjamin Moore’s Sherwood Forest, creating a dramatic and eye-catching effect. This choice aimed to counteract the room's inherently darker orientation within the house and infuse it with a distinct personality. Large-scale artwork and light window treatments were incorporated to balance the bold wall color and introduce a sense of airiness. In the children's bedrooms, Cheng experimented with accent walls as a means of pushing design boundaries with her clients. For the boys' room, instead of immediate wallpaper, she used Benjamin Moore’s Blue Macaw and Bluebelle paints, meticulously applying celestial-inspired decals. This approach served as a temporary solution to demonstrate the potential impact of accent walls, particularly relevant to the wife's profession in aeronautics. The nursery featured a combination of wallpaper and paint to manage the budget and create visual contrast; a pink elephant print wallpaper was used on two visible walls, while the remaining walls were painted in a soft blue. This strategic application maximized visual impact without overspending. The master bedroom was designed as a tranquil retreat. Cheng incorporated Japanese woven silk wallpaper, lush greenery, and sheepskin rugs to foster a serene atmosphere. Floating shelves were chosen over traditional gallery walls, allowing the family to display personal items and easily update family photos. The designer emphasized the use of mixed wood finishes, explaining that varying wood tones, as long as they share a similar base tone, emulate natural environments and add texture to a space. Brass brackets and wood planks on the shelves further enhanced this design element. A particular challenge arose with the vintage spindle-back chairs for the formal living room when an order went wrong, resulting in an incorrect stain color and seat cushion. Cheng resolved this by having a wood finisher bleach the chairs repeatedly until they matched the desired aesthetic, highlighting her adaptability in unforeseen circumstances. The room was completed with a significant print by her brother, photographer Toby Cheng. Finally, for the kids' bathroom, Cheng prioritized a fun yet budget-friendly design. She opted for bold floor tiles in a small area and used standard wall tiles, demonstrating that impactful design can be achieved without excessive spending, especially in less-frequented spaces. The overall project showcases Cheng's ability to transform a dated house into a vibrant, personalized home through thoughtful color coordination, strategic use of accents, and innovative problem-solving. #ManhattanBeachHome #HomePolishDesign #AccentWalls #ColorPalette #OpenConceptLiving #ChildrensRooms #MasterBedroomDesign #MixedWoods #CustomFurniture