This designer reimagined a traditional Southampton home into a 'Hamptons Au Naturel vibe'

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

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

Rye-based designer Emily Meszkat undertook the renovation of a three-story “upside down” vacation home in Weekapaug, Rhode Island, for former Westchester clients. The project aimed to create a luxurious yet family- and pet-friendly escape for a family of four, their dog, and extended visitors. The design emphasized a healthy use of color and pattern, incorporating whimsical touches while ensuring durable materials suitable for heavy traffic and a coastal environment. The homeowners, a sailing family, desired an infusion of coastal vibes without resorting to a simplistic blue and white palette. Meszkat collaborated with architect Kenneth Wieber and contractor Field + Co. to bring the vision to life. The home's 'upside down' layout positions the main living areas on the upper floors to maximize water views, which necessitated robust design choices for high-traffic zones like the stairs. Meszkat selected an indoor/outdoor runner for the staircase to withstand sand and salty shoes. Nautical elements were subtly integrated throughout, such as ship-like circular windows, shiplap, and glass tiles resembling mermaid scales. Traditional elements were given a coastal twist, including ginger jars with rattan details and rattan-wrapped brass lights. In the entryway, ginger jars with a coastal rattan twist provide a traditional aesthetic, while a durable indoor/outdoor runner was chosen for the heavily used stairs. The living room features a shiplap and marble fireplace that combines a carefree beach house feel with luxury. A pure wool rug with a nautical stripe and Pottery Barn sofas in a traditional style contribute to the inviting atmosphere. A wicker table painted in Sherwin Williams Salty Dog blue adds a pop of color. The powder room, located off the main living room, introduces a feminine touch with a pink Thibaut wallpaper that subtly incorporates blue patterns, a Kohler seashell-like sink, and a scalloped Oomph mirror. The kitchen features a custom white hood with wood accents, brass details, and Serena & Lily rattan barstools. A glass backsplash provides sparkle, and the space is painted in Benjamin Moore Simply White for a warm, crisp, and airy feel. A custom dining table by Dunes and Duchess is illuminated by a Capiz shell light. For the dry bar, Meszkat utilized Casablanca Tile with sea colors and a brass inlay, contrasting with hydrangea blue cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore’s Santorini, and elevated with glass hardware. The first-floor living space, designed for heavy in-and-out traffic from the beach and backyard parties, includes a fully equipped kitchenette with custom cabinetry by Primrose Woodworks and Lunada Bay tiles. Indoor/outdoor rugs and slipcovered sofas ensure easy maintenance. The first-floor guest bathroom incorporates blue-and-white-striped penny tiles from Casablanca Tiles, Phillip Jeffries vinyl wallpaper with a surfer vibe, brass fixtures, and a custom vanity by Primrose Woodworks. The primary bedroom, situated on the third floor for optimal views, features a custom reading nook with a green printed Thibaut fabric and Phillip Jeffries grasscloth in a hydrangea blue hue. Made Good indoor/outdoor side tables offer versatile seating. The primary bathroom maintains a serene, spa-like atmosphere with white and gray tile, porcelain resembling Calacatta marble, all-brass fixtures, and nautical lighting by Visual Comfort. The overall design successfully balances luxury, functionality, and a cohesive coastal aesthetic while introducing unexpected pops of color and pattern. #VacationHome #RhodeIslandDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalDecor #HomeRenovation #EmilyMeszkatInteriors #LuxuryLiving #FamilyFriendlyDesign #Weekapaug

