‘It’s much harder than it looks,’ concedes Victoria. ‘New builds can feel a bit too perfect. In this case, we asked architecture firm Murphy & Co to loosen things up a little, make the house feel older. Older houses don’t always make sense; sometimes the flow is a little off; a small room might be sequestered off a bigger space; shapes are asymmetrical. We knew we had to undo things a little because if it was too sensible it wouldn’t feel old.’

Not that this house is a pastiche of other heritage homes in the area – instead, it has an evolved, lived-in feel that’s hard to date, and that’s what its owners wanted. ‘Relaxed, unpretentious, and not remotely grandiose’ is how Victoria describes the home, which features wooden balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, screened verandas, a classic all-American porch, and a wooden dock in the garden leading straight onto Minnehaha Creek.

A traditional palette of off-whites, rusts, and caramels set against oak flooring and timber windows provides a grounding backdrop across three stories, with the main living spaces sited on the middle floor.

Yet there are a host of left-field decorative choices too, from the flame-stitch armchairs in the sitting room to the sculptural Moon light in the entryway – part light fitting, part art installation. That contrast has come out of this home’s surprising design journey, which gently changed course from inception to completion.

The family had commissioned Prospect Refuge to build their home just as the pandemic struck. ‘The wife mentioned that she loved the casual but tailored look of a white button-down shirt,’ recalls Victoria. ‘That comment stayed with me, and we drew up plans for a house that reflected that sensibility. I knew they wanted something understated, as opposed to the decorative equivalent of a ball gown.’

A little later, the family decamped to Barcelona and the build was put on ice. ‘When they eventually returned to pick up the reins, they wanted to inject some color and joie de vivre,’ continues Victoria. ‘Their time in Spain had altered their perspective; the family’s energy had changed. I realized that we had to add jewelry to that shirt if we were to create a home to truly reflect their passions.’

That meant going back to the drawing board, focusing on furniture, fabrics, hardware, and lighting to inject something a little unexpected. In the living room, a mosaic table made from corn husks is the work of a Spanish artist the family came across while abroad.

One of the powder rooms features a vanity covered in beautifully mismatching tiles, inspired by Mediterranean design (‘Each one feels like a painting; I could get lost in them,’ says Victoria), while the dining room has been given edge thanks to highly personal wall art by Ginny Sims, whose visual narrative contains subtle nods to the family’s story.

The snug features a chimney breast finished in hand-fired tiles – perhaps a subconscious reference, says Victoria, to a sense of Scandinavian coziness inspired by her husband’s Danish heritage. There’s an emphasis on texture that has an almost 3D feel, whether large-scale photographic prints, custom-designed wall sculpture, or the tactile marbleized wallpaper that brings movement to the smaller study, with its utilitarian but warm oak desk stretching between two walls.

‘There are a lot of decorative influences but a cohesive color palette and an eye for scale balance them all out,’ explains the interior designer. ‘Everything is a dance. If you turn one dial up, you have to turn another down. For example, sculptural shaping only sings when you allow it space.’

The result is a home that easily pairs classic elements with experimental; graphic silhouettes with undulating shapes. It all adds up to something that Victoria describes as ‘perfectly imperfect’ – perhaps the very definition of a new house gently made old.

The home's interior design also embraces the heirloom look and feel, with layered, comfortable transitional style and an eclectic mix of vintage furniture. 'The brief was very straightforward,' says interior designer Melissa Lee, of Bespoke Only, 'the young family, living and working in New York City, wanted a homey, cozy country abode that feels lived-in and personal.'

Take the tour as designer Melissa highlights the key elements that helped her get the look.

There's a warm welcome from the off in this house. The front door is painted in an earthy red (try Benjamin Moore's Country Redwood for a similar shade), and in the entryway beyond are some charming cottage elements, including a 1940s Fritz Hansen rocking chair, quirky rug, and a fresh, leafy wallcovering with a painterly touch.

'The Springs district is a quiet area celebrated for its artistic heritage,' adds Melissa. 'This setting inspired a design that caters to the authentic and unpretentious atmosphere of the area. The approach was both tender and precise: to craft a home that felt inherited rather than installed, imbued with patina, memory, and a distinctly human scale. What results is a home not designed to impress, but to receive.'

The covered back porch is equally inviting. It's used as a garden room and is simply furnished with a few well-chosen new pieces alongside the clients' existing favorites, with rattan and bamboo furniture, and sisal flooring all perfect choices for a room that links indoor and outdoor worlds.

'We loved the opportunity this home presented to really embrace our very own design ethos: a space that, like a well-loved novel, grows richer with time and touch,' says Melissa. 'It is both a beginning and a continuity – a canvas shaped as much by restraint as by resonance.'

Strong midcentury furniture gives the living room a real sense of tradition. The two armchairs are early 1940s Jindrich Halabala designs, and the Sergio Asti rosewood coffee table dates from the 60s. The Maiden Home sofa is new, but it reflects the midcentury styling.

'Rather than impose a singular narrative, the design unfolds as a collected anthology: vintage furnishings gathered over time, no theme; art and ceramics layered not for visual punctuation but for rhythm,' adds designer Melissa. 'Each object exists not as ornament, but as evidence, of travel, of intuition, of memory and of life itself.'

The existing kitchen was in good shape, and instead of a full refi,t Melissa opted to paint the cabinets and add a new backsplash of white subway tiles. She also sourced two iconic vintage Alvar Aalto K65 stools for the kitchen island, adding a vintage bell pendant above to tie the look together.

Light wood flooring makes a forgiving and easily maintained surface for family living and adds a contemporary update to the space.

A standout element of the design is the custom millwork, including a Shaker-inspired bench in the dining room.

'This piece evokes the simplicity and grace of a church pew and, alongside other carefully curated elements, enriches the space architecturally and enhances the vintage program,' says Melissa.

The slab-top Brazilian trestle table dates from around 1960, and the oak dining chairs are Victorian antiques and have been reupholstered in mustard velvet.

Helping to give the primary bedroom a crafted look, the main event is Birch Lane's Benbrook spindle bed, which, Melissa explains, 'perfectly echoes the heirloom feel the clients desired for this project'.

She sourced a 1970s arched rattan vanity with mirror, and says, 'One of the joys of designing this home was selecting an eclectic mix of vintage furniture, gathered with a sense of freedom and creativity, to form a spectrum of different eras and styles, to create a layered and storied look.'

At the other side of the bedroom, a sumptuous chintz print window seat offers a versatile built-in storage solution with a pretty (and comfortable) face.

'Without altering the home's original structure, the design leans into a quietly radical softness,' says Melissa. 'The choice of furnishings played a key role in achieving this effect.' She contrasts the large-scale chintz seat cushions with a smaller-scale sprig print wallpaper, layering up the florals with confidence and style.

The cottage florals continue in this guest bedroom. 'We drenched it in a floor-to-ceiling floral pattern wallpaper with windows framing the wilderness on the outside,' says Melissa. 'Here, the outdoors do not frame the home – they continue it.'

The distinctive blue floral print wallcovering is the Bird design from Watts 1874, with a pair of leather chairs and a distinctive table lamp providing the vintage elements and a warm color contrast.

'The home's outside spaces are just as important as the indoors,' says Melissa. 'The clients inherited a beautifully lush landscape, inspired by an English secret garden aesthetic with wild flower meadows, climbing roses, and winding narrow paths lined with lavender and other native blooms with loose, organic movements. We really wanted to lean into this soft, romantic feel.'

Melissa selected two umbrellas from Business & Pleasure, while at the other side of the yard the lounge chairs are from Gubi, with an outdoor sofa and side tables from Sika Design.

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Interior design: Bespoke Only
Photography: William Jess Laird

‘There can be a tendency in the U.S. to favor schematic, structured schemes,’ she says. ‘Here, I learned that embracing a slight sense of imbalance makes for more interesting, dynamic design. There’s no fun in everything looking perfect.’

That philosophy guided her transformation of this home in Atlanta, a 1990s property close to one of the city’s parks. The house design was a study in contrasts: ‘There was heavy stone, brick, and various types of wooden beams, as well as an intricate iron staircase,’ says Sally.

Her clients, a retired couple, sought a home that would function effortlessly – both as an elegant yet intimate space for their daily lives and an expansive retreat for their family and guests. ‘It was vital that every room had a clear purpose so the entire house was used. We wanted it to feel cohesive rather than cavernous,’ she explains.

Sally began by softening the architectural features to improve the sense of flow. The pine floors were stripped to achieve a paler, more natural finish, while in the kitchen and breakfast room, a white slurry wash helped harmonize previously discordant stone and brickwork. In the adjoining sitting room, new iron-framed glass doors flood the space with light and create a seamless connection to the pool and garden.

Sally and her clients took a detailed approach to defining each room’s purpose. A pantry was turned into an elegant study for the wife, while one of the reception rooms became a snug designed as the couple’s private retreat.

While the sitting room adjoining the kitchen was envisioned for breezy, alfresco-inspired entertaining, the front-facing sitting room has a richer, cozier feel that lends itself to cooler months. Here, tobacco-hued raffia walls add depth and warmth, offering a textural backdrop to art and ceramics. ‘I factored in benches and stools that would double as seating,’ says Sally.

Sally was intentional in decorating with antiques to anchor the design. ‘The owners wanted to start fresh here, so antiques were essential in bringing a sense of history and soul,’ she says. The resulting collection spans continents and eras: a 19th-century French enfilade in the snug provides storage for games; a Dutch vitrine cabinet in the sitting room displays family objects; and Italian and English pieces lend patina throughout, suggesting a home that has evolved naturally over time.

Equally important to the design is the art, which serves as a defining feature of the interiors. In the entrance hall, a series of botanical prints by Kate Friend set the tone for the colors used in the adjacent rooms.

‘Art was a starting point rather than an afterthought,’ says Sally, who also helped source pieces for the bathrooms and kitchen, where a bold oil painting subtly elevates an otherwise relaxed, organic aesthetic. ‘I like the balance of the vibrancy of the painting and the earthiness of the étagère we hung on the other side of the window.’

Landscape designer Alec Michaelides beautifully interpreted the clients’ vision for the garden, while Sally’s interiors echo the surroundings with touches such as vintage botanical fabrics, antique Turkish rugs, and richly tactile finishes. Her instinct for contrast is evident throughout: in the dining room, teal-hued doors create a striking dialogue with toffee linen slipcovered chairs, while in a bedroom, canary yellow corduroy headboards pop against slightly acidic green walls.

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For Sally, the greatest reward has been experiencing the home as her clients intended. ‘They are incredibly generous, gracious hosts,’ she says. ‘Being invited to their gatherings and seeing the house full of life is the best testament to the design – it’s being used, enjoyed, and lived in exactly as we envisioned.’

In Marin County, in the San Francisco Bay area of California, there are breathtakingly beautiful ocean views from almost every room. It was recently renovated, with the aim of elevating the design and creating a subtle coastal style decor to match the property's picture-perfect setting. However, there were other factors to take into account, besides the location, as interior designer Elizabeth Cooper explains.

'The number one project must-have was that it be a modern, coastal, serene house that’s comfortable and inviting – not cold or sterile,' says Elizabeth, who picked up the brief in 2019. The owners were great friends of hers, having worked together on their previous properties, so there was already an understanding of style and intent, which made the whole process easier.

Based in New York and San Francisco, Elizabeth Cooper offers a high-end, full-service residential design firm, equally at home working on city apartments, East Coast beach houses, and mountain lodges. She’s known for creatively mixing periods, styles, colors, and patterns and feels that houses are a very personal reflection of the people who live there, working closely with her clients to reflect their unique aesthetic sensibility.

In the kitchen, it was the clients who led the design decisions. 'The wife really had the vision and pushed me to go for a truly modern kitchen – and I’m so happy that she did,' says Elizabeth. 'She wanted high gloss kitchen cabinetry with plain fronts and no hardware.'

In fact, this sophisticated, pared-back look is the perfect way to frame the views of the bay.

'The homeowners had a very clear vision for their house – coastal modern. The incredible water views, from almost every room, really determined the color palette,' says Elizabeth.

Behind the pure white kitchen island, a blue-gray La Cornue range and hood provide just a hint of color, while staying within the natural coastal color scheme.

'I love the custom design and overscale size of the Remains Lighting milk-glass pendants, the La Cornue range, and the Soane Britain counter stools juxtaposed with the very modern cabinetry,' adds Elizabeth.

Open plan to the main kitchen, the eat-in kitchen is a place for relaxed family meals and chats.

'I love the relative simplicity of the furnishings in this space with its many windows overlooking the bay and wall of doors that open onto the terrace and pool,' says Elizabeth.

'The crisp white color and shape of the Howe London chairs work well with the beautiful wood, and angled ends, of the dining table from RW Guild. And we selected the Apparatus light fixture because there’s a lot of open space in its design, and it doesn’t block the view.'

Anyone looking for inspiration for a modern coastal living room will find it right here, in this elegant and tranquil space. Besides the absolute gift of an ocean view, designer Elizabeth makes the most of the colors, textures, art, and furniture in the space to achieve the modern coastal aesthetic, mixing antique furnishings, mid-century pieces and contemporary items to perfection.

'The limited, serene coastal color palette resonates with all of the bay views outside – white/ivory greys, all shades of blue,' she says. 'We chose warm but light wood finishes and a beautiful plaster decorative wall finish that I love – it’s like the interior of a shell. We intentionally kept the upholstered furniture low, so as not to block the view at all.'

Pulling the whole scheme together, and an artwork in itself, is a beautiful plaster shell form central light fitting, by Stephen Antonson at Liz O’Brien in NYC.

'The dining room is open to the living room, so we really wanted the two spaces to flow together beautifully,' explains Elizabeth. The specialist plaster decorative wall finish (by Caroline Lizarraga) continues from the living room, helping to unify the two areas. In terms of aesthetic, there's still the coastal feel, but here it's more of a streamlined, elegant look.

'We were quite inspired by townhouses and flats, in London and Paris, that have very traditional exteriors but modern and light interiors,' says designer Elizabeth. 'We were also inspired by the interior coastal color palettes of houses on the eastern end of Long Island and Nantucket. I’ve worked on several projects there, and the wife is originally from Boston, so those New England coastal color palettes really resonated with both of us for this California house.'

In a pared-back room scheme like this, details are all important. Elizabeth partners a mid-century credenza and antique chairs with a Rose Uniacke Draper's Table and a branching bubble light fixture by Lindsey Adelman. The astonishing painting is by Jamie Nares at Kasmin Gallery.

This may be an elegant and beautifully curated home, but first and foremos,t it's a family house designed to suit life with two young children and a dog. 'Our vision was comfortable and cozy yet chic! No sharp edges, and plenty of durable fabrics to withstand family life,' says Elizabeth.

The family living room perfectly sums up that approach, open to the kitchen on one side, and the pool and outdoor eating and sitting space on the other. With the bifold doors open, it's ready to make the most of all that California can offer in terms of indoor-outdoor living.

The sofa and large ottoman are from Verellen.

Look how effectively and stylishly a few well-chosen pieces of furniture can turn an ordinary entryway into a special space full of personality. Whether for a reading nook or simply a quiet resting place away from the busy areas of the home, thinking carefully about this often overlooked space can transform the feel of the whole home. The striking black cabinet is a mid-century cocktail cabinet.

'It’s a relatively simple entry, so we kept it simple,' says Elizabeth. 'The soft grey Holland & Sherry wallpaper draws one in, with direct views into the living room and the bay views outside. The wallpaper is carried down the first hall and up the stairs to the second floor hall.'

When a bedroom has a view this beautiful, it makes sense to keep the furnishing and decor neutral and simple, to allow the ocean to take center stage.

While the colors are soft whites and creams, the shapes here are strong, with a bed from Mitchell Gold, chair from Ralph Pucci, and button table from Howe London. The artwork above the fireplace is by Elliott Puckette, Kasmin Gallery, and that above the chair is by Kinuko Imai Hoffman, Gerald Bland.

'We wanted the bathroom to relate to the beautiful views of the bay and the foothills in the landscape outside,' says designer Elizabeth. 'And to have a spa-like feel.' Well, with a corner window over scenery like that, we predict many long, relaxing baths ahead!

All fixtures and fittings are by Waterworks, with marble from Exquisite Surfaces throughout and sconces from Urban Electric.

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Interior design: Elizabeth Cooper Interiors
Photography: Francesco Lagnese, styling Howard Christian

Built in the Tudor Revival house style in 1929, the home had stayed in the former owner’s family for around 50 years. ‘In that time, they had done almost nothing to it,’ says Jessica, who runs Jessica Nelson Design while Scott also works at the firm.

‘We were really looking for something that was almost untouched because I wanted to put my stamp on it. The house had received a fresh coat of white paint on the walls but it was otherwise very plain. There was no stain on the floorboards and we didn’t even have outlets in the bathrooms. But it was in great condition,’ she adds.

The move had been prompted by Jessica and Scott’s growing children, Gemma, now eight, and Graham, five, who would soon be on their feet and eager to explore.

‘We had been living about 15 minutes across town, but the house was on a busy road,’ says Jessica. ‘The appeal of this property is that it’s at the end of the street and right next to a park.’

But despite its quaint allure, the house had actually been on the market for some time. ‘The layout was tricky,’ explains Jessica. ‘It had a tiny kitchen on the side of the house and at the bottom of the stairs were five doors, making for a chaotic floor plan. Upstairs bedrooms were connected through Jack and Jill doors that meant you had to go through one to get to another.’

Without too much upheaval, Jessica and Scott were able to replan for better functionality and layout while also carving out square footage within the gabled roof.

Downstairs, a wall was removed to make a joined kitchen and living area. Upstairs, a corridor was created for access and, by adding a staircase, the family were able to make the attic space a family room with bunk beds as well as a place for Jessica to work. ‘We’ve gained 500 square feet up there and it’s become one of our favorite parts of the house,’ she enthuses.

While the lower ceiling heights and cottagey feel of the architecture might naturally encourage a choice of paler tones, Jessica felt a bolder, more dramatic approach was necessary.

Demonstrated to most striking effect in the hallway, Jessica explains her choices: ‘After we moved in, I had decision fatigue so painted it white but in adding the staircase up to the attic, we had lost a window, which I was struggling with. Then one night in November, I got a can of dark green paint and just started painting the walls myself. It’s now become this jewel-box moment where the artwork, especially with its gold framing, really sings. It makes me happy now every time I walk through the hallway. And from there, I continued to embrace the moodiness of the house and everything snowballed as I added more colors and layers.’

Their former home being of ‘opposite dimensions’ to this one, Jessica decided she wanted to start afresh with all the furnishings.

‘I found lots of pieces on 1stDibs and Chairish, and a ton of things on Etsy. My dining room chairs are from Poland but the seller was happy to disassemble them and ship them over. The pale green velvet accent chair was something that I hesitated on, later to regret, only to find it came up for sale again three months later on Facebook Marketplace and, fortunately, it was only a 30-minute drive away. I’ve also really lucked out because my kids love coming antiquing with me. Daughter Gemma picked out a lot of the artwork for her room from estate sales and vintage stores in Seattle.’

Outside, a timber deck has been added to encourage outdoor living all around. ‘The climate here is pretty similar to the UK, but we have two heaters and a firepit so the deck gets used for entertaining even in wintertime.’ In the garden beyond, vibrant borders curve around the manicured lawn.

‘I love gardening and we’ve now put in some raised vegetable beds so every year the kids pick out what we will grow and help me dig up the produce in the spring.’ A house that has evolved to nurture family life, the Nelson stamp has truly made its mark.

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Combining the whimsical decor trend with everyday functionality, White Arrow's mission was to ensure the space spoke to the whole family. The 2300 square foot penthouse boasts four bedrooms, and each feels representative of its occupant, balancing whimsy and softness with refined sophistication.

Transforming a once clinical, industrial space into a serene and joyous family home, Keren said, 'The clients have three young kids, and we considered them when designing a home for our clients. We updated the developer’s hard-edged and high contrast finishes into an environment that felt softer and playful.'

When asked what her favorite room in the house was, Keren said she loved the kitchen best. 'I love the kitchen! We created custom cabinetry in a bleached maple alongside aluminum cast hardware by Australian designer Studio Henry Wilson and a refreshing green marble in Calacatta turquoise.'

There's a real balance of color and texture, the luxurious green marble and playful powder pink contrast yet harmonize, uplifting and refreshing a sometimes clinical space with a dose of fun. Matching the backsplash, the marble kitchen island has been paired with a trio of abstract modern bar stools. 'Playful stools by Jack Rabbit Studio and our client’s existing artwork really make a bold impression,' explains Keren.

Despite the room edging more towards a more minimalist kitchen, it still feels interesting and warm due to the pink kitchen cabinets, marble countertops, and use of playful decor.

When designing the space, White Arrow opted for built-in storage options that hide away clutter and mess. The clever color choice allows the space to still feel fun (despite it being on the sparser side), proving there's no real need to incorporate lots of decor in the kitchen if your materials do all the talking. The powder pink not only frames the space and welcomes you in, but nods to the overall vibe of the home as a place of joy and lightheartedness.

The top floor of the duplex was purposefully designed to contrast with the lower floors. The dining room is an example of this, with its sleek wood surfaces and mid-century furniture, it's a lesson in warm yet pared-back design.

Abstract shapes adorn the space, from the statement dining table with a unique base to the abstract midcentury pendant, the room is minimally decorated, yet a feast for the eyes. Keren said, 'We enjoyed experimenting with cooler tone finishes on the top floor – chrome, mirror, hand-blown glass, bleached maple, bold Calcutta turquoise marble, and cast aluminum hardware.'

The pink console, wavy candleholders, and angular light nod to the whimsical feel without taking the theme too far, perfectly balanced by the chic wood finishes.

The living room is invitingly plush and soft. The large powder blue sofa is undoubtedly a statement that encourages you to sit and relax, as are the quilted modern armchairs that feel contemporary yet equally as family-friendly.

A lesson in fusing sophistication with comfort and practicality, the space feels artfully curated while still accessible for children. Like all good pastel room ideas, the color is evident without overwhelming. The colorful rug brings the perfect amount of playfulness that's balanced by the softer pops of color and the sleek chrome coffee table.

The described 'softness of the lower floors' is particularly evident in the master bedroom. The cloud-like wall mural sets the tone, giving the bedroom a sense of airiness and relaxation that's so fitting for a sleep space.

Despite being a very pink bedroom, the rest of the decor is neutral, from the boucle bed frame to the warm-toned geometric rug; these sophisticated choices prevent the space from feeling overly saccharine. An extra layer of sophistication, the delicate chandelier is an intricate addition to balance out the bedroom's softness.

The boucle armchair paired beside the pink console brings another layer of softness that's carefully balanced with the slickness of the furniture. The subtle gold accents and art bring a touch of luxury that makes the room feel retreat-like and high-end.

'Throughout the home, the palette is refreshing and at other times, calming – filled with contemporary art and wallpaper, locally made design pieces, a mix of reflective '70s Italian lighting, and furniture; they all work seamlessly alongside custom White Arrow-designed pieces,' Keren explains.

The home has been decorated with wood throughout. Using white oak, White Arrow wanted to make the space feel refined but also ensure it endures years of wear and tear.

Keren said, 'We designed a custom white oak Primary closet, a new white oak connecting staircase with curved detailing, refinished the floors, selected lighting and hardware throughout, and revised the home’s design detailing to bring in curves where possible – including window wells, as well as numerous decisions to maximize storage for the active family.'

When describing the bedrooms on the lower floors, Keren says they contrast with the sleek, industrial feel of the top floor. 'In contrast, the colors and patterning become more saturated on the lower floors, including a bold, immersive scenic mural, hand-drawn wallpapers, and graphic rugs and window coverings in the kids' rooms.'

The wallpaper idea in the children's room is playful and brings the perfect amount of intricacy without overwhelming the space, balanced by the abstract colorful rug and the curved wood furniture.

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Nowhere is this more true than the couple's beloved home in the Berkshires, Massachusetts, just over the state line from New York. 'We are more chilled here, it’s not a fancy place, but a getaway from our busier lives in New York City,' Robert says. 'We love the area's antiques, its art, its interesting people, and its relaxed way of life.'

All of which are distilled into this home's transitional decor, which has had a recent refresh. 'We bought the house back in 2001, and have decorated it a few times since then. It had gotten to the point it needed another paint job,' Robert says. 'It's now a little more traditional on the outside and cool on the inside.'

Old, new, antiqued, contemporary, here's how the Novogratz have made a masterclass in melding them together.

The living room sums up the Novogratz approach to design perfectly: if you love something, you can find a way to make it work. Placing mid-century storage with a gigantic antique mirror, and a graphic area rug might seem unlikely, but they all work together for a few reasons.

Firstly, they were all handpicked by the couple. 'The mirror we bought in St Tropez after too much to drink – it was such a huge piece, but it had to stay there,' Robert says.

Secondly, the neutral backdrop calms the space down. 'The walls can handle this sort of mix,' Robert says. 'The Simply White paint by Benjamin Moore is a warm and light shade that adds a little airiness.'

And thirdly, it's the scale. 'The mirror is obviously massive, but that's why it works. There is nothing apologetic about it,' Robert says. 'It commands your attention.' It creates a focal point against which everything else becomes a supporting character.

Another space, yet another show-stopping antique mirror, this time in the dining room.

'The mirror is one of those objects we’ll never sell,' Robert says. 'We bought that over 20 years ago, and just love it.' Of the overhaul of this dining room and reading corner, he says the aim was to pare it back.

'We kind of wanted to make it a bit cleaner, with less stuff,' he explains. 'This house has great light, so we needed to bring some color in, which comes from the chairs and the dotted rug. It's hard to mix and match this sort of thing, but again, white is a good backdrop as it gives you freedom to play around with bolder pieces in front of it.'

'I'll admit, the kitchen is a little dated – we did it 20 years ago,' Robert says. 'But it works well, and we keep it fresh with the art on the walls.'

Decorating with art is an unexpectedly easy way to make a kitchen feel more relaxed, less functional, more curated, and more like a place you want to spend time in. 'This is a very relaxed room, and art helps with that lack of formality,' Robert says. 'And while these pieces may not seem related, they're both by British artists, which is a sort of theme between the two.'

If you're planning to use art in your kitchen, Robert has some words of advice. 'Make sure you get it framed – you don't want a canvas in a kitchen,' he says. 'The opportunity for splashes and damage is too great.'

It's not just a white backdrop that allows you to play with pattern and different decor styles within a room. 'I love color, and I love this particular shade of blue paint from Benjamin Moore,' Robert says (he couldn't remember exactly what it's called, but our guess was probably Blue Diamond).

'Matching the tones of the sky, it puts people in a relaxed and happy mood as soon as they see it, meaning they're more accepting of everything else going on in the bedroom,' Robert says.

In the guest bedroom, there are more choices made that it's hard to imagine working on paper, but they do, here. A mid-century style bedframe, a Victoriana-style ceiling light (part of the new Novogratz collection for Pooky), and modern art on the walls.

'But it works because of the tight color scheme,' Robert says. 'Pink and green, and not straying too far from them, helps to bring everything together. This is a favorite of all the guest rooms for people to stay in.'

The Novogratz children are all grown now, but there is still a place for them in the family getaway home. 'We've always used sophisticated art in a kids' room – never kiddie stuff,' Robert says. 'I think people are never too young to develop a taste for art.'

He admits that this approach isn't for everyone. 'We once rented one of our homes to Julia Roberts and the art in the kids' rooms was too intense for her – she took it down,' he says.

Running between all the bedrooms on the upper floor is this photo-filled entryway, bursting with treasured memories.

'That’s all the family on the wall, and for years we kept adding to it,' Robert says. 'Recently, I took them all down and repainted the wall and rehung the frames.'

'A lack of uniformity is what makes this gallery wall work so well,' Robert says. 'This house needs non-matching frames, as it's such a relaxed space. If you free yourself from those rules you think you need to stick to, you have a lot more room to make a house feel like a place your shoulders can drop.'

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Robert and Cortney Novogratz's style is anything but safe. It pairs different eras, different vibes, different cultural references. But it works because it's almost always against a neutral backdrop, there is space between each piece, and they're not afraid to play with scale and have eye-catching centerpieces. Here's what to buy to allow that same sense of confidence and playfulness.