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

The article details the extensive redesign of a family home in Bridgehampton, New York, executed by Rachel Sloane Interiors. The project aimed to transform a well-used property into a modern organic beauty with a laid-back appeal, balancing classic design with contemporary finishes. The owners initially considered moving due to their growing family but ultimately decided to invest in a significant renovation of their first floor, along with adding an extra bedroom and a Jack & Jill bathroom upstairs. Rachel Sherman, Principal of Rachel Sloane Interiors, guided the redesign with a modern organic style, deliberately moving away from typical Hamptons house aesthetics. Her goal was to create a natural, easy, and light environment suitable for a large family's carefree living. The design embraced the home's existing traditional architecture while subtly integrating modern elements, avoiding an overly transitional feel. The living room exemplifies this balance, featuring a white scheme complemented by natural, textured elements that allow the traditional architectural details to stand out. Subtle pops of color were introduced to add interest without overwhelming the understated style. This approach ensured the space remained both practical and visually appealing for family life. In the kitchen, despite a neutral color palette, the space feels warm and layered due to the strategic use of organic materials and textures. Calacatta Monet marble served as the initial inspiration, with the rest of the palette built around its soft, painterly colors. Unglazed zellige backsplash tiles, wicker counterstools, and plush linen pillows on a banquette contribute to an "Hamptons Au Naturel" vibe, creating a modern farmhouse aesthetic. The breakfast nook, an extension of the kitchen, features a more traditional design with large windows and built-in banquette seating, offering an inviting dining area. The dining room, previously the family room, was reconfigured to flow seamlessly from the kitchen, making it less formal and more integrated into daily life. It boasts double-height ceilings, a limewashed fireplace, and a Noguchi pendant light hanging over a travertine table, combining drama with airiness. A custom full-wall oak bar with rattan-front cabinets and decorative sconces was designed as an extension of the kitchen, featuring a rounded section to accommodate a window, which became a favorite element of the project. The bathrooms maintain Rachel's effortless, contemporary style, with charming and unexpected touches of sage green cabinetry providing vitality. Even the children's bedroom reflects the modern organic aesthetic, incorporating rattan accents, wood, and greenery to create a relaxed and connected feel. The laundry room also features muted sage green cabinetry, a rattan laundry basket, and a woven rug, ensuring consistency with the overall natural theme. The redesign successfully fuses everyday livability with relaxed and playful design, giving the home a new identity that embraces contemporary trends while remaining timeless and catering to the occupants' lifestyle. #InteriorDesign #HamptonsHome #HomeRedesign #ModernOrganicStyle #RachelSloaneInteriors #LuxuryLiving #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #DesignInspiration

This blog post details a significant renovation of a 1970s South County residence, focusing on how lighting fixtures from Metro Lighting, in collaboration with KH Interiors, transformed the home. The project was led by interior designer Krista Howard of KH Interiors and Heidi Sanders of Metro Lighting, aiming to create a practical yet elevated space for a busy family of five. The renovation extended beyond a simple kitchen update, evolving into a two-story expansion that now includes a spacious cooking and dining area, along with a covered outdoor porch. Each design element was meticulously chosen to accommodate the family's active lifestyle, encompassing sports schedules, entertaining needs, and daily functionality. The team involved architect William Cover, Lurk’s Custom Cabinets, and photographer Anne Mathias, with Metro Lighting playing a crucial role in curating the home's lighting. In the reimagined kitchen, two large orb pendants are prominently featured above dual islands, one dedicated to storage and the other to function. These orbs are complemented by onyx stone cylinder fixtures that not only echo the kitchen's stone details but also cast a soft, sculptural glow. Above the breakfast table, a sleek gold fixture introduces a contrasting element, its simplicity providing a calm balance to the kitchen's more dynamic design features, creating a cohesive and visually appealing central gathering space. The lighting design extends thoughtfully into other areas of the home, transforming even transitional spaces. A hallway adjacent to the kitchen, referred to as the “kitchen hall,” connects bedrooms to public areas. Here, lighting is strategically used to gently illuminate stone accents, turning a functional corridor into a refined and welcoming passage. This attention to detail ensures that lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose throughout the residence. The powder room and the adjacent lower-level pool changing area draw inspiration from the past, featuring brass vertical sconces reminiscent of 1940s design. These fixtures are paired with playful wallpaper to create an inviting retro-modern ambiance. The lighting in these areas is described as “quiet and classic,” designed to support the functionality of the space without becoming the dominant focal point, allowing other design elements to shine while providing adequate illumination. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the home incorporates smart lighting and automated window treatments, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency. These modern features allow the family to easily adjust their living environment, whether for hosting guests, relaxing in the evening, or quickly departing the house, all without compromising the home's timeless design integrity. Lurk’s Custom Cabinets further anchored the space with exceptional craftsmanship, coordinating finishes and cabinetry details with the overall lighting plan to ensure a harmonious visual flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Ultimately, this South County residence represents more than just a renovation; it is a testament to thoughtful design, sustained collaboration, and the transformative power of architectural lighting. The project effectively elevates not only the home’s structure and aesthetics but also significantly enhances the family’s daily living experience. Through the combined expertise of Metro Lighting and KH Interiors, a once-dated kitchen has been revitalized into a radiant and central hub for connection and comfort within the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #KitchenRemodel #SmartHome #ArchitecturalLighting #KHInteriors #MetroLighting

This article highlights a unique interior design project by Clive Lonstein in Litchfield County, Connecticut, transforming a late 1800s Colonial Revival home with a distinctive turret. Lonstein, a designer who previously worked for William Sofield, opened his own studio in 2016. His clients requested bold color, comfort, and an interesting backdrop for their growing art collection, seeking a bespoke design tailored to their tastes. Instead of extensive structural renovations, Lonstein focused on a decorating approach, embracing the architectural personality of the house designed by Ehrick Rossiter, known for his whimsical country homes. Lonstein emphasized the importance of context in his projects, subtly infusing the unique characteristics of the location into the design. The project involved a vibrant use of color, beginning with a candy apple-red front door, an aubergine staircase, and a bubblegum pink kitchen. The sitting room features moss-hued paint, reflecting the clients' desire for the rich colors often seen in English country houses. The living and dining rooms, however, maintain a white base to allow a diverse collection of art and furniture to stand out. Lonstein skillfully integrated the clients' existing furniture, reupholstering pieces and adding new ones. For instance, the living room showcases paintings by Sophie Larrimore, Caitlin Keogh, and Mary Grigoriadis alongside a reupholstered 1950s sofa, chairs by Sergio Rodrigues, and a game table and chairs by George Nakashima. In the library, a vintage Viggo Boesen chair upholstered in sheepskin complements a sofa, with table lamps from Bitossi and a desk and chair by Mira Nakashima. Upstairs, the color scheme continues with a chartreuse bathroom and a collegiate blue bedroom, echoing the hue of an Yves Klein table downstairs. Lonstein’s favorite space, the round turret room, is bathed in a dusty pink that harmonizes with the original elaborate moldings and serves as a backdrop for a richly-hued photograph by Vik Muniz. A collaborative effort with the client’s art advisor, Bridget Murphy, ensured the seamless integration of the art collection into the design. In the dining room, another Vik Muniz photograph after Gustave Courbet enlivens the neutral space, which includes sheepskin-upholstered vintage Saarinen chairs, a Noguchi light, and a 1950s Martin Eisler caned credenza. Lonstein's approach, despite his personal aspiration to minimalism, is characterized by an appreciation for the idiosyncratic, demonstrating his talent for cohesively blending diverse elements and client preferences into a unified and vibrant interior. #CliveLonstein #InteriorDesign #ConnecticutHome #VictorianArchitecture #BoldColors #ArtIntegration #EclecticDecor #HomeRenovation #DecoratorProject