The Zaferiou House stands proud within a scenic woodland on the west bank of the Hudson. A jaw-droppingly beautiful retreat that feels aligned with its stunning natural surroundings, it's a shining example of Wright's iconic architectural prowess and ability to blend the contemporary with the organic. Honoring Wright's long-standing legacy, its past owner and interior designer, Sarah Magness, brought its interiors back to life.

When asked about why Sarah bought the mid-century modern home, the founder of Studio Magness explained. 'I’ve always been deeply drawn to spaces that live in harmony with their surroundings, and Wright’s philosophy speaks to that in such a profound way. When I first saw the Zaferiou House, I felt an immediate connection – not just to the architecture, but to the spirit of it. The idea of restoring something so personal and historic, while also making it feel alive and relevant again, became a real passion project for me.'

Iconic architecture is at the heart of all midcentury modern ideas; it's what inspires the pared-back, curated approach when it comes to decorating this style of home, carefully balancing textures, lines, and shapes in harmony with the angular architecture.

Dubbed the Zaferiou house in memory of its original owner, Socrates Zaferiou, the construction of the home was completed in 1960, a year after Wright died. Sarah said, 'Discovering the home felt like finding a hidden gem. The meticulous preservation by the original owner, Socrates Zaferiou, made it possible to continue its restoration and maintain its original glory. Working from Wright's original drawings, I was able to honor his vision while making subtle updates to ensure its continued importance as a historic American home.'

Perhaps the most striking room in the house, Sarah says, the living room is one of her favorite spaces. 'It feels like the heart of the house, both literally and emotionally. You’re wrapped in warm wood and filtered sunlight, with this incredible fireplace anchoring the space. I love sitting there early in the morning with coffee or at night with just the fire going – it’s peaceful and grounded.'

Every room in the property feels harmoniously connected yet unique, tied together with authentic period furniture and antique decor. Plenty of midcentury seating, antique prints, and earthy textures and colors complement the deep wood paneling and bring a sense of comfort and sophistication.

Fitted with wood kitchen cabinets and a sleek wood island, the kitchen feels cozy yet minimal, despite featuring shelves of vintage pottery and glassware. It's the perfect balance of contemporary and homely, the perfect space to start your day in or enjoy an evening meal.

Sarah kept all of the original features and even some of the furniture from the previous owners to keep the scheme authentic. She said, 'The entire house is a master class in mid-century design. I wanted to learn and preserve each element. The mahogany paneling, the built-ins, the Cherokee red concrete floors – all of that stayed exactly as it was. I was especially careful with the original furniture that was integrated into the space, like the living room couch. Where I made changes, it was mostly in subtle ways – like lighting or energy systems that allowed the home to function better without compromising the architecture.'

The Zaferiou house embodies the Usonian style, a name given to many of Wright's designs for spaces that combine affordability, natural materials (typically wood), and harmony with nature. Sarah says the house is the perfect example of this, but is also unique in its one-of-a-kind floor plan. She says, 'Characterized by flat roofs, open floor plans, and integration with nature. However, this particular home includes modifications, such as an additional bedroom and a walk-out basement, reflecting a blend of Wright's principles with the owner's personal needs.'

Typically featuring large windows and set amongst stunning natural scenery, much midcentury interior design often acknowledges the external. Honoring the historic nature of the home, Sarah has scattered midcentury modern decor sparingly, bringing the space to life with authentic pieces. Take the home office for example, a handcrafted desk and matching wood desk sit beneath the large windows, blending into the architecture and allowing the scenery to take reign.

The unusually large fireplace stands out in the lounge room. Painted head to toe in white, the space feels refreshingly light and airy while still feeling sympathetic to the property's architecture. Layers of soft textures (the shaggy stool and soft rug) create an embracing effect that's so fitting for a space designed for relaxation.

Sarah says, 'I also wanted to create a mood for visitors to feel like they were stepping into a home grounded by its natural surroundings – something timeless, restored, and quietly powerful. The moment you enter, it’s not just about seeing beautiful design; it’s about feeling a shift. The filtered light, the way the wood warms the air, the sightlines that pull your eyes straight out to the trees – it all invites you to slow down and be present.'

A quiet space for reading and relaxing, the living room embraces the home's asymmetrical layout. This is made clear with the serene reading nook, where the designer has perfectly utilized the space, slotting a sofa below the large window and adding a mid-century floor lamp and woven rug to frame the area along with a modern side table.

Subtle and sophisticated, warm pops of color are scattered around the space and bring interest without dominating, instead pairing beautifully alongside the wood paneling. The cream soft furnishings and upholstery fabric contrast and provide a refreshing contrast.

The wood wall paneling is perhaps best displayed in the hallways of the property. Minimally decorated to allow the architecture to shine, the hallways speak for themselves and showcase the home's intricate design. The sleek panels and angular cabinets are built into the infrastructure, a seamless and clever storage idea that allows the space to feel pared-back but still liveable.

The epitome of the perfect midcentury bedroom idea, the space is a serene retreat that welcomes and embraces its occupant. Framed with a row of large angular windows, light floods into the room, the perfect set-up for a slow morning.

Sarah says the bedroom is her other favorite space. Acknowledging the outdoors, like with the rest of the house, the space feels aligned and peaceful. 'The bedroom is perfectly oriented with just the right amount of privacy and sight lines to connect you with the exterior landscape. Each morning I wake to the view of the tree canopies and fond memories of being in my childhood treehouse.'

Like with many midcentury modern bathroom ideas, the room allows the architecture to shine, fusing angular shapes with industrial fittings and fixtures. The retro metal sink is sympathetic to the building and contrasts with the wood paneling. The square mosaic tiles balance warmth and texture, providing the space with some variation and intricacy.

Minimally decorated, the mirror and midcentury wall light pair perfectly with the sink, a practical and sleek arrangement that contrasts with the warm tones of the paneled windows and tiles.

Sarah describes the effect the house had when she first viewed the property. 'I also remember walking up the drive for the very first time and seeing how the house just nestled into the hillside – it wasn’t trying to dominate the landscape, it was part of it. The materials, the proportions, the sense of scale – it all just belonged. I immediately thought, “This is the house for me”.'

The red concrete floor is an original feature that Sarah kept. It gives the garden presence and drama that contrasts beautifully with the luscious foliage and trees.

Sarah says the house has more than just historical significance; it's a sentimental nod to Wright's prosperous career and a reminder of all he accomplished. Explaining its interesting history, she says, 'Zaferiou had to write multiple letters to Wright before he agreed to take on the project – Wright finally relented and added it as part of his prefab collaboration with Marshall Erdman. Wright visited the site just before he passed away. So in a way, this home is part of the final chapter in his long and storied career.'

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The Zaferiou house is a one-of-a-kind treasure that represents the best of midcentury architecture. Fusing nature with architecture, Frank Lloyd Wright designed a serene retreat that acknowledges its stunning natural surroundings. Honoring his legacy, Sarah has made the home feel current yet authentic, a lesson in transitional design that's sympathetic and still refreshing.

The team specializes in this kind of house design, bringing historic homes back to life and renovating the original features to their former glory. So turning this upside-down house into a home that would be suitable for an older couple who wanted the space to work as they aged was the dream project.

Here the firm's founders, Kevin Kaminski and Alexis Pew, talk us through how they reimagined the home.

Before

'The home was originally the carriage house for a much larger estate,' explains Kevin. 'Over the years, the estate was parceled off, and the carriage house became its own property. The home was designed in the Tudor Revival style by G.W. and W.D. Hewitt and built in 1902. The home has had many lives over the years, and when the current owners purchased the property, it was a bit worn, but many of the original details remained in place.'

After

'Our clients recently relocated from Iowa to Philadelphia to be closer to their adult children (and now grandchildren!). They wanted to respect the history and details of the structure while creating a welcoming home for family and friends.'

When the team took on the project, it was a bit of an upside-down house, with a studio on the first floor and all the living spaces upstairs. 'We were brought on to renovate the entire ground floor of the home,' says Alexis.

'The space was most recently used as a dance studio, and the owner lived on just the second floor. The clients wanted to move the kitchen to the ground floor, remove a poorly placed spiral staircase in favor of a safer option, and add a bedroom and bathroom to the ground floor to allow for aging in place.'

'We were drawn to the project because of the charming character of the home, coupled with an equally charming client who took great delight in the design process. From the start, our goals were aligned, which is critical to a successful project.'

'We started this project as we start every project – by cataloguing the existing details. Fortunately, this home had a lot of beautiful original details: diamond lattice windows, heavy stonework, tin ceilings, gently rounded plaster walls, and a substantial wood wainscot. We used this detailing as a starting point to inform our design decisions moving forward. Most of the details were in good shape, so this project mainly involved undoing previous insensitive renovations.'

'While not original, we also sanded and stained the existing wood floor a rich chestnut color to bring a bit of sophistication to the space. We matched trim profiles and patched in damaged or missing sections. We rebuilt the wainscotting and matched the tin ceiling as needed. The goal was to make the new work indistinguishable from the existing.'

The main aim of the project was to bring the living space back downstairs. There wasn't really much existing on the ground floor of the house, so the team had to work out how to fit in a kitchen, living space, dining room, and a bathroom into the big open room.

'The room was completely open,' says Kevin. 'The original construction of the carriage house utilized steel to create large open spans. This suited the building’s most recent use, a dance studio, but felt a bit oversized for a couple.'

'Adding a kitchen to the ground floor was critical for the client’s goal of single-floor living and helped bring a more intimate scale to the space. We added two modest wing walls and a gentle arched opening to create a threshold between the kitchen proper and the living/ dining room. We modified the tin ceiling and wainscotting to make the transition feel as if it was always there.'

'The kitchen cabinets are Rookwood Red from Sherwin-Williams. When we originally proposed a red kitchen, the client was understandably hesitant. They envisioned something a bit more neutral. The roof of the home is clad in a red shingle, and the front door was also painted a deep red. Once we described the design logic of bringing some red into the home, they were quickly in agreement.'

'The kitchen countertop has the appearance of soapstone, but it’s a leathered granite. We started with soapstone, but pivoted to a granite material since it, comparatively, requires little to no maintenance and comes at a better price point.'

'The kitchen table was purchased at a local auction. The chairs are from Fourhands. The pendant is from Visual Comfort and the sconces are from Hudson Valley Lighting. The kitchen was custom-fabricated. The faucet is from Rohl, sink is from Kohler, and the appliances are Bosch, aside from the Wolf induction cooktop.'

Of course, old homes come with challenges. In fact, it's often the best things about old homes that are the challenges.

As Alexis explains, 'The original tin ceiling was a big one, and keeping that existing original feature was a luxury. We love the texture and scale it added to the space, but tin ceilings are terribly unforgiving.'

'When we started the project, two ceiling pendants were serving the main living space. We discreetly added multiple new surface-mounted lighting by fishing new wire between the ceiling joists above the tin. Luckily, we were able to find a fabricator that still produces similar profiles and an installer to make the new work blend seamlessly with the existing. The contractor did an excellent job, and it’s hard to tell what is new and what is original. For example, the wing walls framing the kitchen and the hood are new.'

'We also had to remove a poorly located spiral staircase and create a new circulation path to the second floor,' adds Alexis. 'The previous owner added a narrow circular staircase in the middle of the entry vestibule. It was the only way to access the second floor, and the client had to duck to walk past it when entering the home. We removed the spiral staircase, patched the tin ceiling, and constructed a more gracious stair off the entryway.'

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'Warm and welcoming,' is how the team describes the finished project. 'We aimed to design a space that acknowledges the past while feeling equally fresh and contemporary.'

And this tiny home is a perfect example. It's warm, cozy, and feels surprisingly spacious for the seriously compact footprint. While a lot of functional elements come into play, it's the organic modern style that truly brings the scheme to life.

From the warm neutral limewash walls to the layered decor and statement staircase, this tiny home is a lesson in making a small space shine. Here's how the owner nailed the remodel.

'We fell in love with the space the moment we saw it. It was totally underutilized, but we could immediately see its potential. The size was just right, as long as we opened it up a bit. It felt like the perfect canvas for something special,' says the home's owner Gem Boner.

The property was a real passion project, with a total transformation needed to create a cozy, inviting space. It was also important to keep as much of the character as possible, especially those that told the story of its interesting history.

'This little place has had quite a past – it’s been a stable, an office, even a sauna house! Now, it’s been transformed into the most peaceful, charming little retreat,' explains Gem.

Its past uses alongside the tiny square footage of the home weren't without their challenges. 'The staircase was a real challenge. We had grand ideas for a beautifully restored old one, but because we rent the space out, it had to meet all kinds of regulations,' Gem explains.

'Finding one that fit both the dimensions and our style was tricky. In the end, we went with a spiral staircase that sits right in the center of the room. It takes up a bit more space than we planned, but honestly, we love it – it really adds character to the home.'

But the size of the staircase has worked better than could have been expected. It's perfectly placed to help zone the downstairs space, breaking up the kitchen and the cozier living area without blocking the light.

Character was a running theme throughout the project, with the goal to retain the existing charm and reintroduce it where it was missing. The whole project was a careful balance of space-saving design and creating a cozy, warm, and oh-so-luxurious retreat.

'The Gate House feels magical, romantic, calm, and a bit dreamy. The big arched window is mesmerizing. Everything in there feels soft and cozy, from the bespoke headboard by Routes to the cloud-like limewash paint from Bauwerk on the walls. It’s like a hug in house form,' Gem explains.

The arched window is a beautiful design statement that truly sets the scene for the rest of the tiny home. 'It’s such a focal point. We echoed that curve in the arched shower, and people seem to really love the continuity of that detail.'

The window is the main source of natural light, and also gives the small space a sense of grandeur and age that's hard to replicate – it instantly makes the small living space feel larger than it is.

'In a small space, everything has to be intentional. We really thought about how to make every bit work hard, like adding clever hanging rails in the eaves. It’s all about smart solutions and making sure everything has its place,' she adds.

The bathroom, in particular, was a room where this ethos came into play. Gem wanted to create a sense of luxury and space while retaining character and keeping the small footprint in mind.

'We wanted to keep as much of the original character as possible, but still make it feel open and spacious. We had our hearts set on a big bath and an oversized sink, even though that goes against the usual design rules for small spaces,' she explains.

'Thankfully, we worked with Design & That to ensure everything we chose helped the space feel bigger. The Senator bath by BC Designs just squeezed in with a centimetre to spare!'

One of the most impactful design decisions was the bedroom, in particular, where and how it was introduced. 'We wanted the space to feel tall and airy, so we went for a mezzanine bed platform instead of enclosing it in a separate room,' Gem notes.

And while the practical elements, like the layout and structural build, are crucial to a successful tiny home, the decor plays just as much of a role. The warm neutral, textural choices give the interiors an organic modern look that feels cozy and inviting. It's a space that encourages you to take a deep breath and really relax.

Everywhere you look, there is something to admire, despite it being a small and pared-back design. Taking the limewash paint onto all the walls and over the ceiling draws the eye us and makes it instantly feel bigger, yet not at all cold.

There's an organic theme throughout the home, from the natural wood tones of the exposed beams, dining furniture, and kitchen countertops, to the warm terracotta tones introduced through the sofa, headboard, green shower nook, and bathroom floor tiles. Each detail has been meticulously chosen to feel curated, homey, and full of visual interest.

And it's the finishing touches that add coziness and softness to the designs. Every area feels perfectly layered, from the sheer cafe curtains on the windows, the striped sofa layered with textural cushions, to the artworks, ceramics, and display shelves in the kitchen.

It's the perfect balance of lived-in and functional. The design has taken the decluttered, fuss-free feel of minimalism and combined it with the cozy, layered aesthetic of organic modern style.

It's truly a masterclass in getting a tiny home right. It feels open and spacious without the coldness you might expect, and she's introduced the perfect amount of warm, cozy details that it truly feels like a retreat. It proves you don't need a large space to create a sense of grandeur.

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Sometimes, small really is the most impactful. This tiny home proves that with the right layout, features, and color palette, you can create a design that's warm, inviting, and spacious. There are so many tiny home storage ideas that can be taken into houses of any size – it's all about balancing aesthetics and function while curating your space to the interior design style you love.

There is something inherently uplifting about this house design, a historic former hunting lodge in Berkshire that dates back to Georgian times. At every turn, colors and patterns spark delight: a vivid coral cloakroom dances with spring flowers; a lobby is adorned with delicate clover leaves; a yellow sofa glows like a ray of sunshine in the sitting room. ‘We chose patterns and materials that truly sing in a country setting,’ notes Bunny.

The clients are, in fact, Bunny’s sister and brother-in-law, who moved here from London with their four children in 2019. ‘For the first year, they did nothing to the house so that they could drill into what the issues were, and think about how they used the rooms – where the sun comes in and where they hang out as a family, for example,’ says Bunny, who points out that the layout was already ideal. ‘Like lots of Georgian houses, the proportions were perfect for family living. It simply needed love and life and spirit breathed back into it.’

Bunny and fellow co-founder of Turner Pocock, Emma Pocock, are ‘quite militant’ when it comes to extracting a brief, and working with family proved no exception. ‘We asked them to harvest visual references to distill the aesthetic they wanted to achieve. That process is always quite revealing,’ she says. ‘What kept coming through in the images was this joyful use of color and pattern. It was brave and we found that very exciting.’

The impressive scale of the rooms proved an ally when it came to being audacious with color. ‘We could go blockier with color,’ says Bunny, pointing to the family room, where walls in a rich leaf green offset furniture in reds, pinks, blues, and softer greens.

Some pieces were repurposed from the family’s terraced home in London but, as Bunny puts it, ‘This house eats furniture, so what they had didn’t really scratch the surface.’ The couple are keen art collectors, and the designers helped them to create a gallery wall in this room. ‘Smaller pieces risked getting lost individually, so we grouped them together to create impact.’

Decorating with antiques provides an essential counterpoint to the vivid colors. ‘Without some brown furniture, many of these rooms wouldn’t have felt finished or layered enough,’ says Bunny, who guided her sister with concept visuals so she could source pieces over time.

A similar approach was taken with rugs, which include worn kilims bought at auction or pieces picked up on a trip to Morocco. ‘I was quite nervous about the idea of my sister being let loose in a souk to finish the rooms off, but I needn’t have been,’ says Bunny. One particular flatweave, which the couple chose with their children, feels as though it was made for the sitting room, its colors perfectly echoing the hues of an embroidered antique suzani used to cover the ottoman.

Upstairs, the unwaveringly confident approach to color continues: ‘If you don’t keep it consistent, rooms can feel disconnected, as if they were decorated at different times,’ says Bunny. In a children’s bathroom, acid yellow paint picks out the tones in a wallpaper humming with grasshoppers and birds, while in the main suite, earthy greens beautifully temper the soft pinks.

The most exuberant space of all is the first-floor playroom, where walls and a perfectly pitched ceiling are wrapped in bold blue and white stripes, with woodwork picked out in crimson red. ‘We love a tented ceiling – always have, always will,’ says Bunny. Beneath the built-in banquette seating, bespoke trundle beds transform the room into the ultimate sleepover space.

And, indeed, the whole point of this project is that it is not only visually uplifting but also deeply livable. ‘These houses invite you to inhabit them fully – to bring in flowers from the garden, to entertain, to gather, to enjoy the everyday,’ Bunny muses. ‘It was a bold transformation, but it was important to have the courage of our convictions. When you commit to color in this way, you have to follow through.’

So that was the task for the designers of this 2024 home – create a new build that feels like it has history. From the outside, this home is beautifully contemporary, but the rooms inside are filled with character; there are paneled walls, interesting ceilings, and stone floors. It's a lesson in how to make a home feel older while not turning it into some kind of pastiche. This still feels like a modern home, just with the depth and character of a much older property.

Here, the founders of Untold Interiors, Annabel Hickton and Samantha Liu, talk us through the home, how they injected character into the new build, and the ups and downs that challenge came with.

'The brief was to create a family home that worked for everyone – we needed to consider things like where the kids would eat breakfast in the morning and where the couple would have their coffee and quiet time. So, it needed to be practical, comfortable, and also light and airy.'

'The client also wanted the home to feel stylish and sophisticated. They love entertaining, so it was important to have a few more formal spaces to use with friends and to retreat to in the evening after the kids went to bed – rooms that felt special and tranquil.'

'The owners didn’t want their home to feel like a new build, hence a lot of time was spent on creating one-of-a-kind detailing and finishes to make it feel like it had a history. For example, for the limestone floor, we wanted it to look aged, so we chose the tumbled edge and a grout which had a more rustic feel to it. We tended to avoid anything that felt mass-produced and ‘too’ straight.'

'We worked in collaboration with architects Concept Eight and were brought on board right from the start to design the interior architecture and interiors. It’s a newly built home in the Hertfordshire countryside – there was originally a bungalow on the site, which the owners lived in for a couple of years before it was demolished when construction began.'

'For us, it’s important to be involved from day one so we can contribute to every aspect of the design and planning, and ensure the layout and each space are specifically tailored to the client’s lifestyle.'

'We considered the shape, proportion, and the purpose of each room and tried to add unique design details that added character. In the double-height entryway, we applied the fluted wall paneling and high stone skirting which is not typical at all, but it looked really beautiful, and the client trusted us that these details would make a difference – they are also very impactful when you first enter the house.'

'The arched entrance with pocket door was chosen to bring softness and a sense of coziness to the space – it felt more welcoming than a standard rectangular-shaped entrance. The decorative panels and curved black anodized steel spindles accentuate the hallway’s proportions while wall sconces from Allied Maker and the dark stained wooden handrail enhance the elegant design. A 19th-century French bleached walnut gueridon sourced from Lorfords adds character alongside two aged-brown oak console tables.'

'In the family living room you’ll see the oversized coving, a tongue and groove ceiling in the dark blue media room, and the decorative wall beading in the formal dining and lounge. We really went to town on the ceilings – it was an opportunity to make them feel less generic, and we believe every detail adds layers of interest to the house – there’s something to notice in every room, and we tried to respond to the architecture/envelope of the building.'

'We also carefully selected materials that ground the interior and give warmth. Every element feels timeless with patina and authenticity, like the tumbled edge and honed limestone floor, limewash paint that gives depth, and antique bronze metal accents.'

'The color scheme was neutral, but still full of depth and interest. We made a careful selection of natural materials such as the oak and limestone flooring and limewash walls. We also played with textures, patina, and color tones. Lots of work goes into a calm background, and there are always unexpected and unique details in every space.'

'We wanted to create a calm background with pops of colors in the furniture and art – here we worked with Art Consultancy, Hollandridge, which curated all the artwork throughout the home. The neutral palette also allows one to really take in the views of the garden and surrounding field with horses grazing – it really is the epitome of countryside living.'

'We designed the kitchen to be the heart of the home, and it forms part of the L-shape family living space that also includes the family dining and living. We intentionally chose to have flush wall cabinets because we wanted it to feel like it’s part of the room, instead of having voluminous cabinetry sitting within the space.'

'It was our intention to make the kitchen part of the living space – apart from the flush cabinets, we enclosed the big extraction fan with a curved boxing to make it less bulky and overpowering. There’s also extra kitchen storage, a second dishwasher and sink, and wine store in the pantry next to the kitchen, which can be closed off and helps keep the mess out of sight, especially when the client is hosting a party.'

'Other features are the four-meter semi-honed Taj Mahal quartzite kitchen island, in-frame solid oak cabinets with sand gray stain, and dovetailed drawers. The bar stools were bespoke.'

'We worked with 202 Design on the kitchen, which is a combination of bespoke in-frame solid oak shaker cabinets specified in a unique sand gray applied stain and a specialist hand-decorated finish. With matching solid oak, dovetailed drawer boxes and accessories throughout.'

'The work surfaces are a semi-honed ‘Taj Mahal’ quartzite and a full suite of 400 series Gaggenau appliances. Paired with aged brass hardware, sympathetic to the patinated brass tap.'

'For the family living space, we wanted it to be spacious yet cozy. We introduced the oversized seamless coving that is a continuation of the wall. It accentuates the height of the space and adds softness, echoing the arch door and all the curves we introduced at the entrance.'

'For the home bar, we wanted to create a true statement piece that serves as the focal point for entertaining friends and family. The inspiration came from the sophisticated charm of a classic hotel bar, but with a softer, more inviting feel that complements the warmth of the home.'

'The focus was on elegant craftsmanship. A curved timber arch frames the bar, while a rounded stone countertop profile adds a sense of softness. Bespoke wall detailing and decorative bobbin beadwork paneling introduce visual interest, creating a distinctive and refined backdrop.'

'Caned chairs and a Porta Romana side table with a marble top and Verdigris and gold legs complete the space, adding layers of texture and sophistication. This bar features generous open shelving for glassware, dedicated wine and beverage refrigeration, and discreet drawers for snacks and accessories, ensuring effortless entertaining in a beautifully curated space.'

'The master bedroom was a slight challenge. The ceiling height was approximately 3.2m (10.5ft), and the room in general was a difficult shape with awkward junctions and angles, and lots of services to hide. With some clever and thoughtful designs like the high skirting that stepped in response to the windows and the architecture outside, a custom-made door frame that fit perfectly with the angle of the ceiling, we managed to still create a calm and serene room, with considered detailing that makes everything look intentional.'

'And the coordination of many bespoke details from furniture to wall paneling was also sometimes tricky to navigate – we always found we were running against time. 60% of the house is bespoke. The sofas were all custom-made, and we had to coordinate halfway through production that the clients could sit on them and test them out to check the proportions were all correct – it’s so important to get it right when you’re going to the effort of making from scratch.'

'The importance of thoughtful design can be seen even in the everyday spaces. For example, in the bathrooms we didn't like to include standard niches for shower products – instead we carved out this lovely slope in the marble – it’s much easier to clean and more user-friendly.'

'The house took three years to bring to fruition, and we focused hard on integrating functional and aesthetic elements. The house feels very natural, modern, and understated, but in an elegant and timeless way. You’ll see quite a few traditional country details which have been interpreted in a contemporary way.'

But how can you design an outdoor kitchen and living space that feels like a continuation of your interiors? Designer Rebekah Zaveloff has shown how seamless it can be in this design, which proves even a backyard can be cozy and inviting.

From the neutral color palette to the statement furniture and genius zoning, this space is a masterclass in outdoor decorating – and proves your garden living area can be just as chic as those indoors.

Before the project, the area in question was nonexistent. 'The new addition for the family-meets-dining room created a courtyard effect – before that, it was just an unfinished yard that was part of Mt. Tamalpais,' explains Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director of Imparfait Design Studio.

Starting from a blank slate meant the team could really create an outdoor kitchen, dining, and living area that catered to the needs of the client, and maximized all the available space.

Every part of the design felt like a major change from the empty land that preceded it. From installing the new patio to building the statement fireplace, everything was designed from scratch, including the pergola, which bridges the gap between indoor and out, that wasn't without its challenges.

'I had never designed a pergola before, so that was both fun and challenging. I had also never designed a masonry fireplace or masonry outdoor kitchen – the whole project was entirely new territory for me, and it was awesome to see it all come together,' says Rebekah.

But despite many design firsts, you would never know from the finished space. It feels inviting and curated, it's a space you'd want to spend every spare moment in during the summer months. 'It's a serene oasis that feels like a huge outdoor room extending from the house. The seamless flow of indoor/outdoor living has been a game-changer for this family,' she explains.

'Defining the patio with graphic encaustic concrete floor tile makes the space feel like an outdoor room rather than just a patio. The outdoor kitchen was designed to seamlessly blend into the retaining wall, and the fireplace creates a cozy anchor for the lounge space. The pergola defines the dining area and provides much-needed shade on sunny days.'

The flooring choice was key to ensuring the design felt cohesive and liveable, rather than being a rough, plain floor that you'd usually expect of an outdoor space. 'I think the concrete tile floor is really the wow factor. This space would look entirely different if it had solid bluestone instead,' Rebekah adds.

It was also important that the design didn't feel too fussy or busy – the outdoor tile flooring, “Compass Point“ Geometric Cement Tile from Villa Lagoon Tile, brought in pattern, so the rest of the design could embrace simplicity and pared-back style, especially the outdoor kitchen.

'I love the simplicity of the outdoor kitchen. I'm not a fan of outdoor kitchens that are fancier than indoor kitchens. They shouldn't compete with the landscape and nature; they should blend in harmoniously,' she says.

'I wanted the kitchen to feel like it was just part of the wall rather than a focal point. It's convenient and appropriately sized, but not massive or overbearing. I chose brick instead of stucco to give it texture, then used bluestone for the countertops to match the retaining wall cap.'