This article highlights some of the leading interior designers in Britain who excel in blending the classic English Country House style with modern living requirements. The designers featured are known for their distinct approaches, ranging from opulent traditional designs to fresh, contemporary interpretations. Alidad Mahloudji, known professionally as Alidad, specializes in grand country-house aesthetics, as showcased in his Legend Room at WOW!house, which featured richly layered and inviting styles. Eadie & Crole, founded by Sophie Eadie and Fi Crole, create elegant interiors using subtle hues, natural textures, antiques, and contemporary art, also offering a collection of furniture, fabrics, and wallpapers. Edward Bulmer, an interior designer and architectural historian, focuses on heritage building restoration and environmental sustainability, using his own natural paint line. His projects include his Queen Anne home and work at Pitshill and Althorp. Nels Crosthwaite Eyre of Eyre Interiors is praised for her light and bright interpretation of English country-house style, suitable for new generations. She integrates practicality for family life with vintage textiles, art, and antique furniture. Guy Goodfellow, with over two decades of experience, designs classic interiors by combining heritage architecture knowledge with an eye for color and comfort, now collaborating with creative director Steven Rodel. His collection of fabrics and wallpapers is inspired by historic textiles. Isabella Worsley, based in London, runs a studio known for its confident use of color and pattern, celebrating British artists and craftspeople in both residential and commercial projects. Janine Stone & Co. offers a comprehensive service encompassing architecture, interior design, construction, and project management for private residences, focusing on timeless designs tailored to client lifestyles. Kit Kemp, co-founder of Firmdale Hotels, is admired for her colorful and inviting interiors. Her design studio, which includes her daughters, undertakes residential projects globally and collaborates with various design brands. Lonika Chande specializes in multi-faceted interiors for young families, blending color, texture, and pattern with practicality, often incorporating antiques and modern elements. Lucy Cunningham brings new life to classic English country-house style through pattern, color, interesting textiles, and antiques. Lucy Elworthy, a former decoration editor, designs timeless rooms that appear to have evolved over time, often collaborating with architect John Comparelli. Max Rollitt, an interior designer, furniture-maker, and antiques dealer, is recognized for his distinctive style that combines antique originals with his bespoke furniture. Nina Campbell, an OBE recipient, is involved in diverse projects including care homes and pubs, and has ongoing collaborations for rugs, tiles, fabrics, and homewares. Her eponymous shop offers chic tableware and accessories. Oliver Laws, led by Guy Oliver, focuses on elegant and timeless interiors that highlight bespoke craftsmanship, with projects including the Connaught hotel renovation. Bee Osborn of Osborn Interiors creates restful interiors that emphasize natural materials and an 'organic luxury' aesthetic. Pippa Paton Design is known for transforming historic properties in the Cotswolds into inviting modern spaces by combining spatial planning with natural beauty. Rita Konig blends traditional decoration with a fresh, modern verve, working in the UK and US, and has launched a fabric and wallpaper collection. The practice of Robert Kime, now headed by Orlando Atty, continues to create traditional yet unstuffy interiors filled with antiques and colorful textiles. Sean Symington, a rising designer, blends a building's character with elegant style, often mixing antiques with modern pieces. Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, a venerable firm founded in the 1930s, is known for quintessentially English style and undertakes diverse projects worldwide. Sims Hilditch offers a fresh take on English country-house style, working on projects including show apartments and country estates. Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill of Spencer-Churchill Designs specializes in grand English country-house style, drawing inspiration from Blenheim Palace. Susie Atkinson of Studio Atkinson creates contemporary interiors with understated luxury for private houses and boutique hotels. Thorp, celebrating its 40th anniversary, provides full architecture, interior design, and project management services for an international clientele. James Thurstan Waterworth of Thurstan brings history to life through antique finds and aged materials, creating atmospheric interiors. Todhunter Earle Interiors, led by Emily Todhunter and Kate Earle, is highly regarded for imaginative designs that balance contemporary living with historic houses. Turner Pocock, led by Bunny Turner and Emma Pocock, is admired for its creativity and confident use of color and pattern in various residential projects. Veere Grenney Associates' interiors are rooted in classical tradition, with projects spanning the UK, Switzerland, Italy, and the Middle East. Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors is known for designing large country properties with a classic, colorfully eclectic style. #InteriorDesign #BritishDesigners #CountryHouseStyle #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeDecoration #TimelessDesign #Renovation #SustainableDesign

In Southampton, New York, a pair of homeowners sought to create a custom-built, contemporary Scandinavian-inspired residence that harmonized with the natural surroundings and reflected their clean, eco-conscious lifestyle. They enlisted Sag Harbor-based interior designer Allison Babcock to bring their vision to life. The exterior of the home showcases quintessential Scandinavian architecture, characterized by its integration of wood and natural materials and an emphasis on maximizing natural light. Babcock's approach to the interior design focused on creating a light, textural, and cozy space that could be enjoyed throughout the year. She achieved this by incorporating a variety of fabrics designed to evoke warmth in summer and coziness in winter. Throughout the residence, a neutral color palette is maintained, complemented by sleek finishes, contemporary fixtures, and layered textures. Large windows ensure that each room is filled with ample sunlight, contributing to an overall radiant atmosphere. The living room, for example, exemplifies this blend of textures with an RH sectional, vintage midcentury chairs flanking a gas fireplace, and a Phillips Collection teak coffee table. Babcock ingeniously designed a slated wall in the living room, which serves to visually separate the space from a floating staircase, concealing the stairs while maintaining an open-plan feel. Babcock explains her design philosophy for the home, noting the deliberate combination of new pieces with vintage Danish furniture to introduce warmth and a sense of history. This eclectic mix is particularly evident in the primary bedroom, where a custom white bed platform designed by Allison Babcock and custom night tables by Chadhaus are paired with minimalistic vintage Limburg pendant lights. This fusion creates a space that exudes both comfort and a quaint charm, a theme consistently woven throughout the entire home. The outdoor area also received careful attention, with landscape architect Geoffrey Nimmer designing a whimsical, verdant backyard featuring cascading trees. This private space offers a tranquil retreat, further enhanced by a custom-designed sectional and coffee table by Allison Babcock. Ultimately, Babcock successfully captured the homeowners' personalities and their philosophy of clean, beautiful living. The use of custom pieces created by local artisans and craftspeople was a key element in anchoring the home to its natural environment, fulfilling a shared objective of the design team and the homeowners. #ScandinavianDesign #SouthamptonHomes #InteriorDesign #AllisonBabcock #BeachHome #EcoConsciousDesign #MidcenturyModern #CustomFurniture #NaturalMaterials

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 highlights the transformation of a 1940s Federal-style house in Nashville’s Belle Meade, which was updated by interior designer Yancey Shearouse of Yancey Seibert Shearouse Interiors. The design drew inspiration from the client Hailey Stone's fashion sensibilities, characterized by bold patterns, bright colors, and chic silhouettes, while also incorporating her husband Bryan's preference for classic, tailored styles. The challenge was to blend these differing aesthetics into a cohesive and personalized living space. The design strategy involved integrating a variety of wallcoverings, fabrics, and rugs featuring floral, geometric, and abstract motifs, with some playful elements like feathers and cowboy boots. These elements are executed in a vibrant color palette encompassing greens, blues, pinks, purples, reds, and oranges. The visual richness of these textiles is balanced by the home's foundational elements, such as hardwood floors, classic white trim, and stately millwork. Family heirlooms and antique-inspired furnishings further ground the design, creating a blend of contemporary and timeless styles. Art plays a significant role in the home's character, reflecting the couple's shared passion for collecting contemporary pieces. Shearouse ensured that the interior design provided an ideal backdrop for these cherished artworks, which are considered central to making the house feel like a home. The article then details specific rooms, showcasing how this design philosophy was applied throughout the 4,500-square-foot residence. In the living room, brilliant blue accents, including a velvet throw pillow, sculptural lamp base, and drapery trim, punctuate green expanses. A diamond-design rug in spicy pinks, oranges, and ambers introduces warmth, complementing Andy Warhol licensed prints. The kitchen features an all-white scheme with a riveted lap seam range hood as a focal point, softened by circular pendants and cane barrel-backed counter stools. Café curtains in the kitchen match the full-length drapes in the adjacent family room, ensuring design continuity. The dining room embraces fun with feathery wallcovering and sumptuous pink drapes, adding a celebratory and whimsical touch to the formal space. Louis Phillipe-style mirrors and Directoire-inspired commodes are updated with crisp white paint, gold leaf accents, and brass hardware. Vintage dining chairs from a Palm Beach estate sale are paired with Bryan’s grandmother’s antique dining table, with the original 1940s crystal chandelier maintained. The entryway introduces the home's color palette through a green and white Anna French wallcovering, a jewel-toned vintage runner, and an electric blue Schumacher ottoman. Federalist architectural details, like fanciful door transoms, were preserved, and art by Angela Chruschiaki Blehm is displayed alongside mixed media pieces. The family room presents a classic arrangement with a contemporary twist, featuring oversized lamps, an abstract painting by AK Hardeman, and a sleek waterfall-profile wood coffee table. High-voltage pinks and blues provide pops of color against a more muted palette. The primary bedroom utilizes ethereal blues for a quietly colorful atmosphere. A Modern History poster bed’s strong silhouette is softened by white linens, floral pillows, and a scallop-framed settee. A gilt-framed abstract by Alexis Walter and Visual Comfort lamps complement the bed’s delicate gold leaf details. Finally, the primary bathroom showcases pattern play with marble mosaic tile flooring and subway tile shower walls. Brass fixtures and vibrant art by Emyo bring warmth against the marble and blue Lee Jofa wallcovering. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #NashvilleHome #FashionInspiredDecor #BoldColors #EclecticStyle #ArtCollection #YanceyShearouse