To help create that more casual look that feels at home with the natural surroundings, Rebekah chose to forgo cabinet doors, instead opting for open shelving with woven storage. 'I was going for a charming, repurposed aesthetic, as if it could have been a potting table converted into an outdoor kitchen.'

The outdoor furniture choices bring interest to the whole design. The knotted design of the sofas adds texture, while the dining chairs bring in a warmer tone to contrast with the neutral colors elsewhere.

Decor forms the final layer of the design, and gives the whole outdoor space a lived-in feel that brings nature into the scheme. Potted plants on the dining table, scattered on the surrounding walls, and framing the outdoor fireplace break up the flow of color and invite the landscape in.

The space is curated yet not fussy, simple yet still filled with visual interest. It proves that any yard can be transformed into an oasis to relax, host, and simply spend time in through the warmer months.

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From the striking patio flooring to the beautiful furniture and cozy fireplace, this design proves that you can create an al fresco haven in almost any outdoor space. It proves sometimes simplicity is the best approach – and allows your garden decorating ideas to evolve as you do.

Undoubtedly an example of a studio that embodies the eclectic interior trend, Ashby Collective's latest project showcases their ability to create a collected, interesting home that's refined yet inviting.

'The architecture of the house leans modern, but our goal was to infuse the home with timeless personality – to give it a soul that truly reflects the homeowner’s sophisticated yet playful style,' explains Annie Bacon, senior designer at the studio. 'We refer to it as “Highland Park Eclectic,” a one-of-a-kind blend that reflects both the neighborhood’s luxurious charm and the homeowner’s unique and stylish point of view.'

'The client, originally from the UK, purchased this home because she saw it as a true blank canvas – something she could transform into a space that felt personal and inspired,' Annie continues. 'She had actually followed our work on Instagram for years and knew she wanted Ashby to lead the project long before she even found the house.'

'The client came to us with lots of fabulous inspiration – images filled with a thoughtful mix of old and new: vintage rugs layered beneath modern classic furniture, playful silhouettes, and rich textures. It all felt effortlessly collected and organic, yet polished, which ultimately became the guiding spirit for the home.'

The first living room is the perfect example of this, combining vintage touches like the traditional woven rug with mid-century leather furniture and luxurious marble.

Continuing the theme of contrast, the dining room blends classic furnishings with modern furniture. Ashby has opted for a large-scale Persian-style rug to give the room warmth and intricacy, contrasting perfectly with the contemporary dining chairs finished in a bold red. Straying from a traditional dining room idea, the abstract pendant light provides a modern edge that frames the space and brings a hint of luxury, matched by the 18th-century hewn oak dining table and art.

'We used rich tones and layered textures while carefully curating furnishings and décor, blending classic modern furniture with organic lines to create an effortless elegance and timeless sense of style,' explains Annie about the dining space.

Not the only living room in the house, the second lounge space is filled with vibrant pockets of color, from the yellow velvet armchairs to the wall art, Ashby has ensured the space feels elevated yet uplifting.

Note the living room rug idea brings even more warmth and contrast to pair against the yellows and pale wood. Annie says, 'Our goal was to make the home feel layered and collected, with something interesting to catch your eye at every turn.'

The artfully curated bookshelf is displayed with meaningful decor that adds to the room's accomplished design. Ashby has incorporated wood in various forms, including the abstract coffee table, which brings a modern organic edge.

It's clear the room is filled with interesting pieces that all tell a story. Referring to the client, Annie explains, 'She didn’t have many personal pieces to incorporate, so the treasure hunting was left mostly up to us. For over a year, I was constantly on the lookout, thoughtfully sourcing and curating everything from quirky artifacts to bold artwork and beautiful books that would add depth and character. The result is a home with real soul, filled with pieces from artisans around the world – a vibrant space that sparks curiosity and inspires conversation.'

The green kitchen is effortlessly chic, layered with luxurious finishes and a deep green paint (Benjamin Moore's Cabin Fever) that gives an often clinical space warmth and welcome. The quartzite counter and backsplash connect to the sophisticated grandeur that's felt throughout the house.

To ensure the space has hints of patina and warmth, the studio has incorporated wooden touches, from the midcentury modern style bar stools to the rustic chopping boards and utensils that lean into a more farmhouse style look. Balanced with the contemporary lighting designed by Holly Hunt, the space feels like the perfect amount of old and new.

The design of the guest bedroom is unique in its use of texture, yet it connects to the overall feel of the home. Annie says, 'Every room in this home has its own distinct personality, but there’s a consistent, effortless elegance that ties it all together.'

Matching the vibrancy of the living room, the bedroom's warm color scheme feels inviting and luxurious, oozing sophistication through tasteful yellows, soft oranges, and warm browns.

The layering of materials is something you notice instantly, with the velvet-upholstered bed, the drapes hanging behind it, the plush cushions, and the soft carpet all working together to bring a sense of comfort and relaxation into the space. The soft textures are balanced by the rather dramatic ebonized dresser that contrasts with the fabrics, bringing rigidity and sleekness.

When asked what her favorite room was, Annie said, 'If I had to pick, I’d say the primary suite – the bedroom and bathroom. It’s a moody sanctuary, designed to feel like a private world all its own.'

Straying from typical gray bedroom ideas, she goes on to explain, 'The bedroom is wrapped in a woven chambray colored grass cloth that brings both depth and softness to the space. I designed a custom 14-foot-wide walnut bed with integrated nightstands, each featuring a cabinet and open shelf for books and personal items. The oversized bed frame helps anchor the room, bringing balance to the high vaulted ceiling. The silk-patterned rug and pink velvet loveseat adds a touch of whimsy and romance. The room is glamorous, organic, and layered in a way that feels intimate and unique.'

Connected to the main bedroom, you'll find the one-of-a-kind bathroom that features an array of ornate textures and colors. From the pale pink limewash walls to the beautiful blue marble tiles show Ashby has been bold in their use of materials.

A material that's used consistently throughout the project, the velvet stool adds to the luxurious feel of the space, an unexpected red that contrasts against the blue, slick marble countertops, and tiles.

'The bathroom was a full reimagination,' says Annie. It started off as a lovely white, mostly marble bathroom, but it didn’t reflect the client’s style. Now, it’s rich, soulful, and feels like a quietly luxurious retreat. We centered the design around a striking fusion quartzite countertop with sweeping waves of blue and green, then added custom-stained oak cabinetry, dark plaster walls, and exposed polished nickel plumbing in the shower. The Belgian bluestone floors ground the whole space with this beautiful, tactile contrast.'

Annie said, 'She (the homeowner) was an absolute joy to collaborate with – practical when it came to durability and function, but also completely open to the creative “wildcard” ideas I’d bring to the table. I love a client who isn’t afraid of bold color, which is so clear in the monochromatic pink media room (painted in Benjamin Moore's Roman Shade). I quickly picked up on her taste as we got to know one another in the design process – if I showed her something clean and neutral next to something rich and moody, she’d go for the moody every time – always leaning to the more expressive and fun choice.'

The music room is a lesson on contemporary design that takes inspiration from the past, fusing nostalgia with luxury.

A classic piece of midcentury modern decor, the Eames lounge chair and ottoman in armory mohair bring a sense of sophistication and relaxation. The retro feel is matched by the 1970s-inspired geometric rug that's striking yet ties in with the warm shades scattered throughout the room.

The brass floor lamp and side table adorned with glass tumblers and alcohol bottles bring a more obvious sense of luxury; it's a set-up straight out of Mad Men.

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The Highland Park project, designed by Ashby Collective, is a truly eclectic work of art that fuses vintage furniture and angular shapes with soft materials and luxurious finishes. The epitome of the loud luxury trend, it's a one-of-a-kind haven that feels fun, luxurious, and comfortable all at the same time.

Its idyllic location and the fact that it is built on a copper mine intrinsically influenced the house design, with the owners leaning towards use of natural materials and crafted pieces, nods to the seascape and pops of copper tones, and this celebration of the surroundings was orchestrated by Lauren Gilberthorpe of Lauren Gilberthorpe Interiors, who was brought in to ensure this much-loved retreat worked for every generation of the family.

'Our brief was to bring together timeless Victorian pieces with a fresh, coastal style,' she explains. 'The clients trusted us to lead the design direction, which allowed us to play with texture, pattern, and scale while prioritizing a welcoming and practical flow.'

The house required some structural work, with architectural practice Donald Insall Associates designing the glazed extension that incorporates the kitchen, dining and sitting areas, and allows the family to drink in the panorama of the garden and the surroundings.

A balcony was also built above the extension to enable the owners to step out and enjoy the sea air from the main bedroom. There was further extensive internal reconfiguration with the staircase reoriented and en suites added to four of the six bedrooms.

When it came to the decor, a mix of old and new was the key requirement. 'The husband wanted to bring in some antique furniture while the wife wanted it to be quite contemporary,' notes Lauren. 'We mixed in some elements in line with his wish for it to be more in keeping with the period of the house and the wife’s desire for it to be more modern.'

The alluring muted color palette is rooted in nature’s hues with warm sandy tones, earthy shades, mossy greens and sea blues. 'It’s colorful without being maximalist,' explains Lauren.

Although the interior style is undoubtedly modern country, there are subtle coastal nods. 'The clients wanted to feel like the decor fitted in with the coastal region without incorporating seagulls on sticks. We pulled in some references to the coast, as well as the history of the house with copper-toned paneling.'

The thoughtful design exudes a cohesive feel. 'We tried to make each room feel slightly different while still maintaining a flow – we used touches of the same materials throughout so that it doesn’t seem like a myriad of styles,' says Lauren. Color has been used to underline that thread of cohesiveness. The stair runner has an aquamarine shade that is echoed in the walls in the cloakroom, in one of the first-floor bathrooms and in the curtain fabric in the top-floor bedroom. 'I wanted it to feel like a journey of color as you went through the house with touches of it throughout.'

Authenticity is at the heart of the project, with a wealth of natural materials, including wood, showcased in the furniture – Lauren describes the dining table as 'a huge chunk of oak.' The emphasis was on incorporating as many crafted pieces as possible. The majority of the furniture, from the sofas made in Cheltenham to the four-poster bed crafted by a skilled local joiner, speak to the family’s connection to craftsmanship.

The interior celebrates texture, with carefully curated layers. 'When the tide goes out along the estuary, you get beautiful ripples in the sand and we reflected that with texture on fabrics and accessories,' explains Lauren. 'The sandy-colored fabric that makes up the sitting room curtains has a slight ripple to it, while the Porta Romana table lamps also resemble the patterns in the sand.'

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Lauren has created a family home that perfectly suits the owners, their children, and grandchildren. 'It’s a space that embodies warmth and vibrancy, inviting everyone to gather, rela,x and create new memories.'

If you're excited about buying your first home, there's a lot to figure out for your potential upcoming purchase: the new furniture, the landscaping, and the custom-made drapes you've had your eye on.

However, before diving into these details, you need a clear budget and sense of what you can reasonably afford. Otherwise, that dream home can become an ongoing source of headaches and financial stress. Here's how to design a smart budget for upcoming housing costs.

Remember, monthly costs are more than the mortgage

When determining how much house you can afford, a common rule of thumb is to spend no more than 28% of your pre-tax gross income. A couple earning $150,000 pre-tax could spend $3,500 on monthly housing costs.

While the mortgage payment will be most of that, you'll have other ongoing expenses as a homeowner:

• Property taxes range from 0.32% to over 2%, depending on the state. A $500,000 property with a 1% property tax rate would cost $5,000 yearly.
• Homeowners insurance. The typical homeowner paid between $90 and a little under $300 a month for homeowners insurance issued after January 1, 2024, according to data from Progressive.
• Utilities could be expensive if you buy a bigger property.
• Possible homeowners' association (HOA) fees. These cost a few hundred dollars a month on average, depending on the neighborhood.

Consider all these ongoing costs as you set your monthly housing budget and determine what you can safely afford.

Plan upfront expenses besides the down payment

In the TD Bank survey, 47% of potential first-time homebuyers reported saving up for a down payment as a necessary, critical step. First-time homebuyer programs, such as FHA loans, allow first-time buyers to potentially buy a home with a down payment of just 3.5% of the property value.

However, paying more upfront will help you get out of debt more quickly. You also don't have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) if your down payment is 20% or more of the property value. PMI fees typically range from 0.5% to 1.5% of your original mortgage until you've paid off 20% of the loan. A $500,000 mortgage would cost $2,500 to $7,500 yearly for PMI until it can be removed.

As you save up for the down payment, remember that you'll have other upfront costs to save up for too, including:

• The initial home inspection. These cost about $400 on average, according to Zillow.
• Closing costs to set up your mortgage loan. This includes services such as the appraisal of the property value, the loan origination fee, and legal fees. They typically run between 2% and 6% of the amount you want to borrow and can be added to your loan.
• Moving can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars, according to Zillow. Factor in that you may also need to take time off work.

Spend within your means for furniture

When you move into a home that you own, you might feel like your old furniture from your rental days needs an upgrade. That couch you've had since college will no longer cut it.

But as excited as you might be to furnish your dream property, once again, play it smart with your budget. Buy furniture you can safely afford within your monthly income and savings. Avoid going on a credit card spending spree for furnishing, or you could be charged sky-high interest rates until it's all paid off.

Remember, you'll likely live in your home for years. If you can't afford top-tier furniture right away, use a more affordable starter set or search online for secondhand furniture deals. Gradually upgrade room by room from there.

Prepare for future repairs

As a homeowner, you can't call a landlord to handle repairs. It's up to you to fix everything. A common rule of thumb is to put aside at least 1% a year of your home value for maintenance and repairs.

Since you never know when something major will come up, you should keep three to six months' living expenses in savings in an emergency fund. That way, if a pipe bursts or the roof springs a leak, you can cover the cost without taking on debt.

Keep a long-term focus for renovations

Your first property might need some work before it feels like the home of your dreams. But follow a smart budget for any renovations and upgrades. Aim to cover costs with your monthly income and savings versus using high-interest debt.

That might mean spreading out the renovations over time. Think about what work must be done immediately and what can be held off. For example, replacing a shaky water heater might be urgent in your first year, but remodeling the unfinished basement could likely wait.

Creating the perfect home is a marathon, not a sprint. You'll get there with patience and the right budget.

Help is here for you

There's a lot to figure out and budget for first-time homebuyers. No wonder 55% said they feel overwhelmed by the process. But you aren't alone. TD Bank's experts can help you set your plan.

TD Bank branches offer in-person workshops and seminars for people interested in buying their first home. You can contact your nearest branch to see when these programs will be available. You could also schedule a meeting with a TD mortgage professional to discuss financing, including the specific programs for first-time homebuyers.

In addition, TD Bank offers free online resources such as mortgage calculators, worksheets, and learning modules to teach you what to expect.

After you design the right budget, you can focus on designing the fun parts of homeownership, like the ideal color scheme for your walls and the perfect plants for your new garden.

Ali Mahon is both the owner and designer of this beautiful old Federal-style farmhouse, built in 1804. She's also an antique dealer, and the barns on the property are now where she stores and sells her amazing finds. Here, Ali tells us the story of this house design right from the beginning, how she fully restored it when she moved back in 2020, adding in her unique style, which she describes as 'traditional with a twist.'

The Main House

'I grew up next door to the property. The owners were close family friends, and one of my earliest memories is meeting Mrs. Hatch at the stone wall so she could hand me raspberries from her garden for me to bring home. The property is a couple of acres, which in this part of Greenwich, Connecticut, is unusual, and it seemed vast to me as a child.'

'Then in the 1990s, my parents bought the home from the Hatch family after learning a developer intended to tear down the home and three barns and subdivide the property into seven building lots. My parents did not know what they were going to do with the property, but they did know they wanted to save it.'

'I was newly married at the time, and my mother and I began renovating. Although I had many ideas that my mother did not want to implement, I was grateful to be part of the process. By the time we were finished, we had my first son and a baby on the way, so we bought the home from my parents and moved in.'

'My four children were raised there until life took us to Florida for eight years, at which point my parents moved back in. I moved back from Florida after both my parents and my husband passed away and although I questioned whether playing Musical Houses again would be going backwards, I decided that I didn’t want to see the Riverside landmark torn down now any more than my parents did then.'

'When I made the decision to restore and renovate again in 2020, the home had been let go because of my parents’ failing health. And although charming, it lacked flow and the modern conveniences we expect out of homes today.'

'I loved the low ceilings, seven fireplaces, crooked staircase, and wide board pine floors, but the bathrooms were limited, the kitchen was tiny, and the staircase down to the garage was a death trap. There was an addition done in 1960 that housed a garage, with a family room above, and two bedrooms above that.'

'Since there was no historical significance, I wanted to move all of that to the other side of the house instead of crammed in the corner of the property. That was one example of an idea my mother vetoed way back when. I also always envisioned connecting the largest of the three barns to the main house to create a great room.'

'When I first met with my architect Rob Sanders Architects at the house, he said among other things, that we could remove the 1960 addition, move the garage over to the other side of the property to better center the home on the site, we could double in size of the kitchen, add two bedrooms above to replace the ones we would lose, and attach the big barn to the back creating a great room. Music to my ears. I instantly hired him.'

'We kept the exposed beams in the kitchen, but the ceiling originally was seven feet high, so when we doubled the footprint, we raised it to nine feet. The kitchen used to be very dark, so I hesitated straying from white, but I did not want boring.'

'Adding walnut accents to the drawers and range hood was one way. Painting the pantry green was another. Using Danby Marble from Vermont for the countertops and backsplash was a long-time dream. And repurposing the island and bar counters with chestnut wood found in the attic and barn lofts adds interest and history.'

'We really tried to reuse everything from the old home and barns, down to the door knobs. If we found something in the walls, and we did (empty liquor bottles, game pieces, and an enormous lobster claw), we tucked them back into the post and beams when we were done so they can be seen and conversation pieces. I love how quirky and perfectly imperfect the home has always been. I didn’t want to lose that.'

'Since I’ve been an antiques dealer since 2006, I had more than a few pieces I knew I wanted to incorporate in this project. Some were from my parents’ collection of early American painted furniture and folk art, and some were from my own collections, travels, and inventory. I was eager to create a mix of old and new, time periods, surfaces, patterns, and textures.'

'I also love mixing patterns, and although it’s not always easy, it does create a cozy, interesting, and memorable room when it works. I normally start with one must-have, in this case, the dining room’s Galbraith & Paul’s Sumi wallpaper in Curry and work from there.'

'I chose papers that worked with that one. A bold stripe can work with a small floral pattern. A plaid can work with a check. It’s like a puzzle. It may take a lot of tries to make fit, but once you have the right piece, you know.'

'I adore decorating with color and in this project, I loved the idea of using historically Colonial colors, like mustard yellow, wedgewood blue, and barn red, in a way to make them feel modern.'

The Barns

'The three barns were built in the early 19th century to house the Chestnut Tree Farm’s tools and machinery, horses and carriages, and a summer kitchen, respectively. When my husband and I lived here in the early 2000s, we used the small barn as a playhouse for our four children, and I made the medium barn my shop. The big barn, as we referred to it, is now attached to the main house and serves as the great room.'

'I must subconsciously design The Barns like a home, but it does help clients visualize how to decorate with antiques. They see how I mix old with new, high with low, color with neutral.'

'Often, I’ll display things in an unconventional way, such as hanging baskets, carnival shooting gallery targets, weathervanes, and quilts on a wall instead of a tabletop. I have always bought what I love, and that common thread has allowed my pieces to relate and work together. I edit by having quality and the best example of something rather than quantity.'

'For as much as I love the main house, it is so much more than that. The Barns have become an extension of my home. I get to live with the antique and vintage pieces I love and share them with others who are passionate about them too. In this day and age of reusing and repurposing, this is my way to do that with home decor, the historic barns, and a town landmark that now I get to share with others.'

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This Utah home, built in 2024, gets that exactly right. It features colonial-inspired architecture, with a nod to a nostalgic New England style, and includes the kind of layered, storied detailing that truly makes a house – even a newly constructed house – a home.

Interior designer Alex Adamson was part of the build team right from the planning stage. Take the tour to find out how she added character to this family home.

The spacious living room has all the marks of a traditional classic, a comfortable, familiar space that puts you right at ease from the off. This hasn't happened by chance, as designer Alex Adamson explains: 'Our biggest challenge was infusing warmth and character into a new build, which can sometimes feel sterile. We took inspiration from my client's childhood home and neighborhood in Maryland and incorporated nostalgic elements through thoughtfully crafted millwork, timeless wallpaper, and historic details – most notably, the antique fireplace mantels that add a sense of history and charm. We also made sure to incorporate a good mix of vintage furniture throughout the home.'

Alex suggested adding the golden grasscloth wallcovering towards the end of the build and says it’s now one of her favorite features, along with the custom rug created with the manufacturer.

This family of eight loves to host, so including an extra-long dining table in the dining room was a must. 'While we wanted a vintage piece, the scale required a custom design,' says Alex. 'To achieve that timeless feel, we replicated antique details to give the charm of vintage while ensuring the table fits perfectly into the space.'

Getting the spatial planning just right was key in this forever home, as the owners asked Alex to create spacious rooms to accommodate not only their growing family but also future visits from their children and grandchildren. 'The entertaining spaces were designed with flexibility in mind, perfect for hosting large holiday gatherings,' adds Alex.

Of course, the backbone of any entertaining home is its kitchen. Here, a large stainless steel and brass Lacanche range and double islands provide ample prep, cooking, and seating space.

'My client also wished to incorporate elements reminiscent of her East Coast upbringing. To honor that, we wove in nostalgic details through thoughtful millwork and carefully selected antique accents, creating a space rich with warmth and history.'

Key pieces here to create that link with the past include the pan rail, complete with gleaming copper pots, the glazed white cabinetry, and the classic white tiled backsplash.

Beautiful Ann Morris pendants light the practical prep and cooking area of the kitchen, with its marble-topped island. However, the emphasis here, as elsewhere in the house, is on the kitchen as a social, family space.

'Our clients requested one island to be dedicated entirely to seating, serving more as a table than traditional cabinetry since this is a favorite daily spot for the family to gather,' says Alex. 'We lined the island with comfortable and easy to clean leather stools from Hickory Chair.'

The look is reminiscent of a classic farmhouse or large estate's work table, something we're seeing more and more these days as an alternative to a fixed island. And in a generously proportioned kitchen like this, it works just as well alongside a more conventional island set-up.

Adjoining the kitchen is a colorful pantry. A splash of old-world blue that perfectly complements the owner's blue and white plate collection. And while a dedicated pantry for modern living is all the rage, this useful space finds its origins in the homes of our ancestors of a couple of centuries ago. Designer Alex is delighted by its addition to the floor plan.

'I absolutely love the pantry! While our client always envisioned a classic white kitchen, they were excited about my suggestion of a bold, colorful adjoining pantry,' says Alex. 'We brought that vision to life with rich blue cabinetry and matching trim, creating a vibrant contrast. To add both warmth and functionality, we opted for walnut counters instead of marble, making the space feel more casual – great for chopping veggies and embracing everyday use while still being just as beautiful as it is practical.'

Rather than putting together a typical home office, Alex decided to create a far more cozy, welcoming, and nostalgic place to work. A room like this adds so much character to the new build.

'This is one of my favorite spaces in the home,' says Alex, delighted with the results. 'From the very beginning of the architectural planning phase, I knew a fully stained wood-paneled office was a must. We wanted it to feel more like a library and music room rather than a traditional office, so instead of a standard desk, we chose a round table and comfortable seating to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.'

'I always ask how a client wants to feel when walking into their new home, and 'cozy' was the word that kept coming up,' adds the designer. 'They wanted historically accurate details, but with a balance – nothing too fussy or precious. They live casually and wanted the space to feel warm, welcoming, and lived-in.'

The kids have their own cozy space to enjoy in this playroom which is designed as a kids' library and chess area. 'With a large wall but limited depth, we created a cozy niche for a sofa nestled between the bookshelves. I love how the seating feels tucked in, surrounded by all the books,' says Alex.

Meanwhile, for these parents of six kids, the primary bedroom needed to be a true sanctuary, a place to unwind from the everyday hustle and bustle of family life. Alex's scheme of warm buttery cream and soft neutrals is the perfect choice, with an unusual crossed four-poster bedframe underlining the fact that this is an important room.

'The foundation of this primary bedroom is anchored by a stunning large antique rug and one of our favorite antique fireplace mantels. We kept the furniture comfortable and timeless, layering in softness with the floral-printed relaxed Roman shades and linen drapes,' says Alex.

One sure way to keep a clutter-free bedroom, is to factor in an adjoining dressing room, and this is one beautifully arranged closet. Besides keeping clothes in good order, a well-appointed dressing room surely helps to make every day get off to a good start.

'We wanted this space to feel light and airy, so we used sheer drapes on the windows and behind the glass cabinetry,' says Alex. 'I love the vanity mirror hanging over the window. A favorite furniture piece is the custom scalloped ottoman we covered in Soane Fabric.'

Looking for a pretty but sophisticated look for one of the girls' bedrooms, designer Alex chose a tone-on-tone approach here, incorporating a variety of patterns to create depth and interest.

'The Robert Kime floral wallpapered ceiling, paired with the Les Indiennes hand-blocked duvet complement each other beautifully. A soft, muted green rug ties it all together, adding warmth and texture to the space,' says Alex.

Looking back over the finished project, she adds: 'I love this home so much. We achieved our goal of making this new build feel timeless and our clients' reactions were priceless, especially the little ones talking about the excitement of their new rooms. It was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I gained so much insight into playing with scale, balancing old and new, and discovering amazing new vendors and craftsmen along the way.'

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Acknowledging the Colonial style of the house, interior designers Keren and Thomas Richter of White Arrow gave the home a characterful revamp that honors its age, creating a modern farmhouse style scheme mixed with more traditional touches.

On a mission to create a timeless home that never dates, Keren explains, 'We transformed a timeless residence into a well-appointed and sophisticated forever home for our “empty nester" clients. Our goal was to refine the home’s existing architectural details and finishes, rooted in old-world millwork and timeless craftsmanship, design chic updated bathrooms, and rethink the home’s layout and functionality.'

Expected in a Colonial-style home, the property is filled with traditional architectural features. Wood paneling has been used throughout, in harmony with the building's exterior, giving each the space a cozy, lived-in feel.

Greeting you as soon as you walk in the door, the entryway entices and welcomes. The blue and white color scheme is so fitting for the traditional style of the home and ties in with the nostalgic feel that's apparent throughout.

Mirroring the exterior, the designers have used cream shiplap to create a handy built-in bench for guests to use when departing and arriving. Like all good entryways, storage is ample, fitted with two cupboards to keep coats and shoes out of sight. Matching the whimsical floral wallpaper, the designers have scattered pops of vintage pattern from the gingham cushion to the framed floral botanical print.

Undoubtedly a farmhouse kitchen, this space feels contemporary and sophisticated. Ensuring to make the space as light as possible, it has been decorated in creams and white, balanced with rustic touches like the wood bar stools, rustic ceramics, and pleated pendant lights.

There are plenty of luxurious finishes, from the marble kitchen island to the subway-tiled backsplash that together give the space a sense of heritage and timeless patina. It's an elevated space that honors the traditional architectural style while still feeling fresh and current.

White kitchens can feel clinical, White Arrow has ensured the space is as authentic and integrated as possible, fitting cream cabinets that seamlessly blend with the original wood paneling.

The ceramic sink is an authentic addition that ties in with the classic wood cabinetry and brass hardware, mirroring a traditional kitchen without the fusty, outdated feel. It's a seemingly simple yet elegant space that invites its occupants to cook, relax, and enjoy their surroundings first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

Ensuring the whole home feels cohesive and aligned, the breakfast nook has been fitted with millwork and built-in cabinetry that connects to the exterior's wood paneling. The space has been sparingly furnished, but these architectural details give the room interest and character.

The dark wood floor balances the cream walls and cabinetry, matched with the antique-style round dining table and charming rattan dining chairs. Framing the arrangement is a low purple pendant light that brings the perfect amount of color and charm.

Providing an alternative to the more relaxed feel of the breakfast nook, the designers have created a more traditional dining room that honors the property's Colonial style. A large, impressive space with a high ceiling and plenty of tall windows, the architecture is accentuated by classic heritage wallpaper, timeless blue drapes, and an antique dining table and upholstered dining chairs.

The blue and white color scheme is used throughout the project, drawing upon the traditional, Americana aesthetic. It's an understated choice that evokes a sense of grandeur and sophistication, without going overboard.

The dining room has been decorated with subtle yet impactful gold accents, from the curtain rails to the pendant light, bringing a sense of luxury without edging towards the overly ornate.

'When designing our client’s home in Bedford, New York, our goal was to bring the outside in,' says Keren. 'The house is surrounded by beautiful nature on all sides, and we loved incorporating botanical references throughout the home.' Decorating with pattern, the designers have incorporated a variety of nature-inspired wallpapers and soft furnishings, giving every room a refreshing feel. The dining room is an example of this, and the cozy living room has a similar heritage feel with its Toile de Jouy wallpaper.

The living room has been decorated in darker shades, and the result is a welcoming, snug space that leans into the more traditional feel of the home. For some contrast, they've incorporated an unexpected red with the painted dresser and pleated pendant light, traditional colors that radiate richness and sophistication.

'We achieved a richly layered and comfortable interior by incorporating architectural salvage and custom millwork alongside a mix of British and Scandinavian patterning and textiles, bespoke upholstery and rugs, and a collected mix of vintage and antique artwork and furniture, alongside collected contemporary pieces,' explains Keren.

The rich navy blue armchair and the painted bookshelves provide a sense of luxury that's matched with wallpaper and antique furniture. It's the perfect reading corner that entices you to sit and relax in the evening, cocooning you with warmth and richness.

The shelves have been balanced with rustic vases and ornaments and a selection of vintage books, transforming a plain shelving unit into an artful arrangement that feels balanced rather than cluttered. The subtle pops of white contrast with the dark blue shades, honoring the classic color pairing that's used throughout the home.

A refreshing, serene escape, the bedroom has been designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. From the muted yellow grasscloth walls to the subtle pops of blue, the scheme feels colorful yet still subdued. The four-posted bed ties in with the traditional nature of the property without taking this theme too literally, instead nodding to its heritage in an understated way.

Reminiscent of a coastal bedroom, the pale blue and white bedding is a classic pairing that pairs beautifully with the dark wood accents, creating a refreshingly elegant arrangement that beckons you over.

One of the most luxurious rooms in the house, the marble bathroom fuses timeless sophistication and contemporary finishes. The wood and marble vanity unit paired with the marble shower is an unbeatable combination that frames the space and makes an everyday room feel extraordinary.

It's Keren's favorite space in the project. 'I love the primary bathroom – we thoroughly redesigned it and created a new, light-filled, spacious interior. The room features custom millwork, a luxurious walk-in shower clad in marble, a statement soaking tub, and even a lovely, quiet, art-filled moment when you first walk into the room.'

The built-in architectural details are a consistent theme throughout the home and are perhaps best displayed in the dressing room. Keren explains, 'We wanted the interiors to feel rooted in the past but with a modern perspective – we designed custom millwork throughout the home (library, dressing room, home office, primary bathroom) that seamlessly connects with the home’s original finishes.'

'We updated room layouts and functionality by designing a luxurious new primary bath and dressing room, creating a new pantry, laundry, and a home office with an ensuite lounge.'

There are endless heritage patterns scattered throughout the home, from the Toile De Jouy wallpaper in the living room to the gingham and pinstripe upholstery fabrics on the seating. The guest bathroom is no different; decorated with a whimsical clover-printed wallpaper, providing the perfect amount of intricacy and playfulness.

To keep the scheme balanced, the designers have incorporated cream wood paneling and vintage accents from the pedestal sink to the round mirror and the brass door handle.

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Keren and Thomas have undoubtedly honored the long-standing history of this Bedford home, incorporating plenty of beautiful and ornate architectural features and finer details. The project is a lesson in refreshing a period space without stripping it of its character.

This was what the homeowners of this 1905 property were dealing with when they moved from the suburbs to South Orange's Academy Heights, New Jersey. But they wanted that character back. So they brought on designer Sarah Storms to transform the first floor of the house. Her task was to add character to the home, restore some of the historic roots, while also designing spaces that worked for a young family and modern life.

'The family was currently living in town, but in a more residential neighborhood. They were yearning for their past urban residences, like their previous downtown Seattle loft. They missed being in the “city” and being able to walk to the grocery store or to grab a morning coffee, but didn’t want to leave South Orange,' explains Sarah Storms.

'They found this house, which is the only residential house within a few blocks. The location was just what they were looking for, and the size was perfect for their family. The downside was that it was a flip that didn’t take into consideration the flow of the space or how people would be living there. And, sadly, stripped away almost all the original millwork from this 1920’s home. The only original millwork is on the wall with the stairs. But they weren’t new to renovations and knew the house was the framework for their new home.'

So Sarah's brief was to reimagine the whole of the first floor – including the kitchen, dining space, living room, and powder room – and turn it into a family home that brought together the two homeowners' styles, one being a colorful maximalist and one a lover of industrial style. The couple also wanted a touch of the loft-like vibe they had in their previous apartments, and of course, some nods to the original features of the home.

'This family of three loves to entertain, and the husband LOVES to cook and bake. His passion and skill have become an essential part of the family’s daily life. For the husband, having a well-designed, high-end kitchen was of utmost importance. And from an aesthetic point of view, his tastes are a bit more industrial.'

'We wanted a large prep space and created a massive custom kitchen island, which we heightened to 39” because of his stature, and had a custom black walnut end-of-end butcher block work station attached so he could chop and go. Leaning into the love of industrial style, we selected a brick veneer kitchen backsplash that was taken to the ceiling to make you think we discovered a brick wall in the demo and kept it much like industrial city loft spaces.'

The kitchen is where you can so clearly see all the mix of styles coming together. The deep blue kitchen cabinets honor the love of color, whereas the accessories and the lighting lean more industrial. The faux brick walls add that character back into the space, as Sarah says, it's like they were part of the original building.

She continues, 'We wanted an industrial vibe in the kitchen, but for it to be balanced within this colonial house. The warmth of the brick backsplash balances beautifully with the blue. The blue has a slight green undertone, which makes the color come alive next to the brick. I love this kitchen and I’m so happy with how we used the space and incorporated some obstacles like the post to create a dreamy space.'

While it's lovely to have large windows in a kitchen, it does mean you often have to forgo wall cabinets, and if storage is key, then this can pose an issue. But Sarah broke all the design rules here and built shelving in front of the window – and it paid off.

'I’m also obsessed with the bistro shelving in front of the window in this space,' she says. 'We wanted a place for plants and glassware. Kitchen storage was still tricky, and we loved having a central window. Layering these stunning shelves allowed us to have storage and light!'

'There is nothing more magical than having plants in your window. This space is used as a living art nook and a place to store glassware. Currently, the homeowners are growing herbs for their summer meals.'

As part of the open plan living/dining/kitchen space, Sarah added a home bar. She calls this small area the 'muse' for the color scheme of the entire home. She specifically praises the tiles for giving her the perfect color palette to run throughout all the rooms.

'Color and scale are your friend when it comes to pattern matching,' she explains. 'And the “hero” of the space is the glass backsplash from Artistic Tile in the wet bar. It’s the full color palette from which everything is drawn. It's actually my favorite feature, it's the heart of the design, the muse who created this project.'

'When you have a bold color, it is important to ground it,' continues Sarah. 'We did this with the white in the entryway, and the blue in the living room and dining room. While there are bold colors and patterns, they are perfectly balanced. The other important aspect of managing bold colors is to repeat them at least three times. These repeats can be small, but what this does is it allows your eye and brain to make sense of the scheme and not have something feel too jarring.'

'For example, you'll notice a thread between the backsplash tile in the wet bar, the wallpaper in the living room, and the wallpaper in the mudroom. These were balanced with the sleek Danish dining table and chairs, and brick backsplash, because incorporating natural materials is also important for balance. We also refinished the floors, but still wanted a richness in the medium tone for a balance. Again – the importance of grounding the bold color choices.'

The living room is where the most color and pattern come together, this space feels fun and creative yet still sophisticated. The statement coffee table is the real focal point, clashing gloriously against the geometric pattern of the carpet and wallpaper. And yet despite all the competing prints, it feels very easy on the eye, as Sarah has mentioned, it's a very balanced space.

On the opposite side of the room stands a baby grand piano, an inherited piece that was essential to build it into the home's redesign.

'Incorporating the grand piano was tricky,' admits Sarah. 'Their daughter plays, so we needed to keep it. But I also wanted it to be featured without having it interfere with the space planning of the living room. We created a nook for the piano with the large-scale art and sconces. The seat was recovered in Rebecca Atwood woven fabric.'

'All the art pieces were sourced specifically for this project,' she adds. 'Personally, I love decorating with art, the larger the better. It’s unexpected and adds a gallery-like experience to your home. There was limited wall space with this project, so we wanted to make the most of it.'

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Downsizing from the suburbs to a city home that's been through a builder-grade remodel might have been a challenge, but both the homeowners and Sarah had a vision that this property could be brought back to its former glory. And this project wasn't all about adding original features back in, it was about using color and pattern to create something new and unique that both nodded to the past and felt very current.

Their new home in a leafy Philadelphia suburb was all open plan, all on one level, and all one color – white. It made the perfect blank canvas for a bold, colorful transformation. And with help from interior designer Melissa Urdang Bodie of Melissa & Miller, a kaleidoscope of colorful rooms has put the joie de vivre right back into this tired French Colonial home. Take the tour to see how.

The kitchen introduced the new color palette. 'A soft, light sage green that was both all encompassing and very calming,' says Melissa. 'We transformed this space with new cabinet fronts, bespoke hardware from Hoffman Hardware, new window treatment from East London Cloth, Farrow & Ball's Eddy paint, de Gournay wallpaper, and Thomas Hayes counter stools. We also ripped out the old counter/backsplash details and used a porcelain that is very soft.'

In the kitchen, as elsewhere in the house, the wood floors, that had been painted white, have now been stripped and stained with a natural finish.

In the breakfast room, the hero pieces are the solid oak stave dining table and the de Gournay wallpaper, which helps to link with the working side of the kitchen.

'With its statement lighting, and textiles from de Gournay and Pierre Frey, the home strikes a balance between refined elegance and relaxed livability,' says Melissa. And nowhere is that more apparent than in the kitchen-diner.

'The client often entertains, so she wanted a buffet-style millwork piece in the breakfast room to lay out all of the food,' explains Melissa. The solution? A clever custom built-in, complete with counter and storage.

The chairs are from Palecek with a Brooke Perigon fabric on the seat.

The living room is the only room with white walls, yet the furniture brings plenty of color, radiating out into the vibrant schemes elsewhere in the house.

The Cuff Studio rope globe lights were Melissa's starting point. 'We took ages to balance and set them so that they look great from every perspective throughout the home, 360 degrees,' she says. 'Another key component was the wrap-around bookshelves that we custom-designed with East Otis in oak and metal. And the rug is by Erik Lindstrom.'

The sofa is custom Maiden Home, the wall lights are from Apparatus, the chairs are Lawson Fenning and Holly Hunt.

This smaller living room is known as 'the den'. Its deep teal color scheme (Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue) wraps the ceiling and walls to create a cozy, atmospheric space.

'Comfortable seating was a must,' says Melissa. 'The husband reads and reads, so chairs that were suitable for feet up, head back were essential – but they had to be good looking.'

The pendant is by Lawson Fenning, sofa custom by Maiden Home, and a Kelly Wearstler fabric on the custom ottoman. The drapes are in a Colefax and Fowler fabric.

With an open-plan space, it's important that the various zones relate to each other in a meaningful way. That wasn't originally the case here, as Melissa explains: 'We altered the flow between the living room and the smaller sitting room, as it was awkward with poor flow. The clients like to entertain and wanted a dedicated home bar, so we decided to turn this once awkward space into a cigar bar, adding pocket doors to enhance flow.

Taking the cigar artwork as her starting point, Melissa chose Farrow & Ball's Brinjal to give the space a sophisticated warmth.

'The addition of pocket doors changed everything: the ability to flank the doors with credenzas and create a “pathway” from the front entrance to the back of the house,' adds Melissa. That sense of a pathway gives the spaces back their natural flow, while the individual room's strong color scheme underlines its individuality.

At this end of the room, the luxurious marble countertop and backsplash, bar stools by Thomas Hayes, and hardware by Hoffman Hardware all play their part in making the home bar a real talking point.

The classic pale blue scheme in the main bedroom creates instant calm and relaxation, with minimal clean-lined furniture further adding to the chilled mood.

However, the primary bedroom was something of a challenge when Melissa first saw it in its original state. 'The room was enormous and full of furniture that looked like a furniture showroom,' she recalls. 'So we reconfigured the bedroom to create one separate bedroom and one separate sitting/dressing room, while moving the direction of the bed.'

Key accessories include the Urban Electric flushmount and wall sconces, Lawson Fenning nightstands, Pierre Frey bed fabric, and a Philip Jeffries grasscloth wall covering

Adjoining the main bedroom is a peaceful bedroom corner, used as an extra sitting room. It's one of designer Melissa's favorite spaces in the house, and perfectly fulfils the owner's brief for plenty of comfortable reading nooks, while also being key to dividing up the previously cavernous bedroom.

The room is decorated with a floral Fromental wallpaper, Colefax and Fowler window treatments, Urban Electric hanging light and wall lights, Brunschwig & Fils chair fabric, and a Croft House dresser.

Our tour finishes on a vibrant note, with a bathroom clad in racing green tiles from Zia. The sconces are from Urban Electric and the reeded vanity from Perlato.

'What we love about this project is that each room has its own personality and character, yet they all work seamlessly together,' says Melissa. 'Designed for entertaining while remaining effortlessly comfortable for their grandchildren and two dogs, this home blends bold style with warmth and functionality.'

What a contrast to the one-color, one-level, open-plan home the designer first saw when she started this project. It's now a world of color, and it's made a whole world of difference.

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Interior design: Melissa & Miller Interiors
Photography: Brian Wetzel

The clients, who are a couple with teenage children, had bought a waterside plot on the edge of the New Hampshire lake and commissioned Charles R. Myer & Partners to create a weekend retreat, only a two-hour drive from their Boston home.

‘I came on board as the interior designer having been recommended by the landscape architect. The floor plan was almost set but there was still some time for tinkering,’ Nina says.

'The house design has a shingle-style exterior and is situated between mountain ranges. Here, the properties are spaced out, and there’s a feeling of serenity with very little boat traffic on the lake. There’s been a long association with Harvard as the engineering students would come here to camp and test out their ideas. There are plenty of academic families in the area,’ she says.

The house has been strictly governed by building regulations, ensuring the beauty of the lake is unspoilt. ‘There are rules governing height, so this property has a long and low footprint, making it blend into the landscape. Apart from the bunk room at the top, it’s only one storey,’ Nina says.

For her starting design cue, Nina curated a series of rugs, most of which were made bespoke. ‘I always begin with rugs, and we decided a lot on our first meeting, which meant I immediately had a palette I could build around,’ she says.

The living room, bookended by two colossal stone fireplaces, features a course of windows overlooking the lake. Here, the clients wanted a long, upholstered seat, ideal for curling up with a book.

‘My client’s objective was to create a relaxed, technology-free, living-off-the-land kind of existence. They love games, puzzles, and records. There’s only one screen in the house which is in the small den,’ Nina says.

‘Upstairs, the bunk room has been intended for all ages. You can push the beds together and an entire family can sleep up there. There’s also a separate barn with a guest house on top. The whole feel is evocative of summer camp, and the porch swing was based on the female client’s childhood home,’ she adds.

‘We knew that there was going to be a lot of pine so we looked for saturated colors to place around it. We wanted to play up tones of indigo, reds, and ochres which would add depth. I didn’t want the schemes to be too light or fluffy. Being surrounded by color and pattern helps to create a cozier atmosphere,’ Nina notes.

The large sitting room with its vaulted pine ceiling leads out onto the screened porch which serves the family all year round. ‘They brought very little with them so everything had to be chosen from scratch. I used a few of my English sources, such as Drummonds and Jamb, but also drew heavily from the lake for inspiration. Furniture had to strike a balance between being plush and sophisticated but also relaxed,’ says Nina.

The kitchen of simple Shaker cabinetry in walnut, pine and green is elevated with cast bronze handles. ‘While they’re beautiful, they’re not too ornate,’ says Nina. The open shelves ensure that guests can easily grab crockery and glassware. Along with bespoke rugs that have taken over a year to make, Nina has curated a medley of fabrics and textures.

Needlework quilts, traditional Welsh blankets, carved Alpine furniture and the local granite of the fireplaces strike a ‘gemütlich’ mood reminiscent of an Austrian chalet. Designed very much as what Nina calls a ‘throwback’, free from screens and tech, this alluring retreat beguiles its visitors with the promise of complete escape – and perhaps nobody will notice if the Wi-Fi router is unplugged.

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It was a pressure that designer Brittany Marom was willing to take on when she designed the home of poet Heather Gluck – a three-bedroom apartment in SoHo, New York. Much like the poet, the designer brings a vivid background and aesthetic to her work too. Her style reflects her Israeli roots and New York upbringing – blending antique elements with modern, organic materials.

Together, the creatives collaborated on their individualistic interior design styles to craft a bohemian style home that infuses elegance with eclectic charm. It's a 'high-low mix' of affordable furniture and unique investment pieces.

For this 3,000-square-foot SoHo apartment, Brittany Marom aimed to blend character with chic. She explains, 'Heather is a deeply creative individual, and as a poet, it was essential that her home not only reflect but also inspire her artistic spirit. With that in mind, we designed a beautiful bohemian yet elegant space, rich in layers and soft, flowing curves – elements that echo her love for movement, color, and openness.'

'While I personally love working with color, this project pushed me to explore combinations beyond my usual comfort zone,' adds the designer. 'I had to find ways to make unexpected color combinations work harmoniously together.'

The open-plan living room flows seamlessly into the dining area, where tones and textures beautifully merge to create a cohesive whole.

'In the living room, I combined jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue in the sofas with bold lipstick red and soft pinks in the dining area,' says Brittany. 'To take it further, we added vibrancy through throw pillows in rich amethyst purple, gold, and floral prints from House of Hackney. These bold choices were grounded with natural wood elements in the coffee and dining tables, helping to anchor the palette and create visual balance.'

As a whimsical element, the designer layered in pale pink sheer curtains that not only filter light during the day but also allow for stunning, unrestricted views of the NYC skyline – enhancing both the ambiance and Heather’s connection to her environment.

Since the poet entertains often, seating is abundant throughout the apartment – yet each piece was carefully chosen for both deep comfort and visual appeal. Interestingly, behind all the thoughtful decisions, affordability and beauty were carefully balanced.

'We sourced both high and low for the home in terms of decor. In the living room, we bought the sofas from ModShop in Kravet re-upholstered in blue and Romo, upholstered in emerald green fabrics, coffee tables from Sixpenny, the floor lamp from Soho Home, and curtain fabric from JAB Anstoetz,' shares Brittany.

The dining room, with its 10-seater table, ensures that both large and small gatherings are easily accommodated – comfortable and convivial in equal measure.

'Heather is a young artist, and we wanted her dining room to reflect that youthful energy and creative spirit,' explains Brittany. 'We reupholstered the Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel dining chairs in a vibrant mix of red, pink, and autumn brown. To complete the look and add a touch of drama, we installed a jewel-toned chandelier with scalloped detailing from Galerie Glustin, which beautifully ties the space together with an eclectic yet cohesive flair.'

As a further decorative accent, the designer sourced a multicolored light fixture from Galerie Glustin to add a modern, playful touch.

While green is dotted throughout the living and dining areas, it is fully realized in the kitchen with a singular, deep green shade – Benjamin Moore’s ‘Martha's Vineyard’ – a crisp, contemporary, and statement-making hue. ‘The space features a green quartzite, custom cabinetry, and a stove from Ilve, with a touch of wood to warm up the aesthetics,’ says Brittany.

Like a page from a well-curated lookbook, the bathroom emerges as a dainty jewel box, where soft pink and white create a moment of calm – restorative colors that coax you to stay.

‘Wallpapering the powder room was an easy decision, but we wanted to maintain a sense of brightness and airiness while still creating a feeling of being transported to another time and place,’ says Brittany. ‘To achieve this balance, we tiled the lower walls in crisp white Thassos subway tile, introducing natural stone and subtle texture through the grout lines.

'Not only does the tile ground the room visually, but it also offers a practical solution – since this is the bathroom guests use most often while entertaining, the tiled backsplash behind the sink makes for much easier maintenance than wallpaper alone.’

The nature-inspired bathroom wallpaper, filled with cranes and foliage, adds an unexpected touch to this small but impactful space.

The true "high-low" aesthetic converges in the bedroom, which is drenched in the calming pink seen throughout the home, making the space feel like a true sanctuary. Here, a vintage Murano glass chandelier and bedside tables from Soho Home pair effortlessly with table lamps from West Elm.

‘We chose a monochromatic color scheme centered around soft pink, enveloping the room in warmth and subtle elegance,’ says Brittany. ‘The hue flows throughout the space – from the bedding and walls to the window treatments – creating a cohesive and tranquil atmosphere.’

To introduce contrast and a touch of drama, the designer selected a velvet emerald green headboard as the focal point – its rich tone standing out beautifully against the softer surroundings. As a final, unexpected layer, oxblood red bedside table lamps add a sense of warmth and depth, complementing the oak wood and Art Deco-inspired design of the nightstands.

For Heather, this is the perfect oasis. ‘As a poet, I don’t work in broad strokes – in pages or sentences – but in the fine details: syllables, sounds, textures,’ she says. ‘My writing is sensitive and a bit obsessive, and I knew that when I began crafting this home, I wanted it to feel the same way. That every item, large and small, would serve a purpose, stand out, and yet cohere with the whole.'

This home is a perfect example of how to design a plush, high-concept space with affordability in mind. Every element is thoughtfully curated, and even the placements are considered – making it an ideal hearth for thinking, creating, and reflecting.

Tasked with creating a modern, liveable space that acknowledges the period architecture, Kristen Thomas, founder and principal designer of Studio Thomas, took inspiration from the owners' European heritage and their 'beautifully curated lives' when designing this Modern European style home.

While combining modernity and history is not always easy, the Studio Thomas undoubtedly perfected the balance between forward-thinking, modern design and rich, traditional architecture. The result is an elevated yet functional family home that's authentic to both its owners and the deep-rooted history of the building.

Studio Thomas spoke to Homes & Gardens, filling us in on the impressive design process. Each room is an example of transitional design at its very best and connects to the wider design narrative that 'bridges a gap between the old and the new'.

It makes sense that the kitchen is Kristen's favorite room. From the marble to the gold accents, it's a luxurious yet practical space that fulfills the owner's needs while acting as a source of inspiration.

The kitchen is wrapped in Panzano marble, from the marble countertops to the backsplash and oven hood, it's been transformed into an elegant space that nods to both minimalism and timeless grandeur.

Kristen explains, 'The kitchen was really the heart of the design – it’s where we started, and it ended up setting the tone for the entire home. We sourced a stunning slab of Panzano marble that’s full of rich greens, deep blues, and creamy undertones. It has this organic warmth and character that completely shaped the color palette for the rest of the house.'

Kristen said, 'At the same time, the home had been renovated in parts – particularly the kitchen, which had taken on an ultra-modern, almost sterile aesthetic that felt disconnected from the rest of the house. Our job was to thoughtfully bridge the gap between the old and the new. We reimagined the kitchen and other areas using materials and details that honored the home’s heritage, such as live-finish plumbing fixtures and classic cabinetry, while still allowing for modern living.'

'There’s also a small breakfast nook in the kitchen that I absolutely love,' Kristen continues. 'It’s not a massive space, but it’s full of charm – a cozy banquette with a custom oval table we designed specifically for family gatherings. I think that’s part of what makes this home so special: it’s not about grand scale, it’s about thoughtful, intimate moments. The rooms aren’t huge, but they’re full of soul.'

'The nook area has this charming custom oval table for casual family meals. It’s not huge, but it’s beautifully scaled, and that’s part of what makes this house special. It’s large, but the rooms feel intimate.'

Despite decorating with neutrals, Kristen ensured that every shade of the spectrum was incorporated in the design, using plenty of textural layers to create even more warmth. She said, 'Throughout, we played with contrast – dark wood floors, cream plaster walls, and a tone-on-tone trim in Benjamin Moore's Baby Fawn, which reads as a warm, soft white. Antique brass fixtures add an aged feel that will only get better over time.'

The entryway is the perfect amalgamation of eclectic and curated, setting the bar for transitional decorating ideas. The checkboard flooring (featured throughout the property) adds to its grandeur and is balanced by the more modern furnishings and minimal color palette. Honoring the architecture, Kristen has avoided creating a pastiche by enhancing the framework of the space with contemporary touches.

'Even the stair railing was custom forged by an artisan to bring something sculptural and refined into a highly functional element,' explains Kristen. The dark wood stool and wall hangings bring a sense of warmth that varies the palette and ties in with the cozy snug that peeks through the arched doorway.

The perfect retreat after a long day, this space strays from traditional snug room ideas; it has the perfect mixture of formality and comfort. The dark color palette brings a rich decadence to the room, with the dark furniture and metallic touches, it welcomes its occupant and encourages them to sit back and relax.

Despite decorating with black, Kristen has incorporated a vintage brown leather armchair to offset against the darkness, bringing a lived-in, homely quality to a room designed for lounging and enjoyment. Note the effect that one leafy houseplant can have in a one-toned room, providing a freshness that counteracts the richness of the walls and decor.

The home bar is small but mighty. Located through an arched doorway, the space features an array of metallic accents, including the tarnished mirror walls that frame the shelves. The marble countertop ties in with the kitchen design and is balanced with the deep gray cabinets. The various materials exude grandeur that's so fitting for a bar.

You'll notice an array of sculptural pieces scattered throughout the property, like the organic-shaped stool in this space that brings a contemporary coolness that balances against the luxurious, Art-Deco feel.

The property's impressive architecture makes each and every room feel like an artful creation that honors the past. However, the living room is perhaps the best example of the building's jaw-dropping infrastructure, enhanced by Studio Thomas' accomplished interior design.

Kristen explains, 'In the living room, we kept the original ceiling molding and painted it a rich green to draw the eye up and emphasize its beauty. The shape of the room was more rectangular, so we commissioned a custom curved sofa to soften the space and create better balance. These little spatial decisions matter so much.'

A mix between a traditional living room and a minimal one, Kristen incorporated luxurious materials to bring decadence to the space, balanced by the neutral color palette and modern curved-shaped sofa.

Kristen said, 'We were very intentional about layering in warmth and softness. Every wall in the house is plastered by hand, and when you walk in, you immediately feel that old-world richness. It adds history and depth that just can’t be replicated with flat paint. The same goes for the drapery – everything puddles on the floor with full French pleats, which feels both luxurious and relaxed. The client is European, so it was important to honor that sensibility throughout the home.'

The gothic-style windows frame the dining area. 'We also loved the idea of mixing the historic and the modern, especially where we had to update things like the windows. We used black-clad frames in areas where we didn’t have original leaded glass, and we brought in modern lighting to complement the European bones of the house.'

Despite mixing decades in the space, there's an impressive harmony between varying furniture styles. Take the traditional dining table and chairs and the Chinoiserie ceramics, which bring a formality to the area, balanced with the boucle sofa and the round, low-slung coffee table.

Due to the curated design method, even the tiniest details feel thoughtful. There's plenty of visual interest, yet the design allows the original features to sing in unison. This little hallway area is the perfect example of this, where Kristen has brought in a simple wooden stool and rustic bowl to contrast against the white walls.

She said, 'One of the most rewarding parts of this home was the balance we struck between preserving its original character and breathing new life into it. Those arches inspired additional architectural moments throughout the home. We even brought in a fill painter to extend the look of the original stonework, so it felt truly seamless.'

One way to make a bedroom darker is by using deep, earthy tones, like the rich forest green in the master bedroom that covers the built-in cabinetry and back wall. The area is a statement feature that encourages you to enter, sparking a sense of warmth and coziness. Kristen has continued to scatter gold accents to create luxury and sophistication, balancing this decadence with neutral linen bedding that brings comfort and balance in terms of color.

The minimal yet timeless walk-in closet is refreshingly simple and retains that sense of classic elegance that exudes throughout the home. Despite its sophistication, the closet is an example of the owners' needs being met, every room facilitates everyday living to the fullest.

The gold accents and statement chandelier nod to the heritage grandeur of the building, encompassing a sense of decadence. The neutral colors allow the architecture of the room to speak without overwhelming, acting as the perfect blank canvas that inspires and uplifts the owners as they begin their day.

'In the master bathroom, we kept things very quiet and minimal – Taj Mahal stone counters, plastered walls, and live-finish plumbing fixtures,' explains Kristen. 'There’s a hidden door to the closet that looks like part of the wall. The idea was for everything to feel effortless, beautiful, and purposeful.'

She adds, 'I also love how personalized the home is. We didn’t just design a space – we helped tell their story. There’s vintage children’s clothing shadowboxed in the master bath, and original sketches from artisans representing where the family is from. These details are quiet but deeply meaningful.'

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Kristen describes the home as 'a thoughtful blend of old-world charm and contemporary design, rooted in tradition, but with a fresh, edited sensibility'. It's an effortless coming together of contemporary styles to suit modern-day life and traditional pieces that nod to the original features which are such a huge part of this home and a focal point of nearly every room.

What do you expect to find behind the doors of a Grade II-listed Victorian townhouse in the prettiest area of London? Ornate fixtures? Rooms filled with antiques? Floral wallpaper and heavily patterned drapes? What you probably wouldn't first think of is Japandi meets mid-century modern meets, yes, just a touch of Victorian tradition.

Restored by designer Tom Rutt, founder of TR Studio, this remodel effortlessly blends the old and the new. Bringing together contrasting interior design styles without any clashes or contradiction. There's a clear harmony and serenity in this space, and that was big part of Tom's brief and vision.

'This project was an opportunity to reimagine a historic property, blending its Victorian heritage with the contemporary needs of our clients,' Tom explains. 'By drawing inspiration from the philosophy of kintsugi and the Japandi aesthetic, we celebrated the beauty of imperfection and crafted a home that is both timeless and deeply personal.'

'Every detail, from the restored period features to the introduction of modern materials and spatial reconfiguration, was designed to create a harmonious retreat that supports wellness and connection within the heart of the city.'

Knowing the meaning behind kintsugi really gives this project context, and you can understand how it was such a core part of the home's overhaul. It's the Japanese philosophy and practice based on repairing broken pottery with gold-dusted lacquer to not only fix the piece but make it more beautiful and more unique than it ever was.

You can see why the concept could so easily be a metaphor for an old home in need of a total transformation. It's an approach that's evident throughout the whole property, he original floorboards and skirting were meticulously repaired, as was the staircase and the fireplaces.

'The clients wanted a relaxed, Scandinavian/Japandi feel for their home,' continues Tom. 'They wanted to keep the original trim and skirting whilst opening up the home and having better connectivity and flow throughout. They enjoy hosting, so they wanted a large dining room and kitchen for a social space.'

'The client is also an amateur ceramicist, so they required a studio on the top floor. They both wanted to carry on the healthy Scandinavian way of living, and now having no kids at home, turned the bedroom space into craft and wellness spaces.'

So the key with the remodel was to make this space more open, more relaxing, and more practical too, with a seamless flow throughout the whole home.

Victorian homes are often quite the opposite of open and relaxing and practical, so this was one of Tom's first challenges. How to make a five story townhouse, with small, disjointed rooms into a serene, sociabable, airy home?

'At 5m in width, just under 8m in length and five storeys high, London terraced houses such as these can be a challenge – one that we are familiar with and embrace as a challenge,' says Tom. 'Whilst the upper ground floor has two reception rooms, they don’t utilize the full width of the property due to the entryways and landings on each floor.'

'To counter this, we always aim to create full-width spaces wherever possible – the primary suite, guest bedroom, and pottery studio were all optimized. On the lower ground floor, the kitchen spans fully across the 5m width, and we extended at the rear to create a generous snug where you can appreciate the space at its fullest.'

The lower ground floor of the home was totally reimagined to work for the openness the clients were after. It was taken from cramped rooms to an open plan space right from front to back. A central courtyard garden was a key addition to let more light into the living spaces and give the whole ground floor an more connected feel.

'The lower ground floor allowed us to play around with inside/outside living, and this always impacts spaces the most, where light can penetrate where it didn’t previously. Being connected with light, nature, and the elements can enhance our wellbeing, and this is always a key factor for us when we approach a new project.'

'To see the improvement in the quality of life and the everyday connection with the home is such a reward for us as designers. The courtyard on the lower ground floor offers a glimpse of the outside whilst being cozy and allowing the family to be altogether on one floor.'

The upper floors of the home have the same serene atmosphere, and what's more serene than a sauna? The addition of a sauna/bathroom was part of the brief right from the start, as it's such a key part of the Scandi lifestyle that the homeowners wanted to embrace in this house.

The walls of the sauna are painted in Clayworks Tadelakt dark green plaster for tactility. 'Our client was extremely interested in the quality of materials being installed as well as the comfort level they evoke so we opted for clay on the walls, a soft, textured finish that has a multi-dimensional quality and an almost calming influence which contrasted against the existing Victorian features throughout the rest of the house,' explains Tom.

In the bedroom, you'll notice the ornate cornicing. As Tom mentioned, maintaining these original features was important to the homeowners, but they needed to work with their more pared-back, minimalist style.

This space is the perfect example of how the traditional features effortlessly work as a backdrop for contemporary tastes. The simplicity of the rest of the rooms makes the ceiling trim even more of a focal feature.

As requested, the top floor would need to be a ceramics studio, but also have the ability to shape shift if required. A roof addition was added to the space to again add more light, openness, and height to the loft room. The addition also incorporated a terrace so the indoor/outdoor feel of the ground floor could continue on the top floor too.

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The philosophy of kintsugi clearly applies to this home that's been so thoughtful restored and remodeled for a totally different kind of life that the house would have seen in it's Victorian times. It's a property that wasn't necessarily broken, but it wasn't working well either and needed taking apart and putting back together in a way that made it more beautiful and more practical for modern day living.

However, when they fell in love with this 100-year-old Tudor-revival style property, they realised they might need a little help to bring the house design up to date. They felt it was important to honor the history of the property while enlarging it and equipping it for a modern family lifestyle.

A close collaboration between interior designer Martha Dayton, and the team at PKA Architecture proved the perfect solution.

'The design team approached the remodel and addition of this historic house with a sense of respect, practicality, and delight,' says Ryan Fish of PKA. Take the tour to discover how the finished look balances these key attributes.

The new kitchen is housed in a large addition at the back of the house. Bright and spacious with white cabinets, the room is now oriented towards the creek, and the refreshing greenery that surrounds it. An unusual triangle-shaped kitchen island proved to be the best fit for the space. A smart backsplash of blue lantern-shaped tiles adds subtle color and pattern to the clean white space.

'The kitchen was the most difficult room for the entire design team. The angles posed a significant challenge with regard to kitchen workflow. However, after several iterations, we successfully created a literal kitchen triangle. Adding the coffered ceiling as well as the V groove helped to create critical historical details and well as defining spaces,' adds Ryan.

It's in this newly built part of the home that we get to appreciate just how expertly the architects and design team have blended old and new. White cabinetry and countertops give the main kitchen a contemporary feel, but look through to the butler's pantry, with its wooden cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore Providence Blue 1636, and you'll see that this home has modern and traditional styles equally well covered.

'Although the homeowners originally considered a more modern glass-box addition, they ultimately decided on a renovation that honored the existing home’s Tudor style and craftsmanship. That said, it’s not overly traditional; we definitely updated the design to better suit a modern family of six and the potential for live-in grandparents,' says Martha.

The home bar, part of the informal dining space in the open plan kitchen, picks up the same Benjamin Moore Providence Blue shade as used in the butler's pantry.

'We stayed very true to the house and its classic American style, but we were still able to have some fun. For example, the bar area features upper cabinets fronted with antique glass in a cross pattern that felt appropriate to the house,' says Martha.

'The historic sunken living room at the front of the house is a favorite of the entire team,' says Ryan at PKA. 'It is one room that stayed completely authentic to its original form. The design team added a feature bookshelf wall and renewed and defined an existing fireplace and reading nook.'

We love the old-world charm of this home library/living room, with its wall of books, traditional club chairs, and all-around cozy feel.

Although the architecture of this space remains as it was when the house was built in 1927, many of the traditional-style fittings, bookshelves included, are new additions, as interior designer Martha explains: 'We redid everything and updated the fireplace with new built-ins. We used materials that felt like they could have been original to the home. This room exudes coziness, and we tried to replicate that feeling throughout the home,' she says.

It's the family living room at the back of the house that gets the most use. Open plan to the kitchen and with its walls of glass, it gives this active family the perfect gathering spot, and easy access to the outdoor world.

'As you move through the house, the spaces expand and open to expansive views of the creek and prioritize the creation of cozy and collective moments throughout the house,' adds Ryan.

The architects and designers promised their remodel would include a sense of delight, and this light, bright room in the roof certainly ticks that box.

It's a space that stylishly and successfully combines the opposing concepts of airy and spacious with intimate and cozy. Natural, neutral furnishings – woven-top table, vintage rug, and leather sofa by Gerard van den Berg – and Benjamin Moore White Dove walls all play their part.

'This surprising and wonderful hangout space in the attic of the home is one of the design team's favorite spaces,' says Ryan. 'In the beginning of the design of the addition, this space was thought of as an additional covered exterior space. But as the design unfolded, it evolved and became a new dynamic family space that feels more like a tree house than an attic space because of the added roof windows and Juliet balcony.'

An indoor tree house? That's our kind of room.

Also at the top of the house, this attractive and colorful attic bedroom is used as a guest room. Storage solutions abound here. There's a platform bed with drawers underneath, and built-in bookshelves have been fitted elsewhere in the room.

For this bathroom scheme, Martha chose an eye-catching wallpaper and complemented it with slate blue subway tiles and gold hardware. 'The clients were willing to trust us and go out on a limb with the wall coverings, which was fun,' she says.

For Martha, this small room sums up the design ethos throughout the home. 'It’s the kind of house that could have gone two ways,' she explains. 'Sure, you’re renovating for the year 2024 or 2025, and you want it to be fresh and filled with modern amenities. But that can go really wrong if you lose the character and spirit of a house that, in this case, was built in the 1920s. So what we did was give this family a home with everything they want for the future, but that still honors the bones and beauty of the home’s past.'

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Architecture: PKA Architecture
Interior Design: Martha Dayton
Photography: Taylor Hall O’Brien

There is, in fact, a rustic farmhouse hiding deep on the site, and the best part is that it's listed for under $16K. The Western Red Cedar Wood Home (available at Wayfair) is the latest in a series of tiny homes we have noticed popping up on various sites, emphasising a real estate trend that's dominating conversations this 2025: Tiny homes.

These homes differ in their functionalities, but they all have one thing in common: their unbelievably tiny size. In the case of the Western Red, however, it comes with a host of features that make the unit feel less like a shed and more like a home.

To begin, the home's exterior is designed to make a lasting impression. It features a spacious terrace, two windows, planter boxes, and decorative shutters, which give the house a quintessential, country-inspired aesthetic.

Inside, the home has a plywood floor and cedar floor framing, creating a neutral canvas that's ready for decorating.

Whether used as a vacation home or a primary residence, the desire for tiny home living is ever present, but not wholly surprising, as real estate experts explain.

'Intrigue has grown around modern homes as there has been a slight social shift away from that ‘excessive luxury living’, and people are leaning towards a more achievable aspiration, which tiny homes tap into perfectly. They are cosy, often cleverly designed, and the opposite of the very vast yet lifeless spaces that I feel people struggle to connect with,' says Adam Wright, a market specialist and sales valuer at Paramount Properties.

At under $10K, the prospect of a new, tiny home isn't out of reach, but there are some elements to consider before investing, as Adam says.

'One thing people need to consider before they invest in a tiny home is the storage options,' he says.'You have to ask yourself if this home will be able to grow with you and your belongings. Since we are based in a city, space is already a luxury, and we’ve seen how smart built-in storage can make all the difference. But, with the right design, small doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or functionality.'

It's no surprise, then, that the world is growing ever aware of ultra-small room living. You can read up more about the most stylish tiny homes in this book (available at Amazon) below.

Would you ever move into a super tiny home? Let us know in the comments below.

The Prefab Modern Design Luxury Villa (available on Amazon) is one of a series of tiny homes that have emerged in recent months. However, as the name might suggest, this is one of the best. The specifications describe it as the 'perfect family home,' with an 'expandable design' that can house around four people. It's expertly designed to include up to four bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen area, and separate wet and dry bathrooms.

With this unit, you can enjoy the flexibility of small room living in ways you never thought possible. The overall interior layout is customizable to suit personal preferences, featuring options such as terraces and glass curtain walls to maximize sunlight.

If you are looking to use a tiny home as a vacation villa, or your primary residence, you're not alone. Ryan Fitzgerald, a real estate expert and owner of Raleigh Realty, explains that tiny homes, much like this one, mark a shift in how people think about homeownership for 2025 and beyond.

'More and more, clients bring up tiny homes not as a novelty, but as a real option. And the interest does not come from just one group,' Ryan comments.

'It’s young professionals trying to avoid long mortgages, older couples looking to downsize, even people who want to live simply without the constant upkeep of a larger home. What’s drawing people in isn’t just the price tag, though that’s a big part of it. It’s the idea that home doesn’t have to mean excess. It can mean just enough.'

To what can we owe the surge in tiny home popularity? Ryan explains that house prices are a key catalyst, alongside people's desire for freedom.

'In today’s world, the appeal makes sense. Housing prices are climbing in most cities. Utility bills keep rising. People are feeling the pressure of financial commitments that stretch too far,' he says.

'A tiny home promises something different. Lower cost, less waste, and the freedom to live without constant upkeep. For some, it’s about being able to own something outright. For others, it’s the flexibility. The idea is that you can take your home with you, move it to a quieter place, or live off-grid if that’s what you want. That level of mobility is something traditional housing just doesn’t offer.'

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'Tiny homes are more than a trend. They’re part of a bigger conversation about how we live, what we value, and how much space we really need,' Ryan adds.

'For the right person, they offer something traditional homes can’t. Just make sure you go into it with a clear view of the upside and the trade-offs. That’s how you turn a smart idea into a solid decision.' Would you ever buy a tiny home? Or turn to small space living for good? Please do let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Its construction was completed in 2024 and, says Jeanne, 'combines elements of modernism – design clarity, a reinvention of traditional forms, large expanses of glass – with a brutalist sense of physicality that celebrates raw, honest materials'.

The interiors also challenge expectations and conventions, with the designer describing the look as 'sexy disco-era Italy meets Japanese farmhouse in the Brazilian jungle'. Take the tour and discover how she combines these elements in a coherent way.

'I wanted to build something solid and lasting that would become the backdrop for conversations and celebrations for the rest of our lives. Those thoughts deeply informed the material palette and the layering of textures,' says designer Jeanne. 'Several of the most technical design challenges stemmed from the home’s architectural big swing: the use of triple-pane glass panels as the sole exterior material surrounding the main level. Without any solid exterior walls, we had to put careful thought into making the home feel private.'

By setting the front facade back from the street and surrounding it with a concrete balcony railing, the living area retains an open, airy feeling but cannot be seen from the street.

Outside spaces were every bit as important as the interiors, so Jeanne worked with landscape designer Lauren Hall-Behrens of Lilyvilla Gardens to turn the backyard into an extension of the living area.

'Hardscape and furnishings and indoor/outdoor plant palettes had to complement each other, and landscape design also figured prominently into designing for privacy,' says Jeanne. 'Over time, as the landscape matures, the home will be surrounded by sculptural multi-stem trees that create intriguing shadows and soft grasses that move with the wind.'

There's a sense of movement inside too, as furnishings in the living and dining area float within the space. Living room ideas include an enormous 1970 Milo Baughman sofa, covered in mustard-yellow Lee Jofa cotton velvet. 'This echoes the low stone wall winding around the rain garden,' says Jeanne. 'In the mornings, when the sun is low, the disco ball hung in the backyard pergola sparkles light across the ceiling.'

A wool rug and a Studio SORS lounge chair covered in New Zealand sheepskin balance all the reflective and translucent surfaces, which play with the room’s extraordinary light throughout the day. The tiered glass coffee table is a vintage find from local dealer Urbanite.

In the kitchen, materials are the star. The red Brazilian Mirage quartzite that clads the kitchen island was a happy accident, explains Jeanne. 'I went to the stone warehouse to select soapstone slabs, but a trio of wildly veined red slabs caught my eye and I couldn’t get them out of my head,' she says. 'The warehouse had just enough material for our island, so it was obviously meant to be. Seeing millions of years of history captured in this incredible stone gives me so much joy every day and reminds me that the most worthwhile things are often forged under pressure.'

Jeanne specified unlacquered brass in the kitchen alcove and backsplash to give a sense that the kitchen cube glows from within. The material will also show wear and change over time.

'At our first dinner party, we invited our friends to put their handprints all over the brass. I love that those marks are integral to the house now, and that more will follow them. The patina that develops over the years will become an important part of the story of this home. '

Striking brass lighting from Larose Guyon gives the dining room space a bit of decorative focus and provides a contrast with the sculptural, faceted dining chairs by Vondom.

Jeanne Feldkamp's background in fashion and textiles means that there are some real standout pieces among the furnishings in this new home.

The reading nook features a spectacular Savanna armchair by Tiago Curioni, one of just five produced by hand from natural Brazilian rattan. Next to it is a side table from Souda Brooklyn made from concrete cast in a spandex form. 'Both pieces felt very alive to me. They’re funny, friendly furniture creatures that seem right at home in the landscape surrounding them,' adds Jeanne.

There's a very different feel to the powder room, which is hidden behind a concealed flush door in the main living space's central cube.

'I wanted this room to evoke the feeling of being immersed in the forest, where everything is rough and natural but you feel a real sense of calm and safety,' says Jeanne.

There's a more glamorous and yet traditional edge to the space too, with a fern print wallcovering supplied by local wallpaper studio Makelike in a custom green and gold colorway. A locally salvaged walnut slab forms the countertop, which supports a custom hand-carved onyx sink sourced through 1stDibs.

The primary bedroom’s 18-foot expanse of west-facing windows ensures that the room is flooded with light throughout the day. A Stark grasscloth wallcovering with metallic backing softly reflects this light, creating a warm glow. Jeanne's choice of an Axolight Cloudy fixture in the center of the room offers a nod to the Pacific Northwest’s famously rainy climate.

'The rope wall hanging from Windy Chien’s Circuit Boards series spoke to me right away,' says Jeanne. 'Her work is about exploring the connections between technology and craft, which is something I think a lot about as well.

'Ultimately, every element of this home is about connection. My priority was to create a space where people can connect authentically with each other, with the garden and the neighborhood that surrounds the living space, and with the structure itself. That’s why I felt strongly that the construction and material selections should convey total honesty. I didn’t want to hide any of their natural character. This house celebrates the beauty of imperfection.'

Interior design: Jeanne Feldkamp at Heirloom Modern
Architecture: Waechter Architecture
Landscape design: Lilyvilla Gardens
Lighting design: Biella Lighting
Photography: Pablo Enriquez

The modernist family home was built in 2024, for a young couple who wanted their home to be distinctive, personal and fresh. They were looking for bold design choices, and interior designer Joshua Rice certainly delivered with his curated, highly detailed, and thoughtful modernist interiors.

Take the tour, as Joshua reveals how he balanced modern decor ideas with warm, inviting, and luxurious interiors.

Joshua's ideas for the living room brought together a dynamic mix of eras and origins, combining sleek modern pieces with the organic warmth of wood, stone, leather, textiles, and patinated metals.

'This curated approach balances sophistication and comfort, creating a timeless, collected feel,' says the designer.

This seating cluster in the sunken living room includes a pair of 1958 Jumbo Chairs by Olof Ottelin, ideal for intimate conversations, and framed by a paneled wood cabinet dividing the living room from the dining area. At the heart of the living space is a custom 'BLR' walnut daybed with maple joinery and an oxblood leather cushion designed by Joshua Rice.

Kitchen ideas focus on the contemporary aspects of this build, with clean, minimalist lines and modern materials used to provide subtle but luxurious detailing.

'Wide-plank brushed white oak flooring and honed Ceppo Di Gre limestone countertops establish a warm yet refined foundation in the kitchen and scullery,' says Joshua. 'And custom millwork in moody fumed white oak veneer is complemented by high-end Fenix laminate, maximizing functionality.'

An integrated Corian tabletop on the island provides space for meals and homework.

The working area of the kitchen includes a Gaggenau appliance suite, a hideaway coffee station with pocket doors, and a reeded glass home bar with bi-fold doors for discreet storage.

It's hard to imagine a more relaxing place to sit than this family living room on the property's second floor. This thoughtfully designed space is perfect for family gatherings, TV watching, quiet moments, or simply enjoying the view

'The room is bathed in natural light, softened by the trees outside, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. We aimed to create a serene retreat, seamlessly connected to the outdoors through floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding treetops,' says Joshua. Mission accomplished.

A spacious Frigerio Spa sectional in textured fabric anchors the space, paired with earthy tones, layered textiles, and a natural fiber rug for warmth and texture. A built-in ledge beneath the windows displays curated objects and provides practical storage.

Backed by a wall of grey limestone, the dining room juxtaposes rare vintage Giuseppe Rivadossi walnut armchairs, hand-carved with a gouge-cut texture, against a smoky gray rippled cast glass table. The design is completed at both ends of the table by classic ‘Africa’ chairs from Maxalto's Artona series by Afra and Tobia Scarpa.

A sweeping evergreen light fixture by Formafantasma for Flos adds a contemporary touch against the distinctive darkened wood batten ceiling. The dark wood ceiling enhances the modernist aesthetic, seamlessly integrating lighting, fire sprinklers, and a state-of-the-art sound system into its grooves.

'This ceiling detail not only adds warmth and visual depth but also connects the interior to the home's façade, where the same fumed wood motif continues across the exterior soffits and cladding, creating a unified design language,' explains Joshua.

The movie room emphasizes comfort and functionality with a custom-designed cantilevered sofa with deep cushions providing a cozy setting for family movie nights. The large windows throughout the residence help blur the boundary between interior and exterior, allowing natural light and unobstructed views of the mature trees to enhance the interior living spaces.

'The landscape design by Paper Kites Studio plays a key role in this project by providing a sense of seclusion from the street, ensuring that the yard and private patios remain an intimate retreat,' adds Joshua.

'One of the most exciting aspects of the project was the opportunity to use an exotic material palette,' says designer Joshua. 'Given that this was the couple’s first custom-built home, they were eager to take risks, and we were able to guide them in selecting materials that would bring their vision to life.'

The owners were open to new ideas for shape and structure too, clearly demonstrated by the sculptural stairway in white oak, which makes a fine display space for handcrafted ceramics.

'The owners' willingness to embrace bold, rich choices in interior design allowed us to recommend darker tones and more luxurious finishes that might have otherwise felt too daring,' adds Joshua.

The primary suite is a relaxing and ordered retreat with sliding doors opening to a private patio. White oak millwork with hidden storage and an art ledge defines the headboard wall, seamlessly integrated with matching combed siding for added texture.

The astonishing primary bathroom features a refined material palette of Iceland dark marble, Japanese glazed mosaic tile, and white oak.

It's a room full of custom stone elements, by far the most striking being this freestanding elliptical tub carved from a single block of marble. Elsewhere, there are integrated vanities, and a shower bench. The Japanese tile by Inax adds subtle texture, while Watermark fixtures with matching stone handles complete the design.

Interior design: Joshua Rice Design
Architecture: Smitharc Architecture + Interiors
Landscape design: Paper Kites Studio
Photography: Lacey Land

‘I’d like to think my schemes are elegant, calm and welcoming, aspirational but still comfortable,’ she says. These are all words that easily describe the interior design style of her latest project, a five-floor, mid-terrace townhouse in London (it officially has four bedrooms, but one has been repurposed as a playroom).

‘I was listening to the family tell me they wanted a home to be proud of, and one they could entertain in. They’re young and not very traditional, but I got the sense they wanted to impress, so my mood board quickly became about sumptuous materials, jewel colors, plenty of pattern, and the idea that more is more – a real sense of theatre,’ says Lara.

With such a tall building split over many levels, and with so many exciting patterns going on, the dining room and cloakroom stand out as especially decorative and dynamic. The difficulty for Lara was in making a home that felt cohesive. ‘The half landings were particularly tricky,’ she says. ‘I just tried to use color to connect them to the other rooms, and that ended up being what unified the house.’

She’s talking partly about the terracotta carpet that snakes up the stairs, running between spaces like the sitting room on the ground level and the main bedroom above. ‘I like that it’s a two-tone carpet, not a solid color,’ she says of the burnt-orange flecks within it. ‘It’s better from a practical point of view, of course, hiding dirt, but it softens the hue too.’

Just as successful is the way she has painted the skirting boards in unexpected colors to suit the rooms they’re in – there is no standard white eggshell here. ‘The devil is in the details,’ she says. ‘And it’s those moments that elevate the spaces. Those little touches that aren’t gaudy, nor traditional, but fresh and sophisticated.’

In their child's bedroom, powder blue skirting and cornicing are paired with buttery yellow walls. Downstairs, the cloakroom boasts a red-tinged brown wood trim against a floral wallpaper. The standout mural in the dining room is flanked by green skirting and sky-blue cornicing, matching the tropical garden motif.

‘We did look at having paneling, but that would have chopped up the wall. Instead, having green woodwork at the bottom of the mural and blue on the ceiling meant that your focus on the pattern wasn’t broken, and the wallpaper was the hero,’ says Lara. ‘And then, because we were embracing the idea of more is more, the crystal chandelier didn’t break your view of the motif, but added some sparkle and a sense of fun.’

Lara used many tricks to ensure that sense of plush luxury throughout. ‘We went for the biggest bed possible,’ she says of the impressive emperor-sized four-poster in the main bedroom.

Elsewhere, the vanity in the couple’s bathroom is topped with 15-centimeter-thick marble. ‘If you just use stone as a horizontal surface, then you don’t see it until you’re on top of it,’ says Lara. ‘Plus, this depth handily hides the undermounted basins.’

When it came to keeping the living room cocooning and enveloping and, yes, sumptuous, Lara wanted to hide the TV as much as possible. Tucking it into an alcove on the T-shaped layout, hanging it low on the wall, and placing a much bigger artwork opposite detracted from it as much as possible. ‘The dark painting above the sofa provided a real contrast,’ says Lara. ‘And an opportunity for a different focus.’

The whole home is a trove of treasures to pull your focus, to revel in the theatre of how exciting good design can be, and a masterclass in using color in ways to delight and entertain.

Meet the designer

Lara Bates shares her style inspiration

What small change would you suggest for a huge impact?
A fresh lick of paint.

Go-to color?
Green - always!

Describe your style in three words.
Elegant, textured, calm

A great museum to visit?
The V&A in London – the temporary exhibitions are always really interesting.

Finish the sentence, 'Home makes me feel...'
Relaxed, because of the palette and fabric – for me, a home is made by what you surround yourself with.

The last thing you bought for your home?
A console carved out of wood that might end up in my hallway.

‘The best look for us is a collected family-friendly look – and that’s what I was going for here.’ Their four-bedroom Florida home, built in 2020, is the second new build Andrew has completed for his wife Katie and their sons Jack, 15, and Henry, 12.

Despite it being a new build, the facade exudes New England period charm, which links to the family’s story. 'We vacation a lot in Martha’s Vineyard, and I have always loved the houses up there. I wanted to make it feel like a Florida home that should be in Martha’s Vineyard,’ explains Andrew.

The impetus was to inject personality into the house so it didn’t feel like a new build. The family has a penchant for decorating with blue (‘it’s like my neutral’, says Andrew), so this color naturally ended up forming a thread through the house, but a cohesive design narrative was not intentional.

‘I like the experience of each room being some sort of a new adventure,’ Andrew continues.‘ I’ve never felt that rooms have to connect or relate to each other. I think it’s great to walk into a room and have this awesome experience, then have another awesome experience that’s completely different from the last one. I love color, so I wanted it to be very colorful.’

It’s no surprise that blue is used to bring vigor to the open-plan kitchen, living area, and breakfast room, ‘but it doesn’t have that color explosion that some of the other rooms have,’ comments Andrew. Instead, it's the playful pattern that truly invigorates the space.

‘I like it when things feel alive and energetic,’ says Andrew. The starting point was the striped wallpaper in the living area, with a gingham design taking centre stage in the breakfast nook. As the kitchen has no windows, apart from a door with a window, maximizing light was key. ‘I did a shiny ceiling to reflect light into the room and added a shimmering splashback,’ explains Andrew.

As a nod to practicality, the banquette is coated in vinyl in the breakfast room, and this maxim was continued through the house. ‘Everything in this house, other than the sitting room, for the most part, has either vinyl wallpaper or custom-made wallpaper that is scuff-resistant, and most of the fabric that you sit down on is outdoor fabric. It’s a pretty bulletproof house.’

Andrew aimed to ensure the house told the family’s story. ‘I had two decorator parents, and we lived in nice houses, but we had no idea what was going on. I didn’t feel any connection to anything, and I wanted my family to feel connected to every room here,’ he explains.

‘The media room is inspired by a TV special the family watched that showed Elvis Presley’s jungle room where he watched football, while a photograph of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, their favourite city, takes pride of place.

Andrew also indulged with his own bespoke grown-up space – a guest house that comprises the adults-only party hangout room, complete with a bespoke home bar. ‘As a kid, I was in a band that played in a room called the green room at the local bar – it was a cool place to hang out, and I wanted to replicate that space,’ he explains.

The formal dining room, meanwhile, features a nostalgic statement mural. ‘It is based on a special trip we took to Martha’s Vineyard when the kids were little,’ says Andrew. ‘I was inspired by old American murals, and so I drew up a scene from Nantucket based on my photos and had it made up. The mural features a boat we saw, a lighthouse we hiked to, and a dune walk we did. There are fun family memories, and the kids are in the mural, so they can show their friends.’

Perhaps the pièce de résistance of the house, however, is the sitting room, a child-free space reserved for Andrew and his wife to have a leisurely catch-up after work. ‘It’s the first room you see when you come into the house, and I wanted it to be crazy,’ he says. ‘I saw the crewelwork fabric and I knew this was the one. I’ve never done a room with every color in the rainbow, so I thought, let’s go for it.’ Surely, Andrew’s mantra throughout the house.

5 rules of using decorative wallpaper

Designer Andrew Howard offers his tips on creating eye-catching effects with beautifully patterned wallpaper designs

1. Use a wallpaper as the starting point for your decorating scheme. It defines a space, sets the tone for the room, and everything builds off it. Tease out the colours of the wallpaper on woodwork, furniture, and soft furnishings.

2. The sitting room, dining room, and powder room are great spaces to introduce flamboyant, large-scale wallpapers as they will encourage conversation with guests when entertaining. Think about using a paper with a metallic finish to bring a sophisticated touch.

3. Be creative with wallpaper by papering the ceiling, or create a feature in a room with it.

4. If you want to achieve a truly personalised experience and something no one else has, design your wallpaper or mural.

5. Consider adding wallpaper to the insides of glazed cupboards for extra interest.

The original house design created a generous footprint on an expansive plot that lends itself well to California's legendary indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The interiors, though charming in places, hadn't been touched for 58 years and were in serious need of an update. Los Angeles-based interiors studio Jaqui Seerman Design was tasked with redesigning the home, with a view to preserving its mid-century details while bringing the comfort levels and lifestyle options more in line with the current century.

Take the tour to discover how Jaqui and her team created a series of characterful, storied interiors that still reflect the home's origins.

The property was something of a time capsule – the previous owners had lived there since it was built in the 1960s and had left it untouched since then. 'It provided a rare customization opportunity,' says designer Jaqui Seerman. 'The floor plan, typical of its era, featured a closed-off kitchen, live-in quarters, and dark passageways.'

'We opted for a light remodel, focusing on updating communal areas, converting the guest/live-in into a bright office, and increasing natural light throughout. It was also important to our clients to preserve its original charm. In the entryway we refurnished and restored the original slate floor and the existing door hardware, including the ornate brass backplate on the front door.'

The walls have been given a fresh look with Farrow & Ball's Wevet. A striking new ceiling light from Jason Koharik and mirror from Oly Studio give the space a more contemporary flavour without losing the period charm.

The living room with full-height ceilings showcases a diverse art collection curated by local art expert Cris McCall. The same Farrow & Ball shade has been used to lighten the walls.

Vintage William Layman side tables provide the midcentury detailing here, alongside a custom deep blue Maharam Fabric sectional sofa, Hollywood at Home's Melrose Chairs, travertine coffee tables, and a large Royere-inspired daybed in Josef Frank Fabric from Svenskt Tenn.

The central kitchen has a smart new look that leans into the mid-century aesthetic, all the while giving it a contemporary twist. The dark wood cabinetry with black detailing is reminiscent of mid-century Scandinavian design.

With sliding doors for seamless indoor-outdoor living the new wooden kitchen revolves around an extra-large walnut island designed for cooking and entertaining. 'Warm honey oak floors, dark walnut cabinets, and black soapstone countertops complement new Wolf appliances and a custom copper hood crafted and installed by a local artisan,' adds Jaqui.

'The family room is bathed in rich port red (Book Room Red) from top to bottom and is undeniably the coziest space in the house,' says Jaqui. 'Featuring a sumptuous velvet wide rib corduroy sofa and a playfully upholstered ottoman, it serves as the perfect sanctuary to indulge in favorite films and TV binges.'

The designer chose sconces from Visual Comfort and a coffee table by Nickey Kehoe in Claremont Tree Of Life fabric.

Making use of one of the original layout's smaller service rooms adjacent to the kitchen, Jaqui and her team created a practical but very pretty laundry room. The thought being, if you're going to do household chores, make the most of the setting.

'We custom fabricated all new cabinets and countertops for the space but were able to repurpose original cabinet hardware previously installed elsewhere onsite,' Jaqui explains.

The wallpaper is the Jaipur design, by Antoinette Poisson.

Living in LA, it's just as important to nail your backyard ideas as it is to get your home's interior design on point. So for the perfect California indoor outdoor lifestyle, the living room's glass doors open to a backyard designed for entertaining, featuring a new lap pool by Bradly Gordon McClelland, vintage-inspired chaise lounges and bold umbrellas. Additionally, there's a central dining area with a new outdoor kitchen, and a distant lounge zone with a fire pit and colorful Marni Stools.

The spacious primary suite also offers lush backyard views. The room includes Lawson Fenning bedside tables, a custom upholstered bed in caramel velvet, and a vintage area rug from Lawrence of La Brea. Farrow & Ball's Stony Ground lightened the walls and ceiling.

On the face of it, including wallpaper in your nursery decorating schemes may seem a little unusual, or over sophisticated but a design like this one from Svenskt Tenn, featuring clover leaves, not only gives the scheme longevity at the child grows, but in the meantime provides an absorbing pattern to capture an infant's attention. The area rug is from Nordic Knots.

There's another beautiful leafy wallpaper design in the bathroom. WallShoppe's 'Pacifico Palm' design by Nathan Turner creates the perfect counterpoint to a modern vanity and wall tile combo, along with on-trend flooring from Concrete Collaborative.

In the bathroom and throughout the property, there's been a sensitive updating of this midcentury home, mindful of its original details but also of the fact that this belongs to a modern family with their modern lifestyle. It's the perfect balance.

Interior Design: Jaqui Seerman
Photography: Madeline Tolle

'When we first started at the house, it had a lot of exterior doors and a renovation from the early 2000s that did not match the 1930s charm of the house,' says Bess. 'We wanted to make decisions that respected the context and age of the home and help to bring it back to its roots while prioritizing color.'

Take the tour and discover how this home's new look balances original features and traditional farmhouse decor with bright and colorful interiors.

'We reworked some of the exterior entryways, and the house also had a lot of windows that drenched the interior space with light,' adds Bess Lovern. The beautiful bay window in the breakfast nook is a case in point, and the designer was keen to make the most of the natural light here by maintaining the window seat and table set-up. She also wanted to lean into an English cottage vibe, and we'll see this shape her textile and color choices elsewhere in the home.

'We wanted it to feel bright and fresh, and to keep the room mostly neutral to let the greens and orange pattern on the roman shades really shine. The lantern kept the space feeling of the time period while the Made Goods chairs added the fresh texture that the space needed,' she says.

Similarly, Bess's kitchen ideas were designed to maximize the ample daylight. 'The space was so bright, and we wanted to keep it feeling open, so we opted for Urban Electric flush mount lights. The Bertazonni oven was the real focal point contrasting with the taupe painted cabinets in Benjamin Moore Brandon Beige,' she says.

Smart, dark wood kitchen flooring, which makes a good contrast in a light kitchen, leads the eye to an arched doorway through to the dining room – an original 1930s detail leading to a room with a distinctly traditional look and feel. More on that below.

There's another big advantage in working with such a light space, as Bess explains: 'We were able to integrate some darker colors while still keeping the house feeling bright and airy. This created a cozy look while also feeling like a journey to walk through, since the spaces all had different personalities. We also mixed a lot of new furniture with antique pieces from the 1930s and earlier.'

Explaining her dining room ideas, Bess adds: 'We loved the idea of a mural from The Mural Source. We also wanted the room to be able to be closed off from the bar so we created hidden arched pocket doors. The table is burl wood from CB2.'

It's an entirely different story – and look – in the living room, where windows all round connect the room with its lush green setting.

'We opted for a very neutral color palette with added hints of wood and iron to keep the space feeling cozy. The sofas are from Crate & Barrel and the rug is from Stark Home,' says Bess. 'We added the ceiling medallion to keep the space feeling traditional.'

'We also restored the previously painted fireplace which was the real focal point of the room,' adds Bess. Another arched doorway connects the room with the entryway, and thus provides visitors with a glimpse into the welcoming entertaining space as they arrive.

The homeowner wanted a dedicated sun room with a home bar off of the dining room, connected via hidden arched pocket doors. 'We had a portrait of their dog commissioned as a gift, and this forms the centerpiece above the bar,' adds Bess.

We love the exquisitely shaped black soapstone backsplash, another thoughtful detail that makes this space ultra special.

This has got to be the ultimate in practical laundry spaces for pet lovers, catering to the fur babies' every whim!

'It was a really fun space to design,' says Bess. 'We integrated a dog wash, and a custom cat litterbox door, besides the usual washing machine and dryer. The hardware is by Rejuvenation.'

The owners wanted to add more square footage to their home, so designer Bess came up with the innovative idea to enclose an upstairs patio to turn it into an office.

'We decided to hide the office behind a pair of bookcase doors. We wanted this house to feel like a fun and unexpected journey,' says Bess.

Bess exposed the ceiling beams in the office to create extra height under the sloping roof.

'As we dug into the house I was really inspired by all the older construction materials,' she says. 'We uncovered, then restored and painted the original beadboard siding in here, which inspired a lot of choices. We used beadboard again in the laundry room and one of the bathrooms.

'We had a lot of fun with the color palette integrating yellows, reds, and browns with Farrow & Ball Selvedge as the base over walls and ceiling,' she adds. 'We wanted the space to feel masculine with leather and wood accents while also keeping true to the English cottage style of the house. Because the space was narrow we custom made the sofa and ottoman. The desk is from Noir and the light is by Ralph Lauren for Visual Comfort.'

Bess kept her ideas for the main bedroom simple but stylish, saying: 'We wanted the bedroom to remain neutral and calm.' Against soft cream walls, a plain upholstered headboard and cheerful red stripe bedding are all that's needed alongside a classic nightstand and lamp.

The guest room's color scheme and country fabrics showcase a traditional cottage look that Bess felt would work well here. 'We restored and stained the original wood siding and painted the ceiling in Benjamin Moore's Vale Mist.'

Powder room ideas look to more traditional style points, with a restored and reworked antique marble-topped dressing table finding new life as a vanity. House of Hackney's Plantasia wallcovering adds a further period touch, wrapping the wall in color and pattern.

Color and pattern perfectly sum up the new look throughout this property, as Bess Lovern transformed a dated home with fresh furnishings and decor to inject new life and a relaxed sense of farmhouse style.

Interior design: Bess Lovern Designs
Photography: Becca Lea

That's where interior designers Mollie Ranize and Kim Serani of Dmar Interiors stepped in, with a series of changes involving replacement flooring, new lighting solutions, new paneling and wall treatments, and adding not just one but two new staircases. Dmar Interiors founder Mollie show us around and explains how she went about adding architectural charm to the featureless space. Spoiler alert: textures, lighting, flooring, and wall treatments were key.

1. Highlight any valuable existing features

In a home otherwise devoid of character, the great room stood out with its huge double-height arched window but the existing layout and furnishings did little to make the most of it.

Interior designer Mollie seized the opportunity to give the room the lift it needed. 'We were excited to custom fabricate window treatments that extended from the floor all the way up to the two-story tall ceiling to draw your eye up and through the windows to the expansive backyard.'

2. Add personal touches to bring warmth to the space

'When taking on a new project. I always try to let the architecture lead. But in a situation like this, where there was no personality whatsoever, we were able to lean even more into the homeowner’s personal preferences.' says Mollie. 'They wanted the home to be modern but warm with glamorous moments throughout. It also had to be family friendly while still maintaining a sophisticated and luxe feeling that carried throughout the home.'

A selection of sophisticated textured upholstered pieces were selected for the great room, with a color palette that was applied in saturated ways in some areas, and lighter and brighter in others.

'This gave us a pleasant flow throughout the home with these little (or sometime big) moments that still all come together and connect,' adds Mollie.

3. Create drama and glamour with bold wall treatments

'We went bold and dramatic in the dining room, turning the only full drywalled wall into a focal point with multiple custom surface treatments,' says Mollie. Hand antiqued mirror panels add drama and glamour in a room that's used for entertaining. Either side of the mirror is black painted custom made wood slats, installed with slight spacing for depth and visual interest.

Creating an accent ceiling with wallpaper adds yet another dimension, with integrated lighting to highlight the effect. An oversized chandelier and new statement wall sconces complete the luxe look.

4. Make targeted improvements to existing furnishings

The existing cabinets were solid and high quality, and the layout worked well for the homeowners, but the cabinet doors were dated. Mollie's kitchen ideas were a series of targeted improvements, including replacing the extractor hood, painting the cabinets, and adding new quartz countertops, a patterned ceramic backsplash and new cabinetry hardware. By focusing on key elements and details in this way it's possible to make a big difference to the kitchen's overall look and give this important space much more personality.

5. Replace the kitchen island for an instant style upgrade

Even if you're not replacing the bulk of the kitchen cabinets, consider fitting a new kitchen island. This is often the central focus of the kitchen and so can really change up the look, as interior designer Mollie explains.

'The old kitchen island was not ideal,' she says. 'It contained a second sink that was unnecessary and was an outdated style that was hard to update. We completely removed the old island and had a new one custom built. This gave us the opportunity to add a more functional storage space and seating for four counter stools where there was previously only room for two.'

6. Consider new flooring to create a sense of flow

This corner of the family room and kitchen does double duty as the breakfast room, and with new dining chairs, pendants and window treatments, everything has its own zone and complements each other.

Even with distinct zones, Mollie feels it's important to create a sense of harmony and flow through the home. 'The great room had an interesting parquet floor, but it didn’t flow into the family room or adjoining spaces,' she says. 'We knew immediately that a key to the success of this house and this space was unifying the flooring, so we selected a beautiful mid-tone engineered white oak floor that added the perfect amount of warmth and movement.'

7. Look for simple upgrades to elevate a tired space

If you're lucky enough to have a home bar, even if it's not entirely to your taste, it's worth exploring simple fixes to give it a new look and inject an element of luxe, as Mollie did here. 'We left the existing bar cabinetry intact because it added a bit of a masculine touch,' she explains. 'But updated the bar with black quartz countertops, a backsplash featuring marble with brass inlay, new brass hardware and faucet, as well as three new pendants.'

It's not only home bars that can benefit from added sparkle and personality, you can apply the same approach in other parts of the home, too. Think about similar updates to a pantry, laundry room, mudroom or powder room.

8. Invest in a wow factor entrance and foyer

This luxurious entryway, foyer and staircase are full of personality and wow factor. Previously, however, it was a dark and dated space, as Mollie explains: 'The railing system was very ornate and felt heavy while the floor and stair treads were stone and felt cold. There were also several decorative columns that were purely ornamental but contributed to the space feeling cold and heavy,' she says.

It took a lot of imagination and some reconfiguring, but starting by removing all of the stone and columns, the design team streamlined the space to create a more elegant look.

'We wanted a show-stopping floor to highlight the generous square footage but we didn’t want something that has been seen over and over, so we created a custom marble tile pattern. We softened the walls by adding moulding and rebuilt the staircase using stained wood treads with classic white risers. The over scaled crystal chandelier was relocated from the great room for higher impact. Lastly, we had a clean-lined railing made to soften the grand staircase.'

9. Layer up textured neutrals for a calm bedroom sanctuary

It might be hidden away up on the top story of the house, but don't forget to update your bedroom ideas as you look to bring character to a home that's lacking in architectural details.

Here, Mollie explains how she continued the streamlining and modernization upstairs and into the primary bedroom. 'We started by removing multiple columns, replacing the flooring to a consistent engineered wood plank, replacing all light fixtures, and painting all walls and ceilings,' she says. 'We then layered in new furnishings to complement the more contemporary feel and softened everything with custom window treatments.'

The result? The perfect look for a relaxing bedroom sanctuary, with a sense of pared-back glamour and luxury to match the rest of the house.

Interior design: Dmar Interiors
Photography: Charlotte Lea Photography

It sounds like an easy task to achieve, but I have seen many examples of country decor in city settings that feel far too like a synthetic version of what you imagine country life to be like, they almost feel staged, an imitation rather than the real thing. Actually creating the bucolic feel in a home in a way that's effortless and authentic is, in fact, a bit of an art.

It's what the design team at Howark Design was briefed with for this London project. Create 'a relaxed home with the feeling of the country in the city.' Through thoughtfully layering colors and patterns, decorating with one-off vintage pieces, and not forcing this city home to be something it's not, the team achieved exactly that.

'Our client is a vibrant, young Belgian woman who is a keen equestrian,' explains James Arkoulis and Saskia Howard, the founders of Howark Design. 'She wanted a light, relaxed home with the feeling of the country in the city. She wanted to incorporate her family’s heirloom antiques. While the house has a touch of quintessentially English, they are an international couple who travel frequently and have family and friends across the globe. They love to entertain and have massive dinner parties.'

It's that 'touch of quintessentially English' that makes this home feel like the perfect balance between country and city. The interior design does have that welcoming country-esque feel to it, but it doesn't take the traditional tropes too far. There's a fun and freshness to the space in the bolder colors and mixing of patterns that feels like a nod to the modernity of the city.

'The bones of the home were great, but the client enlisted us to help her truly make it feel like her own and reflect her personality and lifestyle,' continues James Arkoulis. 'The home was generally pretty dark, so we worked to maximize the light exposure throughout by enlarging the door from the kitchen into the dining room. By doing this, it also helped the layout on the ground floor to feel more linked.'

'We also introduced a glazed partition between the front door and the sitting room to create separate spaces while allowing maximum light in. This meant that we could treat the entrance area separately and really make a statement upon entering the home. We added bold-coloured panelling and Victorian-style tiled flooring in a vibrant pattern. And in order to maximize the seating in the front room, we designed the sofa with angled sides to snugly fit into the bay window.'

The kitchen has an undeniably country feel to it. As with all country kitchens, it's filled with personality and charm. Nothing is too perfect and there's plenty on show to add intrigue and delight. It's effortless, all the pieces feel collected and not overly curated. Even the pantry is a thing of beauty that gives a real lived-in feel to the kitchen, like people actually love to cook and host in this space.

Like throughout many of the rooms, it's the colors in the kitchen that stop it from sliding too far into country charm. The deep red of the kitchen island, pantry storage, and range cooker, although still classic and traditional, grounds the warm neutral cabinetry, making the room feel more playful and interesting. The pop of pale lime green from the door's trim is so subtle you could almost miss it at first glance, but it's just enough to signal this is not a standard neutral kitchen that's playing it safe.

Saskia Howard explains, 'We used paired back tones that would work with the client’s classical family antiques that are prominently featured in the space. When it came to the green on the patio doors, we thought black metal would look too harsh, so we used a fresh green that married well with the view out to the garden.'

A pantry is a key element in country kitchens and was an addition to the space. Saskia and James explain that adding in the pantry when space was limited was one of the main challenges of the project. 'The client requested that we add a pantry in the kitchen and a bathroom under the stairs. There was limited space, so it was a bit of a jigsaw puzzle to make it work. But we were beyond thrilled with the end result.'

The red theme continues into the home office, as does the mix of old and new. 'The bold red study reflects the client's love of invigorating color while a family portrait looks on from over the reclaimed fireplace,' explains James.

The very traditional piece of artwork creates this really playful contrast with the red bookshelves. The bold coral might be competing for attention, but it prevents such a large, ornate frame from dominating the small room. As in every room, antiquity and charm are balanced with a fresh, more contemporary feel.

In the main bedroom, the colors are more muted than downstairs, but the vintage furniture and layers of pattern add all the interest. James explains, 'We kept the walls quite neutral with warm undertones, which allowed for the more vibrant furniture and accessories to shine.'

The mixing of patterns works in this space because of the different sizes of the prints, they sit in harmony rather than competing against one another. 'Taking into account the scale of a pattern is vital,' James adds. 'We use a lot of smaller-scale patterns to make sure it didn’t feel overwhelming, and the overall effect is more subtle.'

This whole project is a lesson in how bolder colors and layering prints needn't overwhelm a space. Bright reds, lime greens, dark blues, and mustard yellows all mix to create a palette that feels so livable these shades almost become neutrals. In some spaces, the play with color can be a reminder of the urban location despite the country feel, and yet in other rooms, like the bedroom, the colors do the opposite, and it's the palette that creates the rural feel.

For Allison, the interiors and fashion worlds are intrinsically linked: ‘There is something about how I approach a scheme that resembles the way I like to put together an outfit,’ she notes, adding, ‘I love to bring in something a bit bold.’

The interiors of this new-build home in New Jersey blend quiet sophistication with unexpected touches that elevate the spaces: bench seating clad in softly shimmering zellige tiles in the kitchen, for example, or the main bedroom’s arresting gold leaf and onyx chandelier, which resembles an exquisite cabochon-style bracelet. ‘I love sourcing lighting; I do treat it as the jewelry of the ensemble,’ Allison comments.

The homeowners, a young professional couple who were moving from New York to New Jersey to be closer to their respective families, came to Allison via the builder of the house. ‘At that point, the structure was still a shell, and none of the finishes had been selected; we were able to specify everything, from the flooring to the bathrooms,’ Allison explains.

For a property that is nowhere near the sea, the couple’s brief to Allison came as something of a surprise: ‘They wanted a beachy, coastal decor vibe,’ she recollects. ‘The husband had grown up near Cape Cod, and this was an aesthetic that resonated with him and his wife. I interpreted this with lots of textures and touches of greens and blues; the idea was to give the interiors an organic, tactile quality.’

Allison has introduced a palette of natural materials that helps soften the edges of the clean-lined architecture. Pale oak flooring is a unifying feature that runs throughout the open-plan living spaces as well as the five bedrooms, and the same timber was used for the cupboard fronts of the kitchen island and drinks cabinet. Reclaimed oak beams were introduced to bring character to the dining room, while the coffered ceiling in the main bedroom was clad with reclaimed oak shiplap.

Natural stones, including limestone, marble, and travertine, add to the selection of beautiful materials: in the dining room, the chimney breast was clad in limestone to bring a rugged quality to the scheme, while worktops and splashbacks in Chantilly quartzite lend subtle pattern to the kitchen.

Joinery in other areas of the house was also treated to natural stone tops, as well as pleasing hardware: ‘I like to add that extra zhuzh, even if it’s storage in the mudroom,’ Allison remarks.

The kitchen and sitting room are one large space, so Allison helped define the two areas with a vast corner sofa in pale slipcovers. ‘Because the owners don’t have children, we felt able to select quite light pieces,’ says Allison, pointing out an armchair in an off-white bouclé and a bespoke striped rug in cream and oatmeal tones.

The fireplace and flanking window seats were clad in fluted plaster, while the wall lights are alabaster: ‘They give a lovely muted glow at night,’ she approves. In contrast to the pale tones of the living space, the walls of the adjoining dining room are a near-black bronze hue – a lovely foil to more statement lighting – while the office was painted a deep green and teamed with dark wallpaper in a highly textural finish.

‘I like using wallpaper to add another layer of texture,’ recounts Alison, who selected a grasscloth for the main bedroom in an abstract print. ‘We went for lots of textures in this room to bring in that sense of a coastal landscape.’

The interiors may be complete, but Allison is already busying herself with the exterior spaces. ‘The house has quite a generous plot and so phase two of this project entails an outdoor kitchen and patio as well as a pool and a pool house,’ she explains, adding, ‘We want the outside spaces to feel just as considered as the interiors.’

Meet the designer

Allison Handler shares her style inspiration

What was the biggest indulgence?

The main bathroom, with its beautiful Calacatta Gold marble, bespoke vanity, and high-end sanitaryware.

The greatest success?

Stepping out of our comfort zone to achieve this organic coastal vibe.

What one small change had a huge impact?

Opting to tile the bench area in the kitchen. It turned it into such a beautiful seating space.

What's inspiring you currently?

Warm neutral colors, texture, and modern clean lines.

Describe your style in three words.

Modern, organic, bold.

An object you'd never part with?

My vintage Pierre Jeanneret chairs. I love the character they bring to any room I put them in.

Whose your design hero?

Ali Budd’s unique style is a constant source of inspiration.

Do you have a favorite building?

Grand Central Terminal – the celestial ceiling is awe-inspiring.

The new owners of this 9th Street apartment in Greenwich Village were keen to keep that history alive with their house design but were also looking to simplify the look and create a space more compatible with modern-day living.

Interior designer Dan Mazzarini, founder and creative director of BHDM Design and Archive, and his partner Andy Grover took over the apartment in January 2021. 'We really wanted to pay homage to the building's rich history by keeping some of its original treasures, such as the charming mantle, the classic radiators, and the intricate cove ceiling plaster,' says Dan. 'At the same time, we aimed to infuse our own personal touch and style into the space.'

Take the tour to find out how Dan reached the perfect compromise of old meets new with his pared-back traditional style.

'Walking into the apartment, we wanted to home to feel very ‘us',' says Dan. In the entryway, visitors are greeted by a curated collection of Dan and Andy's favorite artwork. The gallery wall makes a smart backdrop for a vintage Biedermeier dresser that itself sets the tone for the transitional design scheme Dan has put together for the whole apartment.

'The walls are painted with my favorite Benjamin Moore Intense White and trimmed with Chantilly Lace, while the doors are finished in a glossy black by Fine Paints of Europe.

'The original space was divided into small, separate rooms that we didn’t need,' says Dan. 'We gutted the entire space and got rid of a bedroom to open it up for a more casual living and dining setting.' Post-renovation, his living room ideas are tailored, yet at the same time relaxed and welcoming.

Centered around the original 1920s fireplace and its updated Calacatta Arabescato marble hearth are a pair of vintage bouclé chairs and burl wood side tables. Deep wood tones and warm accents mix with earthy brown and rusty orange accent pillows and throws. 'We were determined to go without a TV in the middle of the room,' adds Dan. 'So we customized a mahogany credenza to anchor the space, incorporating a hidden TV lift cabinet to keep it out of sight.'

To complement the building’s historic charm, Dan custom-designed the living room’s warm gray, legionella chenille fabric sofa, and coffee table with a three-inch lucite top to create a light and clean atmosphere.

Dan's custom shelving along the back wall will inspire anyone looking for smart living room storage ideas, 'I designed a white, open bookshelf with a Calacatta Arabescato marble base shelf and metal mesh enclosed bottom cabinets,' he says.

Dan talked about simplifying the apartment's layout, and creating an open floor plan that was more conducive to contemporary living and entertaining. His dining room ideas really see that through. It's the ideal setting for entertaining, with easy access to the kitchen and living room. It's here that you also can appreciate the newly fitted white oak flooring, which runs through the whole space.

'I custom-designed a stately vintage French rose wood dining table to anchor the space. The slim profile, tubular metal mid-century modern chairs were sourced from eBay and re-upholstered with a soft beige calf hide,' says Dan. 'The Serge Mouille Three Arm Multi-Light Pendant is one of my favorite pieces, and has followed me into three homes thus far.'

A Josh Greene for Dowel black pedestal bust, an impulse purchase from Chairish, sits in the corner and draws attention in the light-filled room.

Just beyond the dining room, is an intimate galley kitchen. Many people find this a challenging arrangement but this is one of the best galley kitchen layouts we've seen, and it's certainly one of the most stylish.

Dan is delighted with his finished kitchen design. 'The high-gloss mahogany cabinets are a really unique touch that I still swoon over every day. And although it’s a smaller space, the kitchen was designed to incorporate all of the essentials – kind of like a luxe hotel suite,' he says.

The two-tone panel front custom kitchen cabinets are made of mahogany wood, in a dark brown, lacquered alcove, topped with a heavily veined extended Calacatta Arabescato marble countertop and backsplash. The upper cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Collingwood.

A sleek nickel gooseneck Waterworks faucet and large Rejuvenation door pulls provide the luxurious finishing touches.

The idea of a luxe hotel design scheme continues into the primary bedroom, where the look is tailored and sleek but still cozy. Dan custom-designed the black cerused oak canopy bed frame and the two identical built-in custom closets that flank the window.

'From a Barbara Barry desk with a glass top you can look out to the Empire State Building. It's a dreamy work-from-home setup,' adds Dan.

A light gray Innovations Agave wallpaper wraps the room with grasscloth texture, giving it a tactile contemporary twist and creating a relaxing bedroom setting.

'We also brought in the earthy oranges from the living room, with the bed dressed with tobacco leather pillows and a rich brown, woven blanket,' the designer adds.

Interior design: Dan Mazzarini, BHDM Design
Photography: Adam Kane Macchia

The 1950s property was oriented to the lake but until recently the rooms on the lakefront had walls, small windows, and solid doors. The dramatic new house design has opened up the vista and rebalanced the home by making a more imposing entrance and approach from the driveway.

Nicole Roe, of R Nickson Interiors oversaw the transformation, and explains that throughout the redesign there was another guiding principle at play: a sense of whimsy.

'The family was drawn to a sense of whimsy, which became the guiding inspiration for the home's interior style,' says interior designer Nicole. 'While rooted in more traditional lines and details, we infused each space with unexpected elements of fun and playfulness.'

In the eat-in kitchen, that sense of fun comes with a series of quirky portraits of the British royals, and a custom bench complete with a family-friendly performance fabric cover. This previously dark corner of the house now enjoys full-length windows and a view, with easy access to the backyard and shore.

'Another standout feature is the thoughtful use of gold accents, which the client adored,' says Nicole. Gold plays a starring role in the kitchen ideas, where a polished brass extractor hood from Monogram echoes the chandelier from Hudson Valley and the hardware.

'Gold was integrated into all the light fixtures and select accent furniture pieces, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to the whimsical design,' adds Nicole. 'These golden details provided a warm, luxurious glow that elevated the home's overall aesthetic and tied the spaces together beautifully.'

But it's the glamorous dining room ideas that really showcase that guiding principle of whimsy. Schumacher's Madame De Pompadour mural wallcovering creates a stunning backdrop for formal entertaining, with a dining table from Alice Lane and chairs from Ballard Design.

'One of my favorite design elements in this project is the abundance of wallpaper layered throughout the home,' adds Nicole. 'We incorporated wallpaper into ceilings, murals, and both small and large spaces, ensuring each application flowed seamlessly and told a cohesive, beautiful story. The variety and placement of wallpaper added so much personality and dimension to the home, making it feel truly unique.'

The dining room mural frames an arched doorway, which references the home's traditional architecture but brings it up to date since it allows sightlines to the foyer and living room for a more contemporary open-plan look.

'The wife’s love of color, particularly nuanced and sophisticated shades of pink and blue, played a significant role in shaping the design,' says Nicole. 'These hues became a consistent theme, appearing in wallpapers, cabinetry, paint, and fabrics throughout the home.'

Another key consideration in Nicole's designs for this home was to create a space that felt elevated but was practical for a family with young children and dogs. Living room ideas are quiet and sophisticated, but are geared for family life.

'We prioritized performance fabrics, durable finishes, and highly functional spaces, including well-designed drop zones, areas for family meals, and comfortable spaces for quality time,' explains Nicole. 'These thoughtful choices allowed us to marry sophistication with practicality, ensuring the home could be both beautiful and livable for this active family.'

The reworked interiors created space for a small home bar, open to the entryway and ready to offer a warm welcome to the family's guests. Another Schumacher wallcovering, Mercurio, makes a statement used as a ceiling paper, with the brand's Heraldic fabric used for pillows to update a pair of swivel chairs.

Nicole's new entryway ideas were a game-changer since the approach to the house had been neglected previously. A statement tiled floor and glimmering star ceiling paper elevate the look.

'The home was originally designed with its front facade oriented toward the lake and the rear of the home facing the driveway,' explains Nicole. 'We focused on reimagining the actual front entrance to create a more welcoming and grand presence, ensuring the home felt approachable and balanced from all perspectives.'

The plan for the guest bedroom was to embrace the origins of the house, creating a traditional look with a custom-made half-tester bed and drapes from Schumacher. The room's fresh color palette and walls painted in Sherwin Williams' Aquitaine meanwhile add a contemporary twist. A rug from Locust Lane brings in pastel shades to continue the flow from the other spaces in the home.

Bathroom ideas in the primary bathroom were about reworking the layout to create a spacious, relaxing sanctuary made up of separate zones. The Taft tub from Randolph Morris is positioned in an alcove, with the vanity painted in Sherwin Williams French Moire and Schumacher's 1975 wallpaper in soft blue used for the powder room walls.

It's not just the interiors that benefited from a new look under Nicole's expert guidance. 'The outdoor spaces were incredibly important to this project, as they helped establish the home’s welcoming and cohesive aesthetic,' the designer explains.

The exterior paint was updated in a creamy white with soft blue and taupe accents, creating a timeless and harmonious palette.

'Thoughtful landscaping brought life and vibrancy to the property,' says Nicole. 'The most significant transformation, however, was the front stoop, which was rebuilt into a more prominent and inviting entryway.'

Interior design: Nicole Roe of R Nickson Interiors
Photography: Michael Scott

Irish-born Katie Harbison is based in New York but has lived in London and Europe and cherishes the balance of designing both Stateside and UK homes. ‘Much of my background is in the heritage and listed properties that London has to offer and are what I love and resonate with. The scale and the scope of US properties are significantly different, so it’s the best of both worlds,’ she explains.

Katie’s ethos is working within the parameters of a house’s architecture and ensuring that the interiors feel a part of it or an extension of it. ‘The grandeur and the architecture of this home is what I wanted to play into, still embracing and enhancing those traditional features while making it more homely and adaptable,’ she says.

She intended to honor yet modernize the enclosed nature of each space, and create a consistent, harmonious flow from room to room. A full gut renovation was therefore undertaken with a skylight added in the kitchen-diner and glazing replaced in the garden room.

The Grade II listing meant there were challenges. The clients were originally keen on adding period features, like panel molding, but they weren't able to do this. There were difficulties also with the main bathroom. Poorly laid out, there was a central step and double swing doors between it and the bedroom that swung outwards.

Fortunately, planning permission was gained to change them to pocket doors and the space was reconfigured. The existing moldings, skirting boards, and cornices were cast and new replicas were made for areas that were past restoration to keep the historic bones of the property throughout.

Previously, the property had some modern installations that were not original, so Katie replaced these with fixtures more appropriate to the original architecture. The home was also made more ergonomic for the family; ‘It pays homage to the period while making it suitable for a modern-day family,’ Katie explains.

Aesthetically, the design narrative is a balance of old and new, embracing transitional design. For Katie, and agreed on by the owners, Limewash was the obvious choice for the walls. ‘I love the texture you get from limewash – it’s not a flat wall and it brings a lot of warmth to spaces,’ she says.

‘In most of the rooms, a neutral color scheme was chosen but it brings texture and depth so that there’s a cohesive thread in the home.’ The nuanced backdrop gave rise to a serene, seductive aesthetic.

In the daughter’s nursery, a different treatment was used, perlata, which is textural but also has a subtle shimmer that adds energy. Katie introduced more color and playful elements in the family den, cloakroom, and the study. ‘The primary spaces remain more calm and neutral. Then I like to bring in pockets of fun,’ she says.

Katie has enhanced the intrinsic character of the home by decorating with vintage items, often sourced from Paris antiques markets. ‘I was aiming for a balance between vintage and made-to-order contemporary pieces. I love that juxtaposition between old meets new. I love the character and the charm. The stories you get from the vintage pieces are a lot more interesting.’

Softness is introduced with textured natural materials. Katie has a penchant for linen and hemp, which appear again and again throughout the interior, along with mohair and cotton velvet. ‘Typically linen would be my go-to, and then we brought in pops of heavier fabrics for something a little bit more luxurious.’

Katie describes the interior narrative as transitional, taking traditional elements but making the scheme a little more contemporary. Nowhere is that more apparent than in Katie’s favorite room, the sitting room.

Here, an elegant marble fireplace with reclaimed bricks that Katie spent months sourcing rubs shoulders with a contemporary curved sofa that was chosen to improve the ergonomics of the space. ‘We wanted this room to be elevated, but still liveable,’ says Katie. ‘When you’re in that space, it feels very calm.’

5 ways to add beautiful texture to walls

Designer Katie Harbison talks interesting finishes

1. My favorite is plaster. I love it for its versatility. It allows you to choose the level of texture you want to achieve – whether bold, dramatic brushstrokes with a heavy and grainy finish or a more refined, subtle look.

2. I love to add upholstery to walls, particularly in areas like media rooms. It brings a sense of warmth and coziness while making a bold design statement.

3. Tadelakt is one of my go-tos for wet areas. It comes in a wide range of colors and adds an incredible depth and richness to walls with its natural, polished finish.

4. I often incorporate wallpaper into smaller spaces like cloakrooms or playful settings such as kids’ bedrooms. I typically opt for bold prints or textured materials like grasscloth. These not only deliver warmth and visual intrigue, but also create a striking focal point.

5. We are collaborating with an artist to create a hand-painted mural in a child’s bedroom. This will incorporate meaningful references, making it a truly unique feature. The result will be a whimsical and imaginative focal point, adding charm and character.

Take the tour, and find out how the home's new look blends 1940s heritage with contemporary Californian style.

'We were immediately charmed by the house. Old towering trees were overgrown and touching the roof rafters with white stucco details that made you feel like you were in a different time and far away from the city with a huge backyard,' says OSKLO's Michael Martin. 'We wanted to reconstruct the house but at the same time maintain its look and pedigree. Original doors were kept, molding copied, brickwork preserved and many original details duplicated and refurbished.'

Keen to preserve and honor the original 1940s architectural details, the designer's living room ideas incorporated the typically colonial arched doorway and added an Oliver Gustav sofa, antique side chairs in washed linen, a rug by Lawrence of La Brea, and a Japanese coffee table. The fireplace has been updated with a marble surround referencing the shape and style of the period.

Kitchen ideas began with the custom white oak cabinetry, with base units, wall cabinets and floor-to-ceiling cupboards arranged around the room's perimeter. The kitchen cabinets channel OSKLO'S signature Scandi style – smart, unfussy and beautifully designed.

At the heart of the new kitchen layout is a Calacatta Viola marble-wrapped island, bringing a slice of Beverly Hills glamour to the otherwise minimalist space. Introducing patina with natural materials, such as the marble countertops and herringbone oak floor, creates a subtly layered effect. The new oak flooring runs across the whole property.

The focus of the new dining room scheme is not the room itself but the beautiful view of the landscaped garden and Beverly Hills views beyond. What better setting for entertaining – and for informal meals – than this corner space with windows on two sides and access to the new patio?

Studio OSKLO dining chairs in natural shearling, and a custom Studio OSKLO dining table in Arrabesco Orobico Grigio marble add a contemporary style note that's still in keeping with the 1940s origins.

The home's white exterior, exaggerated lines and long facade, along with a huge backyard and stunning natural views give it a European vibe.

The property was originally designed in 1940 by Georgius Y. Cannon, a protégé of the renowned Californian architect Wallace Neff. The house bears the hallmark Spanish colonial touches that had made Neff famous across the Sunshine State.

The idyllic setting has been enhanced with steps down to a new oval pool and poolside studio, and its lush gardens were rejuvenated as part of the property's recent renovation.

'We researched classic Beverly Hills homes in the 1940s including Wallace Neff and Paul Williams for inspiration. From colors to window details and molding choices, we really felt like the past offered most of our architectural answers,' says Michael Martin. 'As far as interiors, we wanted a more gentle European country vibe with select accents of Japanese and primitive accessories choices.'

Subtle wall paneling behind the bedhead, and a selection of Studio OSKLO pieces create the desired look for the main bedroom, with a Pavilion King bed and nightstands in walnut. The rug is by Lawrence of La Brea.

Meanwhile in the guest bedroom, a design classic Gio Point writing desk with bentwood chair sets the tone with a Ralph Lauren bed in pewter velvet and custom Studio OSKLO nightstands in walnut. These details have been carefully curated to fit the home's architectural style, with a nostalgic reference to 1940s silhouettes, materials and colours.

'We never stray far from the lighter colors of the Pantone chart, sticking to classic variations of white but then adding a few darker tones here and there that lend a moodier feel and pop of color,' says Michael. 'Drapery is more of a natural tone, using washed hemp instead of linen to bring in more of an earthy feel.'

This Spanish revival home contains some striking original features but surely the most remarkable is this bathroom. Built into the curved tower section at the back of the house, it makes use of the high vaulted ceiling to create a dramatic tent-like effect.

There's plenty of inspiration here for anyone considering marble bathroom ideas to add glamour and luxury. Opposite the freestanding bath, a solid and spacious marble-clad shower enclosure and vanity unit elevate the look.

Architecture and interior design: OSKLO
Photography: Sam Frost

But appearances can be deceptive and just like New Yorker Bari, who had to grow her practice Blank State Studio from the ground up when she relocated to the UK a decade ago, this rural bolthole required intensive nurturing before it could thrive.

The farmhouse was a lockdown purchase intended to be a peaceful escape from the city for the owners. ‘They love to hunker down but they also enjoy hosting guests, so the house had to work hard while delivering a sense of retreat,’ says Bari.

For the 19th-century stone building to meet those demands gracefully, the interior designer needed to revisit its bones. ‘When I became involved, there was planning permission for a contemporary extension at the rear,’ she says. ‘We scrapped that design, opting instead for a more traditional addition that ran the width of the house, with three sets of double doors leading out into the walled garden.'

Exposed joists and reclaimed beams married it seamlessly to the existing so that nothing jars the eye.’ So comprehensive was this thoughtful approach that new and old are virtually indistinguishable from one another – a mastering of transitional style is achieved.

In the hallway, chequerboard flooring sourced from an artisan in the south of France has been produced with deliberate color and shape imperfections, while the cobbled stone floor in the boot room was ‘inspired by the elegant but well-trodden historic streets you see in European cities’.

Visitors would be hard-pressed to tell that the hallway was once a smaller, asymmetrical space that, according to Bari, didn’t intuitively lead anywhere in particular. The designer centralized it by moving the front door and adding a bay window at one side to complement the original on the other.

‘We wanted to create a natural sense of grandeur and architectural integrity,’ she says. The designer also added a sweeping curve to the bottom of the staircase, a shape that’s echoed in the voluptuous rattan pendant adjacent. ‘Now you can see uninterrupted from front to back and there’s intention to the design.’

Key to this home is its quiet homage to craftsmanship – whether through vintage decor or the use of contemporary skills to either produce new pieces or breathe fresh life into old. In the kitchen diner, a French dresser has been skilfully stripped down and ebonized, its panels replaced by horticulturalist glass – complete with air bubbles – in order to house the owners’ treasured selection of ceramics.

A modular 1960s sofa found in Paris has been carefully reupholstered and a vintage farmhouse table expertly limewashed. ‘It was important to use materials that felt true to the age of the house,’ says Bari.

Alongside a host of quiet materials, from slubby linens to clay-finished walls, there are moments of drama and verve, most notably in the farmhouse’s bathrooms, with their confident use of marble and brass. ‘People can be a little wary of using richly veined stone,’ says Bari, ‘but marble is instantly elevating, even in the smallest of spaces.’

The owners were keen on generous showers that would be easy for their parents to access. The result is that more than a third of the space in each bathroom is taken up with expansive shower enclosures that add instant wow factor.

‘We used marble with deep plums, greens and golds running through and opted for stained-oak vanities to balance out the drama,’ says Bari. ‘The living brass tapware will patina over time, along with everything else.’ That process is already well underway, helped along by classic English touches such as the addition of William Morris wallpaper and an unashamedly retro tiled pantry.

‘New York, where I’m originally from, is a vertical city; it’s all about glass,’ reflects Bari. ‘But here, there’s more opportunity to restore and be less contrived, which is something I lean into.’ It’s an approach that looks set to serve this interior designer well in her British-based years to come.

5 Rules of Creating Lived in Interiors

Bari Jerauld shares her design advice

1. Try to source vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces to add interest to a space.

2. Play with texture; I personally love natural materials and I think a beautiful linen works in harmony with character oak, which then can be balanced with natural stone.

3. Quality materials, from marble to natural brass, elevate any scheme.

4. Use a calm palette for walls, then layer in color through artwork, furnishings and accessories.

5. Add architectural details that are true to a property by researching what would have been there from the start. Otherwise the end result can feel too contrived.

‘The clients had owned their much-loved home for 20 years but wanted to change it to today’s way of living and make it feel more cozy,’ explains Sophie Eadie, co-founder with Fi Crole, of interior design studio Eadie & Crole, who were commissioned to inject this house design with a new lease of life and transform it into a welcoming home brimming with character.

Sophie continues, ‘Apart from a side kitchen extension, the owners hadn’t touched the place in more than 20 years.’ Additional storage ideas were essential and the designers swathed the walls with paneling ‘that you can hide cupboards in,’ says Fi. ‘We made the house somewhere that the homeowners could use properly as there were so many areas that they weren’t utilizing. Every square centimeter is now used.’

In the main bedroom, for instance, bespoke wardrobes conceal a TV so the clients can watch it in bed. ‘The doors fold back fully, and then we styled up the space so that you’re looking at books when the doors are open,’ says Sophie.

Upstairs in the main suite, extra bedroom storage was provided under the bed, which lifts, and in the ottoman at the end of the bed. Changes to the layout were a prerequisite. There were two underused spaces in the house that the clients wanted to maximize – the rear of the double reception room, plus an upstairs second back bedroom that was mainly used for storage.

The house had a small half-landing bathroom and the solution was to transform the second back bedroom into a much-needed en suite for the main bedroom. An arch now frames the bath, with cupboards on either side, while vanity mirrors above the double console basin open to reveal storage behind.

The rear reception downstairs was transformed into a dining space with a generous banquette seat and table tucked into a corner, ensuring the area isn’t cluttered with chairs while providing an abundance of seating. ’We’re real banquette people,’ explains Fi.

Elegant glazed cabinets flank the fireplace and provide plentiful storage. In addition, the kitchen became a multifunctional space. Eadie & Crole altered the layout, with a small breakfast nook located beside the window to provide a handy spot for coffee, while a bespoke desk area offers a work-from-home space.

‘It was touch and go whether we could fit the breakfast nook in but actually it works really well. Sometimes when you have a tight space, one or two large pieces work better than lots of little things.

We have a large island and the nook, and now the kitchen functions at its capacity,’ says Fi. Soft colors infuse the interior, balanced by playful touches. ‘We knew our client wanted a home that was welcoming but had the wow factor so we installed a yellow runner up the stairs, which brings surprise and energy,’ says Sophie.

‘We then introduced a nod to yellow in most of the rooms.’ In the kitchen, for instance, the interior of the breakfast bar cupboards are painted yellow. And pops of yellow appear on the editor’s chairs in the sitting room and on the cushions. ‘It adds a sense of fun,’ says Fi.

Soft tones of pinks and terracottas, as well as yellow, are intermingled with slightly brighter pinks and greens for a playful feel. Comfort was high on the clients’ wish list and Eadie & Crole answered this with an indulgent and comfortable wool sofa in the sitting room and a profusion of seating including a practical window seat made with outdoor fabric so that there’s no fear of the fabric fading, plus a club fender and a pair of editor’s chairs.

‘We’ve designed the scheme so that in a small space, a lot of people can sit down,’ says Fi. The editor’s chairs showcase cheerful fabric. ‘That was our hook point and was where our color came from. We didn’t want the scheme to be too traditional, and then everything started working from around the fun fabric.’

The clients’ desire was for Eadie & Crole to think very practically and for longevity as well, and this elegant and functional interior is destined to be around for a long time to come.

Q&A with Eadie & Crole

The designers share their style inspiration

What was the biggest indulgence?

Designing the en-suite main bathroom with both a shower and built-in bath with the curved ceiling, and paneled walls with hidden cupboards either side for optimum storage.

What one small change had a huge impact?

Transforming the back area of the reception room into the dining room with banquette seating and good lighting. It has changed from a dark, never-used space to a light, inviting area that is used all the time.

Your go-to color?

Soft tones of pinks, terracottas, yellows and greens.

How does home make you feel?

No matter who you are or where you are, instinct tells you to go home – a place to love, live and relax.

Finish the sentence, 'We know we're creatives because...'

Our lives entwine around all things beautiful – from interiors, art, fashion, gardens and travel.

Gemma, founder and creative director of Balance Interior Design, lives here with husband Mark and their children Matilda and George. After 17 years in London, they decided to make the move to the country a few years back. ‘We fell in love with the undulating, rural landscape and the local architecture, with its creamy-coloured Bath stone.

'We wanted a stronger connection with nature, more space for family living and to give the children a slower pace of life,’ recalls Gemma. They came to this farmhouse, having looked at several Georgian rectories. ‘This had better lateral space for a family and felt a bit less grand and more in keeping with our relaxed lifestyle.’

Back then, in 2022, it was dark and full of inappropriate finishes: 90s mosaic tiles, sparkly worktops and lots of stud-walled en suites with dubious lino floors. The house had evolved over several hundred years, fanning out in all directions from the original farmworker’s cottage – swallowing up the adjoining cowshed and hayloft along the way.

With plenty of experience, Gemma sorted the renovation work quickly and efficiently, finding an architect to navigate the planning stage for this Grade II-listed house, while a contractor waited in the wings to get started.

The changes were relatively simple but effective; moving the kitchen from a smaller room into a larger, lighter space – once the cowshed – opening onto the dining room, where Gemma added a large panoramic window, flooding the space with natural light and letting in views of the garden and surrounding countryside.

In the same way, Gemma opened up the double-height space over the central hall into the eaves above, with heritage skylights allowing light to drench the once-gloomy heart of the farmhouse.

Upstairs, a rejig of the layout gave the couple a main suite with a dressing room and generously-sized bathroom, as well as the children’s bedrooms and bathroom.

At the other end of the house, a guest suite features two further bedrooms and a versatile cinema snug, where the children love to spend time. ‘What I’ve tried to do throughout the house is to ensure that all the rooms are useful in everyday life, not just occasionally’.

Gemma wanted to keep the material palette simple and restrained. Finishes in the more rustic kitchen and dining areas include sawn, white-oak floors. ‘They’re beautifully textural, rather than being smooth and perfect. I would have liked an organic, travertine stone for the kitchen worktops but it’s not a suitable material, so I opted for a ceramic with the same look.’

Gemma designed the kitchen cabinets and had them made by local craftspeople – an approach that runs through the whole project – opting for clean-lined joinery, which creates a visual contrast with the earthier finishes in the room.

Elsewhere, the material mix includes greenish-hued flagstones, reclaimed pine floors stained a rich, dark chocolate tone, and lots of tactile, grainy linens. The subtle room color ideas feature neutrals, from pale stone to richer grey-browns, via khaki, olive and sage.

Beyond the aesthetics though, the key to this house’s success is an underpinning of practicality, with carefully considered storage ideas in hard-working rooms like the pantry and dressing room, making it easy to keep the whole house looking perfect so that the focus is on Gemma’s edit of beautiful art and objects.

‘If you don’t have somewhere for all the stuff of real life, you can’t achieve that relaxing, pared-back look,’ advises Gemma. ‘My mind is quite chaotic at times and so is family life, so I need that sense of serenity, with everything in its own place – as an antidote. That way I can enjoy the atmosphere we’ve created here, one of calmness and connection to nature.’

Q&A with Gemma Tucker

The designer shares her style inspiration

What was the biggest indulgence?

The Fred Rigby desk – it’s my dream desk. I love the deep, dark, ebonised-oak finish and the juxtaposition between the geometric form of the legs and the organic pebble shape of the top. The whole piece feels beautifully considered.

Do you have a go-to design detail?

Layered lighting. Creating the right mix of good lighting is one of the most impactful things you can do, bringing a sense of atmosphere and hominess to spaces.

What's inspiring you at the moment?

My main sources are nature, travel, books, and art galleries.

How does home make you feel?

Like myself. Our home feels relaxed, calm and joyful. It suits my family’s lifestyle perfectly – there is a place for everything and the mood can be adjusted to the occasion.

Finish the sentence, 'I know I'm a creative because...'

When I see anything beautiful – whether I’m on a walk or in a gallery – I can’t help but translate the colours and forms into my work.

Reveal a secret address we should know?

Among the Pines – a gallery in Bath with a beautifully curated selection of art

‘In fact, it was the small rooms of this apartment that drew me to it. It gave me the opportunity to fully flex my creative muscles, and the result is something quite special.’

The property under discussion is in Potts Point, a desirable Sydney neighborhood known locally, because of its European feel, as the ‘Paris End’. Housed in a contemporary block, neither the building nor its interior was remarkable. ‘But there were decent bones and it was in a ten-out-of-ten location,’ says Tamsin.

Tamsin goes on to explain, ‘I gutted it, so really it can be considered as entirely new.’ The brief wasn’t strict, but Tamsin’s client, a young doctor, was seeking comfort and an escape from a busy working life.

‘I wanted the redesign to transport, seclude, and immerse; for it to have a degree of intensity and visual nourishment for the owner,’ she says. ‘My client also loves cooking, so the kitchen ideas needed sophisticated functions and more consideration than most, and I think it has become one of the salient features.’

Known for her flair for fusing pieces from across periods and continents to create spaces that are at once beautiful and liveable, Tamsin’s projects conjure a sense of unapologetic luxury and effortless style.

For this scheme, she drew inspiration from the sumptuously embellished decoration seen in European hotels of the early 1900s. ‘I love the Continental approach, where every aspect is considered and enriched with detail and intensity. The outcome steeps the owner in comfort.’

Old-world elegance was to be the overriding theme, but first, the fitting of steel-framed doors and windows and the enlarging of interior openings between rooms was required to extinguish any hint of the mundane former build.

Now luxuriant, eclectic, and with a faintly unhinged sort of refinement, there are nods throughout to modernism, brutalism, and art deco. ’The mix is a heady one,’ she says. ‘I had Vienna and Paris in mind, but also Milanese modernism. I think the resulting dialogue is complex but strangely harmonious.’

Vintage furnishings from Tamsin’s Sydney showroom were drafted in to decorate the home. Her favorites include a 1980s green ribbon baroque chair by Anacleto Spazzapan: ‘It adds the perfect degree of lunacy. It shocks the room to attention.’ Then there is the 1950s Venetian pendant that dominates in the kitchen: ‘This is peak Venetian glass-craft and utterly extravagant,’ she says.

But it’s the built-in bespoke joinery that pleases her most. ‘Not furniture per se, but I love the living room joinery, particularly the fireplace. It has such heft and sculptural strength that forces its way in against all the finery.’

Luxurious materials feature throughout and Tamsin’s creativity when decorating with marble, in particular, is extraordinary. It proliferates across the living spaces, as does velvet used on seating in the sitting room and media room. ‘Texture and layering with glass, sculpted timber, velvet, stone, mirror - there is a good sort of calamity that makes you believe you won’t stop finding something new in it all,’ she says.

‘There is plenty of soft versus hard, too, which I love. The color story, however, is saturated but mild - nothing vivid, so it is ultimately calming.’ Small spaces, according to Tamsin, don’t need prescriptive solutions. ‘I don’t mind the sensation of a “full” room and the appeal that has, like settling in at a little bar or cafe.

Having said that, mirrors naturally add a few extra dimensions. That, and ensuring some of the antique pieces are designed to fit an apartment.’ Tamsin’s schemes are underpinned by the meticulous planning of proportion, form, color and texture.

‘For me, designing apartment interiors is an opportunity to create something rich and nourishing in its intimacy, and to do that you need to not fear the scale of it, and push a lot into it.’ No pared-back neutrals to be found here, no minimalist, clutter-free haven. This jewel box of a home is about maximalism, writ large… in a small but extremely special space.

Q&A with designer Tamsin Johnson

The designer shares her style inspiration

BIGGEST INDULGENCE

Holidays in very, very nice places. Let’s call it research.

YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS

Perennial, enriched, fresh.

GO-TO COLOR

Hmmmm… this changes too much.

DESIGN HEROES

Axel Vervoordt, Adolf Loos, David Hicks… too many.

FAVORITE PIECE OF ARCHITECTURE

Maison de Verre, Paris. I think.

LAST THING YOU BOUGHT FOR YOUR OWN HOME

A parchment corner cabinet. Absolutely stunning and pure.

HOME GADGET YOU WOULDN’T BE WITHOUT

A phone charger.

SECRET ADDRESS

Tamsin Johnson Showroom on Victoria Street in Paddington, Sydney. Come say hello!

'When you're in this apartment, it feels like you’re in a cozy cottage,’ says Elizabeth Hay of this duplex in a modern apartment block in Singapore – her most recent project. The interior designer has worked her magic to transform what was once a soulless new build into a homely haven that showcases her signature style of layers, patterns, and color.

Having worked with the clients previously, Elizabeth was naturally the go-to when they bought a larger property. ‘The client is a big supporter of my work and has always loved the style that I bring. She wanted the apartment to be very cozy with lots of layers and color, but practical too as they have a young child.’

The compact space presented certain challenges, particularly due to the profession of the husband of the homeowner couple as a professional chef. ‘Originally, when you first walked into the apartment, there was a much smaller galley kitchen. The husband very much wanted two separate kitchens, which is quite common in Asia, so we had to open the space up,’ says Elizabeth.

A 'wet kitchen' at the back of the apartment is now the venue for heavy-duty cooking and is separated from the open-plan living space by a custom-made brass and reeded glass door. A 'dry kitchen', meanwhile, was created in the open-plan living and dining area.

In the dry kitchen, plaster pink cabinetry is teamed with a green marble worktop that provides the perfect surface for making pastry and pasta. The pretty pinks and soft greens are a cohesive thread that weaves throughout the apartment, along with pastel colors like light blue and sunny yellow, to a joyful effect.

In the open-plan living space, different ceiling heights posed a problem. Elizabeth decided on a polished Venetian plaster finish on the walls and ceiling to soften the scheme. ‘I always like to do textures in an open-plan space. It adds interest but still feels very light and fresh and not too overwhelming.’

The sitting room decor was a careful balancing act between the wife, who was very keen on a layered and patterned look, and the husband, who preferred a slightly more subdued scheme. The solution was the Venetian plaster backdrop with pattern and color woven in with hero furniture and accessories.

The coffee table is a vintage piece bought at auction. Bespoke pale green joinery is both beautiful and practical, housing the clients’ TV while providing additional living room storage. The size of the apartment dictated the need for bespoke furniture.

‘We had to work out carefully all the sizes of the furniture. We masking taped it all out on site because the space was so tight,’ says Elizabeth. As a chef, the husband wanted a dining area that could seat up to ten people, so an extending table was introduced. A bench has storage underneath for napkins and tablecloths.

In Elizabeth’s quest to make everything beautiful, the modern black metal staircase was given a comprehensive facelift. ‘We were quite clever with it,’ she says. ‘We kept the original structure so we didn’t have to replace it, but we clad the treads in wood and painted the risers to completely transform it.’

Extra storage was incorporated beneath and Venetian plaster extended to swathe the staircase walls, designed to resemble wooden cladding.

Elizabeth was able to indulge in color and pattern in the bedrooms and bathrooms. The main bedroom exudes wow factor with a beautiful triple-height vaulted ceiling that was uncovered during the renovation. A four-poster bed was chosen to draw the eye upwards.

A classic scheme was the intention here, with the starting point being the Schumacher fabric on the headboard, which incorporates red, pink, green, blue, and yellow. It was the perfect setting for it, as Elizabeth explains: ‘It feels very fitting and lovely for Singapore because it features ginger flowers and pomegranates and all the things that grow locally.’

Meet the designer

Elizabeth Hay shares her style inspiration

What part of the project was the biggest indulgence?
The marble in the kitchen and the hand-painted tiles in the main bathroom.

What do you consider its greatest success?
How we updated the stairs. We didn’t do anything structural but they were transformed.

What small change has a huge impact?
Adding cornice and skirting throughout the apartment.

Do you have a go-to color?
Green.

Any tips for making a small space appear bigger?
It is a fine balance to not fill it too much but at the same time not to be afraid of using larger rugs and pieces of furniture. I think sometimes it is tempting to put a small rug in a small space for example, but this makes it feel smaller.

Can you reveal an lesser-known homewares shop worth a visit?
Light Stylist for fun lampshades.

The duplex home, overlooking New York's Central Park, was built in 1925 and most recently owned by the late Prince Alexander Nikitich Romanoff and his wife Sicilian Princess Maria 'Mimi' Romanoff. Alexander was the late great-nephew of the last Russian Czar, and is widow Mimi remained at the prestigious 5th Avenue address until 2023.

Although there are many smart private residences in Manhattan's Upper East Side, the neo-renaissance house design of this particular apartment, together with its illustrious history, made it quite a draw when the Romanoffs' heirs put the property up for sale.

There was a further enticement for prospective buyers of the property: namely the creative interior design vision of Jason Saft, founder of Staged To Sell Home. Jason edited, updated, and staged the interiors prior to the apartment's being listed at $5.8 million.

Jason's aim, besides securing an efficient, high-value sale for the apartment, was to help people visualize their dream style as well as their dream home. He quite demonstrably smashed both targets. 'The home received multiple offers within a few weeks, and quickly went into contract for $2 million over asking price,' he says.

Take the tour, as Jason explains how he first fell in love with this piece of history, then sensitively set about updating it and highlighting its best features.

The apartment's neo-classical style interiors begin with a palatial entryway foyer that segments the home between a lower level for entertaining and the second-floor bedrooms.

'I still remember walking into the double-height foyer with its carved brass ceiling late one night,' says Jason. 'I was so taken with that first vision. I was in a daze and was speechless for so long that the estate executor turned to me and asked if I was okay. He was worried that I didn't like the space. I didn't just like, I was in love. In all my years I’ve never seen anything quite like this as a private residence in an apartment building.'

Jason wanted to highlight and showcase the apartment's remarkable period features, but also to demonstrate that contemporary furniture and artworks could look stunning here alongside antiques and show that it's possible to live a modern lifestyle in a historic home.

When Jason first visited the home, it was filled to the brim with antiques and collectibles that the Romanoffs had collected over their life. However, as the couple aged, the home had fallen into disrepair and the rooms were cluttered. 'The first thing I did was clear each room, repaint, and then let the details in the room guide the path forward,' says Jason.

The living room was painted in Farrow & Ball's All White. 'It's a pure, almost stark white that I felt the home needed to juxtapose a hint of modernity set against the traditional moldings and mix of modern and antique pieces that we brought in,' adds Jason. 'Most of the antiques and vintage pieces in the room are from my own collection. I incorporated a few elements from the couple's collection to bridge the connection of the past, present, and future of this legacy home.'

The two ochre Sensorio accent chairs are by Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel, grouped with a vintage mohair sofa.

'The goal was to sell the home by breathing a new sense of life into it through design, to create a home that truly and deeply honored the past and its pedigree but also felt modern and engaging for a wide audience,' says Jason. 'That’s one of the really interesting parts about designing a home for sale, you’re trying to connect with an unknown person.'

So even in formal, traditional living rooms like this one, there are ways to create a more transitional or contemporary scheme, as Jason explains. 'Here it's about a very conscious mix of pieces and time periods to create something that felt as if it had been designed specifically for an art loving, world traveler who enjoys entertaining but also enjoys the comforts of home and wants a space that feels aspirational but approachable,' he adds. 'The intrinsic opulence of the moldings, mirrors and fireplaces spoke volumes, so I wanted to essentially tone down everything we brought in.'

An antique gilded side table doubles as a desk to create an impromptu home office that coincidentally highlights the main living space's exquisite paneling. Contemporary sculptures and a modern Meandre chair by Design Freres, in dark bronze, introduce quirky touches to the otherwise symmetrical set-up, and keeping watch are two majestic and magnificent lions.

Explaining his dining room ideas, Jason says he turned to pure white paint once again, to allow the molding and plasterwork detailing to do the talking, and kept the lines of furniture equally clean. Modernistic Foley dining chairs from CB2 are set around an antique dining table, with an antique gilt swan console table positioned close to the window.

Jason took inspiration from some of his design heroes as he staged the bedrooms. This primary bedroom with its intricate moldings, was inspired by Athena Calderone. 'I love her materiality mix and constant sourcing of really special vintage finds seamlessly meshed with traditional design elements and architecture,' he says. 'The paint color in this room is Jitney by Farrow & Ball. It’s a gorgeous moody historical color that I felt would work with the intricate moldings.'

Among the pieces Jason curated for the room are the Diana bed by Ross Cassidy for CB2, the Ruins Pedestal by Athena Calderone from Crate & Barrel, and the Koukero rug by Sarah Sherman Samuel for Lulu & Georgia.

Jason decided to turn one of the bedrooms into an intimate snug sitting room and chose Farrow & Ball's jewel-toned Brinjal, thinking it would make the perfect partner to the adjoining yellow bedroom.

'We also used a higher gloss to create that brilliant glow. The room was loosely inspired by Jenna Chused’s double parlor in the 2023 Brooklyn Heights Show House. I was enamored with her curation of antique pieces, specifically the art and a book collection that was tucked under the stairs,' says Jason. Alongside art and antiques from his own collection, Jason included an Arrell area rug by Arvin Olano for Rugs Usa, an Espira coffee table and a Bozzi Mongolian chair from CB2.

This yellow bedroom, painted in Farrow & Ball's glittering India Yellow shade was inspired by Princess Mimi Romanoff, the apartment's late owner.

'Mimi was quite the force in the New York social world,' says Jason. 'She loved interiors, fashion, and hosting parties. She created a costume jewelry collection that was all the rage in the 1970s and 1980s. While working on the home I discovered some of her vibrant pieces and I used the gold color that appeared in many of her creations as the foundation for this room, and hoped to bring some of her energy into the design scheme too. '

The area rug is by Giancarlo Valle for Nordic Knots, and the Mushroom Pouf is by Forsyth Art with Beata Hueman fabric.

This is one professional assignment that has clearly affected Jason on a deeply personal level. Reflecting on Mimi's room and on his design and curation of this unique apartment as a whole, he is visibly moved. 'What I loved most is that the people who knew Mimi told me she would have been speechless by the design, and how I considered her into it,' he says. And from the eminently stylish Princess Mimi, that would be praise indeed.

Interior design and staging: Jason Saft Staged to Sell Home
Photography: Shannon Dupre, Hayley Ellen Day and Francisco Rosario at DD-Reps

And when you think of a home in the Canadian countryside, charming log cabin decor and beautiful chalet properties instantly come to mind. They reflect the rural setting and feel right at home in the landscape.

Designer Luke Havekes has owned several properties in the country outside of Montreal, but when he came across this chalet home, he instantly fell in love with it – the perfect place to enjoy cooking, hosting, gardening, and exploring the surrounding countryside. Here, we take a look inside.

'The house is located about one hour outside of Montreal in an area called the Eastern Townships. The area is known for its skiing, vineyards, and generally beautiful country landscapes with rolling hills and sweeping views,' says homeowner and designer Luke Havekes M.Arch.

'The house is just outside of a village called Knowlton which was founded in the mid-1800s. The gated property is close enough to the village that you can walk to the bakery, épicerie, or post office but on a completely private five-acre piece of land with no visible neighbors.'

The location was a real selling point of the property, benefitting from the perfect balance of rural while still being within easy reach of amenities. But the house itself was what really caught Luke's eye, despite it having been left abandoned for almost a decade.

'The house was a typical French Canadian style log house built in 1968. Double story with a steeply sloped roof with huge curved projecting eves and small peaked dormer windows. The services of a Montreal Architect Adam Borowczyk were enlisted to break the mold and add more presence and charm to the exterior and interior spaces,' Luke explains.

The project was not without its challenges. With ambitious plans to update and modify the property, lots of planning and structural work was required. And the timing of the build couldn't have come at a more difficult time.

'Every challenge possible that could be faced with this project was faced! The closing for the property took place days before the beginning of the global pandemic. A build that was meant to take about a year ended up taking triple the time planned and triple the budget,' says Luke.

While the footprint of the property remained the same, a large steel beam was added through the main ridge of the house to provide much-needed support through to the basement, allowing them to add new dormers at the back of the home and reinforce the existing ones at the front.

'Soaring cathedral ceilings were also achieved throughout the upper floor of the house in every room. The upper floor went from feeling pokey and tight to airy and spacious,' Luke explains.

'The roof on the house is a nod to Quebec’s French history. The roof is in hand-folded steel applied in diamond panels, modified in the same manner that was historically used in Europe and New France.' The lower level needed work, too, so part of the remodel included adding windows along the basement wall to fill the space with light.

'The brief was to breathe new life into the shell of the building and retain any redeeming qualities or good architectural characteristics. Any interventions would be made to look like they were always there and enhance the overall feeling and features of what was intended to be a timeless quintessential Canadian country home.'

While maintaining the integrity of the house itself was an important part of the remodel, the interiors needed to pay homage to its roots while also creating a home that feels cozy, lived-in, and reflective of the homeowner. Something that's been achieved seamlessly.

The decor has been heavily inspired by Luke's travels – vintage and antique pieces collected from around the world have been displayed throughout the home. 'Masks collected from travels in Africa, antique prints and textiles from Japan, tapestries from France, Fortuny silk lighting from Venice, and an international selection of carpets from destinations like Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan anchor each room,' he says.

The attention to detail that has gone into decorating this home is second to none. Custom details are present throughout, from upholstery pieces in various rooms to furniture made specifically for the spaces they live in, including the 13-foot daybed in the dining room, a 14-seater dining table made from a single slab of walnut, and the pair of travertine nesting cocktail tables in the living room.

'There is also a large collection of antiques in the house from various periods and places. An Art Deco library table in the living room, a mahogany French commode in the entry, a serpentine mid-century sofa in the master bedroom, and a few Victorian pieces for good measure,' explains Luke.

That sense of old meets new continues throughout the decor, with contemporary artworks by Canadian artists mixed with antique pieces. The finishing touches have clearly been considered, too. Lighting was a priority, ensuring each room had the right ambiance and that the fixtures tied into the scheme beautifully.

'The living room and dining room have custom lights designed by my firm and made in Montreal from solid brass. Antique sconces are found in most rooms with original glass shades.'

The result is a home that feels timeless and authentic, and the use of 'noble materials' and considered finishes throughout allows the interiors to age and evolve over the years, creating a natural patina and a truly lived-in and loved home.

'It's an elevated version of the original which sat for decades untouched and preserved widely through neglect. The unique elements and details stand out but harmonize within each of the spaces giving them continuity and an overall feeling of timeless quality,' says Luke.

'Every season is different and brings different vantages and surprises. It's a very special home that was very well worth all the challenges and efforts spent to achieve!'

This chalet home might have undergone a serious remodel, but the sympathetic renovations ensured that the home still felt authentic to its roots. From the beautiful log cabin kitchen to the beautiful displays of collected antiques around the home, the design is sure to stand the test of time – and feels far from the abandoned chalet it once was.

'The light runs across three buildings overlooking a garden square and the minute we walked in we felt we were in a tree house,’ she recalls. But the flat had been carved up into many small rooms stunting the light and views, so first on the couple’s agenda was a revised floor plan with more open space.

Wasting no time getting started, Gayle and George assembled a crack team for the house design project consisting of Jena Quinn and Lucy Derbyshire, the founders of interior design firm Studio QD, and Gayle’s son-in-law, Toby Osborne, who became the project manager and builder.

‘We all spent a long time together thinking about transitional design, or in other words – how best to marry the old and the new. It was a great team effort,’ Gayle says. Jena and Lucy had both trained under Nicky Haslam with Jena having met Gayle in 2001 when she had come to the firm to introduce her own company, Gayle Warwick Fine Linen.

‘Over the years, we have developed a wonderful friendship and collaboration with Gayle incorporating her luxurious linens in our interiors, so when Gayle and her husband George decided to develop the apartment, we were honored to work with her,’ Jena says.

‘The first thing that struck us were the huge windows flooding filtered verdant light in from outside and all these dazzling, dancing leaves. It was simply stunning and we knew immediately there was a magic to the space. But it was decorated in heavy, dark 1980s colors. Wonderfully though, the bones were there,’ Jena says.

‘Architecturally, our priority was to create a feeling of spaciousness, opening up the rooms while also creating distinctive zones. We removed the wall from the kitchen to the dining room and then added bookshelves between the sitting room and dining area. We wanted to harness the incredible light, and with the lateral living, create a sense of flow through the space.

'While we relished the brightness and airiness the new floor plan gave us, we wanted to bring in tone and depth. The contrasts of dark and light and masculine and feminine are what provide the interest, along with sculptural forms and plenty of artwork,’ Jena elaborates.

‘Being able to decorate with art, especially if from a magnificent collection like Gayle's, is a great gift for a designer,' Jena says. Several large works by Marcelle Hanselaar animate the space. The contemporary Dutch artist living in London and one of Gayle’s closest friends.

Elsewhere, a gallery wall in the dining room features works by Pierre Bonnard, Alberto Giacometti, and Robert Delaunay. ‘The works of art set the color palette. For the living spaces we chose French Grey by Edward Bulmer as it has a lovely depth of tone while simultaneously providing a brightness,’ Jena notes. ‘We decided early on to use Edward's paints as they are environmentally friendly'.

The great thing was that Jena and Lucy had an immediate sense of what I liked and what would be timeless,’ Gayle adds. The bathroom in Jonquil and the bedroom in Welmish Blew both divert from the calm neutrals of the living areas. Upon reflection, the pale pink is especially flattering. ‘When you’re in the bathroom with the light on, you’re as beautiful as you can be,’ Jena notes.

The consideration of beauty had always been a pertinent calling card of their former tutor. ‘When we worked with Nicky years ago, we saw that he would always line his light shades in pink silk. He said the success of a room is how beautiful the owner looks in it so we chose colors that Gayle looks radiant in,’ Jena explains.

Furniture is carefully tailored, balanced, and finely tuned to sit alongside the artwork and Gayle’s antique pieces. ‘The sofas and rugs were custom made. We even got Gayle to come and try out the firmness of the sofas in the workshop.

As soon as something is custom, its proportions are perfect and every personalized detail just enhances the overall aesthetic,’ Jena adds. ‘I trusted Lucy and Jena’s eye and their attention to detail,’ says Gayle, ‘but one of the best parts was just the amount of fun we had.’

Meet the designer

The designer shares her style inspiration

What was the biggest indulgence of the project?
Customized soft furnishings. By commissioning bespoke pieces, you can ensure your furniture fits effortlessly into the space, enhancing the tailored look of your interior.

What do you consider the project's greatest success?
The sense of cohesion. By running a restrained color palette throughout, we created an instant visual connection between the spaces regardless of their distinctive zoning.

Tell us a small change that has a great impact.
By introducing the bookcases, we were able to retain the open-plan feeling while creating a more intimate zoning around the dining table. It allowed books to be stored on one side and more wall space for Gayle’s beautiful art on the other.

Do you have a go-to color palette?
Autumnal tones.

Any design heroes?
Nicky Haslam. He trained me and I was constantly inspired by his approach.

Can you reveal a secret address for our book?
Rupert Bevan for beautiful mirrors. He produces incredible antique and eglomise mirrors which we regularly incorporate into our interiors

A recent renovation has pared back years of unsympathetic changes and finishes to reveal even more of the home's period details, while the redesigned interiors by Bridgid Williams have brought the house closer to its true self. Beautifully crafted furniture, old and new, and exquisite details and finishes all combine in a transitional scheme that's full of warmth and character.

Take the tour, as Bridgid highlights some of the key elements that made all the difference to this redesign and offers expert insights to help bring any old home back to life.

1. Preserve unique and handcrafted decorative details

Entryway ideas put the original handmade terracotta tiles right at the heart of the scheme. With such fine craftsmanship and rich colors it was the only way to go for Bridgid, who took the terracotta shades as her starting point for the whole home's palette.

Her decision to reinstate the soft white plaster walls, typical of Spanish colonial revival homes, helped to highlight the decorative tile details on the interior stair risers and ironwork on the railings.

'We eliminated baseboards throughout and instead opted for plaster walls that died directly into the flooring and reintroduced bullnose corners that had been lost in former renovations,' explains Bridgid. 'The terracotta floors in the entry feature a century-old dog paw print preserved in one of the tiles from when the tiles were created, and speaks to finding beauty in the imperfection. The paw print also proved fortuitous as the homeowner has been a lifelong veterinarian!'

2. Combine heirloom pieces with well-crafted new furniture

One sure way to ensure a room design stays relevant without sacrificing character is to blend antiques with more recently crafted pieces. With her kitchen ideas Bridgid combines a vintage Welsh potboard with one of her favorite pieces in the home – the island. 'This was custom built from scratch to resemble a large furniture piece which anchors the space and allows for display of all of my client’s treasures,' says Bridgid. 'She loves vintage finds that bring her joy and are conversation pieces.'

Old and new can sit happily side by side provided they match in their quality of craftsmanship and materials.

3. Reinstate classic details in the kitchen

Alongside the original tiles in the kitchen, other typically Spanish-colonial details stands out. A traditional-style extractor hood in white plaster finish replaced an incongruous stainless steel hood, while a warm Tadelakt plaster backsplash is more in keeping with the age and style of the house.

'We allowed the original terracotta floors to be the “hero” moment and designed around them,' says Bridgid. 'For the cabinetry, we chose a complimentary sophisticated navy hue to offset the rich rust color of the floors. The cabinetry is painted in Farrow & Ball’s Black Blue. The combination is striking but doesn’t feel overwhelming dark or moody as the space is flooded with natural light.'

4. Source vintage pieces with character

Merging two spaces, the kitchen and dining room, meant that the designer's dining room ideas and furnishings had to be compatible and complementary to the kitchen scheme. Using vintage pieces helped to ground the dining area with the adjoining space and add character. And it's a common-sense approach that can be used in any adjacent rooms.

Explaining how the look came about, she says: 'We opted for visually lighter dining chairs here to sit in front of the darker cabinetry so we didn’t overwhelm the space. Wicker is one of those materials that feels inherently Santa Barbara so introducing a small moment of it felt at home here.'

Bridgid collaborated with architect Peter Vincent to come up with a sympathetic way to open up the back of the house. 'The solution,' says Brigid, 'was to create a thick three-centered arch between the kitchen and dining room that serves as a new central axis for the rear of the house.

'This functionally opened the space to better serve entertaining. It also reintroduced a softness to the space that had been lost in the orthogonal framed openings added in previous remodels and additions,' adds Bridgid.

A custom white oak racetrack dining table by Petersen Antiques, and a Linear chandelier from Currey & Co complete the look. The Miramar chairs are by Rooms & Gardens with custom cushions in Jasper Jaipur Stripe.

5. Appreciate the quirky elements

The living room, or great room, retains an unexpected original detail; an orchestra balcony, that once housed performers during festivities. While a dedicated stage for musicians overlooking the living room might not be part of contemporary family life, appreciating and preserving the quirkier elements of an old home can brings an additional layer of interest. The original fireplace, iron railings and stairs up to the balcony are also still intact, all adding to the charm of this home.

6. Highlight vaulted ceilings and arched openings

Peeling back the layers to restore the home's original character, and highlighting and preserving original details, such as the arched openings and cathedral ceiling in the great room were central to this renovation. However, it was never about living in a museum, as designer Bridgid explains: 'In terms of hard finishes and materials chosen, opting for living finishes and materials, embracing imperfection and the notion that the materials will age in place and patina over time and become more at home in the space as it’s lived in.

The long, narrow layout of this space allowed for two separate sitting areas. Two identical jute rugs marry the adjacent conversation areas and create visual connectivity and continuity between them. Not wanting the space to fall flat, we chose petite club chairs upholstered in a buttery cognac leather to sit around an ottoman covered in a bold fabric that infused a bit of color into the space. Pops of green became a common thread in this space – the grandfather clock, pillows on the sofas at the other end of the space, wingback chair on the orchestra balcony, and the peek of green from the entry artwork when looking back towards the staircase.'

7. Try earthy tones to reflect Mediterranean hues

'This house was all about warmth and infusing bits of color and patterns that sing and make you feel happy!' adds Bridgid and the bedroom ideas for the guest room feature earthy tones that would make anyone feel at home. The palette is perfectly aligned with both the laid-back California style, and with the shades typically associated with Spanish style homes, where baked terracotta and sunbleached whites are key.

8. Treasure an original fireplace

It's one of the most appealing and typical details of Spanish architecture – the original corner bedroom fireplace, with its rounded profile and stucco chimney breast. It makes a charming focal point in the guest suite upstairs at the front of the house.

9. Opt for waterproof plaster walls

In the primary suite, bathroom ideas are all about creating a spa-like sanctuary; a place for relaxation and pampering. White plaster walls give the space a softness and a feeling of calm, and are highly practical as they're fully waterproof.

'The intent was to have this space feel like a calm retreat,' adds Bridgid. 'Instead of using a handmade tile here, we opted for waterproof plaster in the shower. Its simplicity is striking and allows the other elements in the space like the chandelier above the tub and the beautiful custom reeded cabinetry (see below) to sing without competing with it.'

It's interesting how you don't miss wall tiles in a space like this, and the absence of them only adds to the relaxing vibe.

10. Decorate with texture to give depth to a scheme

Still in the primary en suite, this double vanity is well worth a mention. The cabinet's textured reed detailing adds a decorative element and provides an understated highlight in the scheme. It was custom designed and built for the bathroom, and is a beautifully crafted piece.

11. Seek out complementary newer furniture to fit the home's heritage

A pair of bobbin beds are the perfect fit for a home that champions traditional craftsmanship and woodturning skills. Bobbin furniture is still very much on trend so is a great way to give a room a contemporary edge.

'In the grandkids' room, we wanted to continue the use of color – specifically the color green – but incorporate it in a more youthful manner,' says Bridgid. 'We chose a more saturated hue to color drench the beds in. And lighter pink tones rather than rust seen elsewhere also felt more age appropriate but complementary to the color palette in the main living spaces.'

The beds are the Crate & Barrel Kids Jenny Lind beds, refinished in Benjamin Moore Galapagos Green.

12. Create bespoke pieces to continue the theme

In the grandchildren's en suite, where space is tight, a custom vanity fits the bill perfectly, for style and size. Turned legs and a traditional dark wood stain give a nostalgic look to a newly created space.

'Throughout this home, where we couldn’t find a vintage piece to fit the bill, we commissioned fabulous artisans and craftspeople to make them. Specifically for the grandkids’ modest bathroom vanity, a gorgeous custom barley twist leg piece in a rich mahogany stain from Paul Smith Studios became a hero piece,' says Bridgid. 'Because the space is so small we introduced a small amount of pattern in the shower with the mosaic banding. This created visual interest without overwhelming the small footprint.'

13. Design the exterior landscaping for the perfect finishing touches

We said it was all about the detail with this home, and the exterior landscaping and backyard ideas do not disappoint.

Alexander Champagne Landscape Design took the lead outside. 'Simplifying the landscape to integrate with the architecture was one of the primary goals here,' says Alexander. 'Collaboration was critical in the areas where the building meets the landscape because that is where the indoor-outdoor experience occurs.'

Interior design: Bridgid Williams
Photography: Sara Tramp
Styling: Emily Bowser & Helen Highfield Architecture: Peter Vincent Architects
Landscape Architecture: Alexander Champagne Landscape Design