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

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

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

In early 2022, Brooklyn-based designer Whitney Parris-Lamb discovered a century-old cabin in the Hudson Valley, which had remained unsold despite its potential. Her business partner, Amanda Jesse, initially harbored reservations due to the cottage's extensive deferred maintenance and haphazard additions over the years. However, Jesse recognized Parris-Lamb’s talent for revitalizing properties, and the duo, who co-founded the design firm Jesse Parris-Lamb, proceeded with the acquisition and renovation. Their firm is known for creating elegantly refined yet cozy spaces, characterized by bespoke furnishings and tactile materials like terra cotta tiles and cork wallpaper. The renovation of the 2,500-square-foot cottage was approached with a commitment to preserving its original character, a promise Parris-Lamb made to the previous owner. The rambling floor plan was largely kept intact, with one significant alteration: a doorway in the vaulted living room was relocated by four feet. This seemingly minor adjustment, suggested by Jesse, created visual symmetry and cleared the line of sight to the striking stone fireplace, unlocking the room's potential and improving furniture placement. The interior design prioritized a curated blend of existing pieces, family heirlooms, and items Parris-Lamb had collected over time. The living room, for instance, features antique Arts and Crafts chairs passed down from Parris-Lamb’s great-grandmother, now reupholstered in a whimsical Décors Barbares motif. A vintage teak-framed sofa, clad in camel velvet, and an Ikea sofa with a custom golden stripe slipcover from Bemz, highlight the emphasis on comfort for a weekend retreat. A cocktail table fashioned by Parris-Lamb’s mother from a family heirloom dining table, and a spherical Noguchi paper lantern, add personal and modern touches to the rustic space. The kitchen and dining area, an addition from the 1980s, required less structural work. The existing pine cabinets were retained, but the floors were refinished and updated with handmade terra-cotta tiles from Zia Tile in various shades of green, complemented by leather cabinet pulls from Spinneybeck. This area, which sold Parris-Lamb on the house, features warm wooden panels and a corner with floor-to-ceiling stonework housing a retro wood-burning stove. The antique wooden dining table, a bequest from the former owner known for hosting large gatherings, serves as a centerpiece, juxtaposed with a suite of mid-century George Nakashima chairs from Knoll. A custom plaster pendant by London artist Alexandra Robinson adds an organically shaped, slightly cockeyed element above the table. The overall color scheme of the cottage leans towards understated, muddy, and warm natural shades, a departure from the firm's typically bolder aesthetic. This evolved organically, reflecting Parris-Lamb’s desire for a quieter, more neutral home and a methodical process of furnishing. The house became a destination for beloved, disparate pieces accumulated over time, creating an atmosphere that feels organically sourced from antique barns in areas like Asheville or the Catskills. #HudsonValley #CottageRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #HistoricPreservation #JesseParrisLamb #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #SustainableDesign

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation