Latest from Homes & Gardens in Architecture

What is a Tuscan-style house? Everything you need to know about this Mediterranean-inspired architectural design

Eleanor Richardson — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Influenced by the farmhouse buildings found scattered throughout the Mediterranean, Tuscan architecture strikes a balance between rustic and ornate elements. It's a reimagined style that draws upon historical architecture, inspired by the simplistic, hearty design of Italian houses dating back to the Roman period.

Tuscan architecture is a relatively common house style in the United States, found throughout the country, but is most popular in the western regions, such as California, due to the warmer climate. Dubbed 'Tuscan' due to its historical roots, the architectural style is heavily influenced by the Mediterranean homes that make up much of Italy's rural landscape.

Characterized by their terracotta-tiled roofs, limewashed stone facades, and stylized wrought-iron features, much like Mediterranean-style homes, the Tuscan style heavily references classical Italian buildings, namely those found in the central region of Tuscany.

The history of the Tuscan style

(Image credit: Michael Clifford Photography )

Although called 'Tuscan', the style is an adaptation of traditional Italian architecture, brought to the United States in the late 19th century by Americans who traveled across Europe.

However, original Tuscan architecture dates back to the Roman period. To withstand hot climates, homes were built using locally sourced materials such as wood and stone, designed to keep interiors cool and stand the test of time. Roofs were thick and sturdy, made from terracotta tiles, and walls were robust, typically made from lime-washed stone.

Unlike today's Tuscan-style homes, historically, properties in the Mediterranean were smaller and darker inside, designed to keep light (and therefore heat) out. Today's Tuscan-style homes you find in the U.S. differ slightly from their inspiration, both externally and internally. Boasting airy, open-plan living room layouts and ornate features, American homes influenced by the historic style nod to the past in a reimagined way that's lighter and larger.

Today, you can expect to see a similar use of material (namely, wooden beams and stone as the property's main body), but with entirely more lavish additions. Ornate stucco, both on the facade of a Tuscan-style property (carved into the stonework) and inside, featured on walls, staircases, and ceilings. Similarly, intricate ironwork is a common theme in today's homes, featured on balconies, doorframes, staircases, and other architectural details.

What is a Tuscan-style house?

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A highly lavish style that draws upon classical references, Tuscan architecture is a direct interpretation of Mediterranean styles. Scott Sottile, Partner at Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, explains, 'Mediterranean style generally describes architecture that is from Italy and Spain from the Renaissance onward. In simpler forms, these buildings reference farmhouses from agricultural regions like Tuscany and Andalusia, both noted for their picturesque hillsides where the architecture integrates into the landscape.'

'In grander forms, the architecture is largely influenced by the neoclassicism of the Renaissance, with the symmetrical buildings of Palladio figuring prominently,' continues Scott. 'These are the forms we looked to when we designed a new courtyard house in Los Angeles; the owners wanted to recall Tuscan villas they had rented for family holidays.'

What are the architectural characteristics of a Tuscan-style house?

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A few defining features make up the Tuscan style. Architect Stephen Spandle explains, 'A certain rusticity characterizes this genre. Exterior hallmarks of Tuscan-style design include stone and brick walls, often coated in stucco; exposed heavy timber rafter tails; terracotta tile roofing; and elegant casement windows with wooden shutters. Interiors often feature materials such as plaster walls, wood beam ceilings, and terracotta or travertine flooring.'

Scott explains further, 'In the U.S., Mediterranean style is characterized by the use of natural materials like stucco and stone for walls, terracotta tiles for the roofs, and the use of wood timbers for architectural detailing. Wrought iron is also a trademark. Thick walls provide insulation from the exterior temperatures.'

(Image credit: Collaborations: Architecture Interiors Landscapes by Ferguson & Shamamian Architects. Photo by Lisa Romerein)

No Tuscan-style house is complete without a Mediterranean garden, typically taking the shape of a loggia or courtyard. Scott says, 'Indoor/outdoor spaces, like loggias, take advantage of the temperate climates similar to the Mediterranean coastal regions.'

In a bid to mimic the enviably serene courtyards of Tuscan palaces, Scott included a classical garden feature in his recent project, pictured above. 'For our clients in Los Angeles, where the weather allows for much outdoor living, we opened as many rooms as possible to an interior courtyard garden and loggias facing the lawn to maximize the flow to the landscape beyond.'

What are the interior characteristics of a Tuscan-style house?

(Image credit: Future)

Interiors that are sympathetic to the Tuscan style typically feature a rustic color palette, organic textures, and ornate details. Scott explains, 'The use of natural materials inside the house provides a backdrop for Mediterranean interior decor. Limestone floors, terracotta tiles, beamed or coffered wood ceilings, and abundant stained and carved wood trims are key elements in the design.'

Dak Kopec, professor of architecture at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, explains that the Tuscan-style homes embrace warm color schemes. 'Colors are usually warm and earthy, but aged with a sun-faded appearance. They fall into the ochres, terracottas, burnt siennas, rusty reds, golden yellows, olive greens, and warm chocolaty browns. However, these colors need to be desaturated for that sun-faded look. Often, grapevines, olive branches, sunflowers, or wheat motifs are included in the design and color palette.'

He adds, 'Furnishing takes on a farmhouse appearance with solid and heavy woods, bench seating at a heavy wooden table, wrought iron fixtures, handrails, and accessories like candlesticks. Plush, overstuffed seating with natural fabrics like linen and cotton. Lighting tends to be warm with shaded fixtures or amber-toned glass: wrought iron chandeliers, minimal coverings on arched windows.'

'Walls tend to be textured with faux finishes such as aged patina – lots of Travertine, terracotta, or hand-painted ceramic tiles in floors, backsplashes, and stair risers. Some of the architectural details include arched doorways and windows, barrel vaults, and exposed wood beams for the ceiling.'

Tuscan-style houses are grand and luxurious but also balance rusticity, combining classic farmhouse elements with more ornate details. They're a prominent part of America's architectural history and can be found all over the country. Much like ranch-style houses, Tuscan homes are common in states such as Arizona, Florida, and California due to their warmer, coastal climates that mimic the European climates from which the architecture is inspired.

What is a shingle style home? Everything you need to know about this classic coastal architectural style

Eleanor Richardson — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Synonymous with the East Coast, 'Shingle' is a long-established architectural style that became popularized in the late 19th century. You can find shingle homes all over the country, but the style is best represented in the Northeastern United States, where you'll find classically influenced houses with wood shingle facades dotted all along the coast.

The shingle house style is one of the most distinct and recognizable forms of American architecture, heavily influenced by the Queen Anne style. Built to blend into their natural surroundings, shingle homes feel harmonious with their coastal settings.

Randy Correll, partner at Robert A.M. Stern Architects, says, 'Shingle style architecture derived from the Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, and Arts and Crafts styles of the late nineteenth century. The wood, usually cedar, shingle skin, expresses the volumes of the spaces within. The architectural massing of shingled houses is picturesque, dependent on the balance of elements rather than symmetries.'

What is shingle architecture?

Stephen Chrisman, Partner at Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, explains, 'Shingle style architecture is typically defined as an American domestic architectural type from the last quarter of the nineteenth century consisting of wood frame houses, with natural wood on the exterior walls and roof.'

'The type began in the 1870s with inspiration from English Arts and Crafts house style and Queen Anne buildings, often with exterior wall tiles, coupled with a renewed interest in American Colonial Architecture following the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia.'

The floor plan of a shingle-style house is unique. Stephen says, 'The houses have a simplicity in floor plans and especially the massing, with the wood exteriors providing a continuous volume, and sometimes over rough stone bases, along with large brick or stone chimneys and interiors with large fireplaces often set within inglenooks.

Randy adds that many shingle homes are built around the central 'hall'. 'The ‘Hall’ is at the center of a Shingle style house plan; it can be the entrance hall or the primary living room, or a combination of both. The staircase is usually a sculptural feature that cascades into the Hall. All of the primary rooms organically open off the Hall, again, symmetry is not the organizing principle.'

From the exterior, you'll typically see 'Covered porches, or ‘piazzas’ as they were labeled in the original Shingle style plans, encircle the primary rooms. Generously sized double-hung windows and French doors open to the porches and the views beyond.' says Randy.

(Image credit: Sandra Cavallo / Old Silver Shed)

When it comes to the interiors of a Shingle style home Randy explains, 'The interior of a Shingle Style house should be eclectic. Some of the original houses were influenced by Japanese architecture, but most had Georgian or Arts and Crafts roots. The furnishings should reflect people’s travels and history.'

'Colors can be pale and monochromatic or bold and varied. Stained wood paneling with carved and turned details is especially handsome in the Hall and library room. Wood floors throughout, plank or parquet work equally well, topped by carpets that could be Persian, sisal, or anything between. Chintz and patterned wallpapers are to be expected in shingled houses, especially in the bedrooms.'

1. A recently constructed family home in East Hampton

(Image credit: Collaborations: Architecture Interiors Landscapes by Ferguson & Shamamian Architects. Photos by)

Architecture of today is still heavily inspired by traditional styles such as shingle. An example of sympathetic design, Stephen explains the construction of the recently completed East Hampton home, pictured above, influenced by 19th-century architecture.

He says, 'We started with studying and measuring details of local examples of early American architecture and wanted the entire property to reflect the agrarian orchards and farms of the area that were prevalent at the turn of the century. With that in mind, we created a simple, wood-frame house that feels as though it’s been on the site for generations.'

Stephen adds, 'The client wanted both historic inspiration and contemporary practicality, and that’s the magic of designing today – when you are intentional about character and interpretation, you can deliver both. Together with our client and the interior designer Michael S. Smith, we developed a design narrative of a house built over several generations, with wings, small additions, and extensions, along with loggias and enclosed porches focused on ocean views.'

'The overall ambiance of the house is that it feels like it has been on the site for a very long time.'

2. A colonial property given a shingle style extension

(Image credit: Eric Piasecki / OTTO)

Recently built, this East Hampton home was designed around an existing colonial house. Randy explains that the simplicity of the original property appealed to the clients, so they constructed a shingle style property built around a central hall.

'We transformed this archetype into a shingle style house by encircling the house with porches, cladding it in cedar shingles, and opening up the plan both room-to-room and to the gardens. The center hall remained but was opened to the second floor and the garden beyond.'

3. A 1905 shingle home located in Cape Cod

(Image credit: Sandra Cavallo / Old Silver Shed)

Sandra Cavallo, founder of the popular home page Old Silver Shed, purchased her shingle-style home in 2004 and brought it back to life. A Folk Victorian built in 1905, Sandra says, 'the home is perched high on a bluff overlooking Old Silver Beach on one side, and the Herring River salt marsh on the other.'

When asked about the distinctive features of her home, she said, 'Some of the architectural features that resonated with us were the silvery grey shingles, the cross-gambrel rooflines, the shed dormers, the use of positive/negative space, (like our farmer’s porch where the porch is inset into the house structure) and the large covered porches and lookout decks.'

Explaining the renovation process, Sandra said, 'We would respect the design elements important to shingle-style architecture while paying homage to the original cottage. We would build a LEED-certified house, employing modern sustainability principles. To take advantage of the expansive views of Buzzard’s Bay, the strategic placement of windows would be important. We wanted a home that felt cozy but airy with an open, easy floor plan.'

Shingle architecture is one of the most distinctive styles, perhaps best displayed in New England and Long Island. With shingled facades made from wood, stylized columns, and wraparound porches, you can spot a shingle style home from a mile off. If you're looking to brush up on other examples of classical architecture, federal style homes are equally historic, impactful, and timeless.

What is a shotgun house? The history behind this tiny one-of-a-kind architectural style

Eleanor Richardson — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 11:00:00 +0000

'Shotgun' is a long-established house style in the United States, best known for its narrow structure and linear layout. Dubbed shotgun due to its slender architecture that would theoretically allow a bullet to be fired from one end to the other, these houses are scattered across the country but are most common in southern states, namely New Orleans.

A house style that popped up in the 19th century, shotgun houses were a popular architectural style that was easy to design and construct, a solution to housing shortages during the Civil War. While shotgun houses vary in style, almost all are less than five meters wide, composed of a distinctive wood frame, and are raised slightly above the ground.

What is a shotgun house?

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Shotgun houses are unique in both design and story, representing an important chapter of America's history.

Jacob Naig, from Webuyhousesindesmoines, says 'Houses were built to be low-cost, efficient homes that could accommodate the rapid urbanization and crowded living conditions in places such as New Orleans, Charleston, and parts of Florida. Being narrow, their design suited land use and the expansion of towns, and worked well in cheap land areas, which saw rapid expansion. Key features of the shotgun house are both simplicity of design and construction, which is why it has been able to be so adaptable in terms of setting and market.'

(Image credit: Getty Images)

You can pinpoint a shotgun house due to its unusual construction. Narrow and long, properties designed in the shotgun style have a distinctive charm and quaintness filled with history.

Claire Cox, an expert in historical styles with Page & Turnbull in San Francisco, explains 'This house typology is characterized by its one-story, narrow, rectangular footprint with a gable or hipped roof and front porch. The layout is generally one room wide by three to five rooms deep, and each room opens in a line to the next without the use of a hallway. This allows airflow in the hot, humid climate of the South.' Shotgun houses also have high ceilings for cooling purposes, and their lack of hallways allows ventilation to reach the furthest side of the house.

While some shotgun houses have relatively simple, facades, others are decadent and grand, featuring bespoke front porches and architectural details. Claire adds, 'Ornamentation of these vernacular structures varies from minimal detailing to the intricate woodwork characteristic of Victorian Era-styles.'

(Image credit: Rachel Whyte and Jeff Jones)

Jacob says, 'Originally, Shotgun houses were modest and no-nonsense, but there are plenty of updated versions that have been flipped, so now you can find them looking chic and modern. These airy properties, with their historical appeal, are favorites for renovation, particularly in cities that prize their distinctive architectural heritage.'

Interior designer Joanna Gaines transformed the undone shotgun house pictured above in her 'Fixer Upper' series. She breathed new life into the abandoned property, reconstructing its roof and facade with new wood panelling and a lick of sophisticated blue paint. Despite following exterior paint trends and using newer materials, it's the perfect example of a historically sympathetic renovation, acknowledging its past and bringing it back to life with a contemporary eye.

One-of-a-kind in story and design, shotgun houses are an important chapter in America's rich architectural history. They stand as reminders of early 19th-century design and represent the diverse past of neighbourhoods all over the country.

9 antique trends to look out for when thrifting in 2025

Molly Malsom — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Decorating with a mix of old and new creates interiors filled with depth and interest. So, making sure you're up to date with antique trends means you can look out for seriously stylish pieces.

Whether you're on the lookout for big furniture pieces or smaller decorative items, experts say there are a few things you should keep an eye out for this year – especially if you want to up your game when decorating with antiques.

From unique decor to furniture from bygone eras, these are the antique trends to have on your radar for 2025 – and worth getting your hands on during your second-hand shopping haunts.

9 antiques trends to have on your radar in 2025

For many people, collecting and decorating with antiques is already a perfected practice, but for others, it's a new world that can be a bit of a minefield to navigate.

'People should always try to buy an antique before looking for something new, for obvious reasons. Some of the bigger pieces benefit from being antique because they are such great value for money, and these can become the main pieces in any room, and you can accessorize around them,' says antiques expert Matthew Cox.

From case goods to smaller decor pieces, these are the antique trends designers and dealers say you should know about in 2025.

1. Antique tapestries

(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors )

Move over framed art – there's a better way to decorate your walls that adds a statement design feature full of texture and visual appeal. Antique tapestries have been slowly rising in popularity – and 2025 is the year they finally get the full appreciation they deserve.

'I continue to be amazed by the rich array of antiques on 1stDibs and the ways in which collectors and interior designers are gravitating back to them. Among the most interesting categories gaining traction with our audience today are antique tapestries, which, like all textile art, offer a warmth and visual richness to a room that paintings and prints just can’t,' says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs.

'The most valuable – and sought-after – examples were made by the Aubusson, Beauvais and Gobelins factories during the 17th and 18th centuries in the Verdure style (although later versions can be appealing too and found at a slightly lower price point),' he adds.

French Verdure Antique Wall Tapestry

Hand-woven using wool, this French antique tapestry dating from the 17th century will add an abundance of color and texture to a room.

Vertical 18th Century Flemish Verdure Tapestry

Offering a moodier color palette, this Baroque-style tapestry is the perfect size for a tall room – or a hallway or staircase in need of visual interest.

Bobyrug’s French Aubusson style Jacquard tapestry

Originating from the late 19th century, this French wall tapestry depicts a charming countryside scene – it will fit in with plenty of design styles.

2. Drinks trolleys

(Image credit: Benji Lewis Design)

Wine fridges, glass-fronted cabinets, and glass racks have all cropped up recently as good places to store and display beverages and glassware, but in 2025, antique and vintage drinks trolleys are the most desirable choice.

'Drinks trolleys are always going to be good, but I’d likely look for them in brass and glass or painted metal with mirrored shelves rather than wood,' says interior designer Benji Lewis.

'Remember to have not only your booze on it but also glasses and an ice bucket – even a small chopping board for your lemon and your mixers if you have space,' he adds.

3. Art Nouveau designs

(Image credit: Laurey Glenn )

It's not always one particular item worth looking out for, but antiques of a certain era or style can surge in popularity (and value). And in 2025, Art Nouveau pieces are worth keeping an eye out for. And this year's trend for mid to dark tones wood caters perfectly to this era.

'Although Art Deco works have long been among our most desirable antique offerings, we’ve been seeing growing interest in pieces in the slightly earlier Art Nouveau style, whose organic forms were inspired by the natural world,' says Anthony.

'These pieces incorporate into their design flowers and foliage and sinuous curves and they are often characterized by skilled craftsmanship (and fine woods and other luxurious materials).'

4. Wall-mounted candle holders

(Image credit: Gray Walker Interiors)

Smaller decorative pieces are always worth looking out for. They add character and charm to spaces in a less expected way. And in 2025, wall-mounted candle holders are the antiques to look out for.

'Wall-mount candle holders are still all the rage – and the vintage ones are the best! Look for antique brass, silver, or iron. I love these in hallways or dining rooms,' says Thea Bloch-Neal of Curated by Thea.

In this dining room, the designer has opted for elegant, decadent wall-mounted candle holders, but simpler designs like those in the Spanish Revival style can look just as striking.

5. Mid-century designs

(Image credit: Victoria Maria / Photography Belen Imaz & Pedro Bermejo)

Another era with antiques that are always popular and sought after, antiques by Mid-century designers and makers are always an exciting find, and they are set to be a big trend again in 2025.

'Mid-century is still great to look out for, not least because with thought you can either blend it in with trad furnishings or make it work in a modern setting,' explains Benji.

Furniture, decor, and even glassware from the era are all worth keeping an eye out for. Mid-century pieces work seamlessly with a multitude of interior design styles and embrace this year's growing trends for wood accents and primary play.

5. Antique case pieces

(Image credit: Henley Design/Joyelle West Photography)

There's no denying the quality of antique furniture – especially large wooden pieces. The craftsmanship is exquisite and the attention to detail is unrivaled – they just add something extra special to interiors.

'We love sourcing large antique case pieces for our projects because the quality joinery and solid hardwood construction are far superior to a new piece mass-produced in a factory for the same cost in today's market – if you are lucky enough to source these pieces from a local antique shop,' says Sarah Henley of Henley Design.

'In New England, we are blessed with many fantastic antique stores, including European Country Antiques in Cambridge Massachusetts, where we sourced a simple French armoire for the music room of our Boston client's residence. The scale of the piece helps balance the room, and the simple, hearty character of the piece grounds the eclecticism of the space,' she explains.

6. Japanese antiques

(Image credit: Audo Copenhagen)

In 2024, regionally-inspired designs such as Japandi and wabi sabi have dominated interior design trends, and for the year ahead, it's Japanese antiques that are topping the trends for pieces to look out for.

'We are noticing that antiques from Japan are once again striking a chord with collectors in the West. Gilt byobu screens and antique Tansu cabinets are among the most searched-for pieces in this category,' says Anthony.

Also appealing are European and British Japonisme pieces (which align with the shift toward Art Nouveau). When Japan reopened to the west in 1876, the country’s prominent pavilion at that year's international exposition in Philadelphia had a profound influence on decorative and fine art taste,' he adds.

As designers and homeowners continue to appreciate the unique designs created by Japanese makers and designers, expect to see more antiques that feel at home in these popular design aesthetics.

'Today’s appreciation for organic materials and silhouettes and an interest in the wabi-sabi aesthetic helps to explain the current pull toward Japanese antiques, whose simplicity of form has a very modern feel. Though not technically antiques, mid-century designs in the Japanese style are hot, including Ingo Maurer’s Uchiwa lighting and Isamu Noguchi’s Akari lamps,' Anthony explains.

7. Antique dining chair sets with sculptural details

(Image credit: Henley Design/Joyelle West Photography)

It can be tricky to find matching sets of antique pieces, but when you do, designers say you should absolutely take them home with you. And this year, dining chair sets are the focus.

'Lately, we have been on the lookout for antique sets of dining chairs that strike the balance of sculptural interest to set off the room and just the right amount of approachable informality to make guests feel right at home. Early 20th-century antique dining chairs are often scaled slightly larger than their earlier predecessors which lends comfort to the dining experience (especially after re-padding and reupholstering the seats– an easy and inexpensive upgrade),' says Sarah.

'We recently sourced a set of George III-style mahogany dining chairs for our client's dining room in Boston. The wavy motif on the backs adds a charming element to the room, and the printed linen seats add levity to the heaviness of the mahogany frames, helping merge the antiques with the more contemporary pieces in the room – including a Beata Heuman rise-fall pendant light, a set of Louise Roe hand blown glass balloon vases from Copenhagen, and a walnut dining table of a mid-century modern design.'

8. Lighting and unique decorative objects

(Image credit: Stone Textile Studio/Photographer Dustin Halleck)

It's those finishing touches that give a scheme personality and visual interest, and in 2025, it's all about using antique designs to make your design really stand out.

'A vintage light fixture can really transform a space, having something unique and special in each space (or many somethings!) is a very important part of our design process,' says Elizabeth Mollen, of Stone Textile Studio.

'We love incorporating antique lighting wherever possible! Our massive dining room chandelier is from an antique market in Paris,' she adds.

9. Small wooden stools

(Image credit: Brad Ramsey Interiors / Rebecca Inspiro8 Photography )

If you're new to decorating with antiques or are simply looking for smaller pieces to add a characterful feature to your home, small wooden stools are a lovely addition in several rooms of the home and are enduringly popular.

'Small antique stools are good for all occasions and can add so much charm to a room; I love them in bedrooms and living room spaces,' says Thea.

They can be tricky to find in good condition, but if you see any on your thrifting trips, make sure to snap it up – it can be used as a side table in so many spaces. In this bathroom, a small wooden stool keeps decor and towels dry next to the bath.

From larger furniture pieces to the decor of certain eras and designs by makers in particular regions, 2025's antique trends offer a vast and varied selection of styles – and the perfect guide to the pieces you should look out for when thrifting this year.

Gisele Bündchen's entryway opens to a statement floating glass staircase – the architectural elements offer a new way to introduce modernity to your foyer

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 12:30:10 +0000

Everyone knows a 'modern home' when they see it, but it's much harder to describe the elements that go into this style. From glass to metal, to hard lines, to organic curves there are many different ideas of what constitutes the look. No such questions exist when it comes to Gisele Bündchen's foyer.

The model's Miami entryway idea embodies the quintessential contemporary home. Upon opening the door, guests are greeted by a floating glass staircase. It has gray stone steps that match the flat stone flooring that stretches across the open concept space towards the living room and kitchen. The shape of the staircase reveals a tiled wall full of different shades of gray. Rectangular lights above the entrance are reflected in the glass. Large windows on the back wall fill the room with light.

There's no denying that Bündchen's modern entryway is incredibly striking, and this was clearly the goal of the design. Nina Lichtenstein, Westchester-based interior designer states: 'An entryway is more than just a transitional space; it is the initial impression your home makes on guests. A well-staged entryway sets the tone for the entire house, reflecting your style and offering a warm welcome. Investing time and thought into staging your entryway can significantly enhance the appeal and functionality of your home. With the right accessories and a clear vision, you can transform this often-overlooked space into a captivating and welcoming entry point.'

(Image credit: Eric Igualada / ONE Sotheby's International Realty)

Lichtenstein continues, 'By reflecting the style and personality of your home, the entryway can create a cohesive design scheme, seamlessly connecting the entry with other living spaces.' Thus, by incorporating modern touches in her entryway, Bündchen signals the modern decor of her entire home. It's a bold statement of who you, and your home are.

What are the best ways to recreate Bündchen's clever signaling? According to Lichtenstein, it starts with entryway lighting. She tells H&G: 'Lighting is crucial in an entryway as it creates an inviting ambiance. A statement chandelier, pendant light, or elegant sconce can instantly elevate the space. Consider fixtures with unique designs or materials (twine, crystals, wood) that echo your home's overall aesthetic.' For instance, this home features rectangular modern lighting.

Decorating with art in the entryway is also incredibly important for setting the tone. In this home, the staircase speaks for itself, but you might want to style other pieces in a more bare bones space. 'Personalize your entryway with art and decorative accents,' says Lichtenstein. 'Whether it's a gallery wall of family photos, a piece of artwork, a vase of flowers, or decorative objects like geodes, sculptures, or plants, these elements add character and make the space feel like an extension of your home. Personalized artwork completed by the family or treasures collected from travels abroad can add a special touch.'

Shop the Modern Entryway Edit

Centerpiece

Clear Vase

This large vase is a simple and elegant way to integrate glass into your entryway. Add a single branch for an elevated, modern feel.

Porcelain

'Ear' Sculpture

What's more avant-garde than art? An abstract sculpture in your entryway is the perfect way to signal the modernity and artsiness of your home to visitors

Modern Kitchen Light

These modern lights are just like the ones in Bundchen's home, at an accessible price. They would look so chic hanging from an entryway ceiling

If you want to create a modern entryway like Gisele's but you don't have a floating glass staircase, you can create a similar brightening effect with a mirror. Lichtenstein suggests: 'Mirrors are versatile entryway staples. They not only make the space feel larger and brighter but also provide a last-minute check before you head out the door. Find a mirror with an eye-catching frame that complements your decor.'

First impressions are important, and therefore so are entryways. Gisele Bündchen proves the rule.

Josh Brolin's floor-to-ceiling living room shelving is the most beautiful – and architecturally interesting – design I've ever seen

jennifer.ebert@futurenet.com (Jennifer Ebert) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Simple, elegant, and with as much storage as possible was the mantra for actor Josh Brolin's living space, which showcases an exquisite example of bespoke joinery.

Designed by Pierce & Ward, the expert team behind Johnny Galecki, Dakota Johnson, and Emma Roberts's delightful homes, the dream duo wanted to not only maximize the living room storage but also make it a feature in its own right.

Without exquisite joinery, even the grandest room will be nothing more than a box. That’s what Bruce Hodgson, founder of architectural joinery specialist Artichoke, believes. ‘Beautifully crafted and conceived joinery can add drama to an interior, employing light and shade to lend depth, as well as framing openings and significant features,’ he says. ‘It can also play a vital role in manipulating proportions.

As we spend more time at home, we become more aware than ever of the need for space. 'Rooms that were once forgotten are being rejuvenated as tranquil spaces or multifunctional living zones,' says Simon Tcherniak, senior furniture designer at Neville Johnson. 'Homeowners are looking for dynamic spaces that allow them to highlight their decorative prowess as well as provide space to store essential items, such as glassware and serveware.'

A post shared by Pierce & Ward (@pierceandward)
A photo posted by on

This beautiful wall of bespoke joinery is hugely characterful and provides plenty of open and closed storage. In a conversation with the New York Times, designers Louisa Pierce and Emily Ward described Brolin's taste as a mix of 'nutty kaleidoscope' and 'Old World European busyness' – this quiet nook is the perfect example of this ethos. It's fun and playful, as all design should be. But it is also important to consider the practical elements too.

'Getting the configuration right is what makes or breaks the design and its functionality,' says Rachel Hutcheson, national retail manager at Sharps. 'A sensible place to start is by assessing your storage needs. Think about the volume of clothes and shoes that you have, whether you might need areas for books and artwork and how much space you might need in the future. You can combine hidden storage with open living room shelving to maximize space,' she adds.

Uniform-sized shelves are fine for libraries but less so for a home environment. When commissioning bespoke joinery, be sure to request a mix of heights to accommodate different sizes and shapes of tomes and objects. Go one step further and break up the shelves with a dedicated space for favorite pieces of art or sculpture; take this into consideration from the beginning to ensure your pieces have space to fit comfortably. If the shelves are deep enough, use them to display curios and items amassed from travels.

Whatever the size of your home, it's important to create a quiet living room corner that can serve as a retreat from the noise of daily life.

Shop the look

Bespoke storage simply cannot be bought of the shelf. It requires careful planning and is often expensive – though very much worth the investment. The simplest way to replicate this look, especially if you already have a dedicated open storage area, is with decorative accessories. Below I've listed a curated selection of my favorite designs.

Modern check design

Reimagine Discovery Small Checkered Vase

This statement check design is very much on-trend for 2024 and 2025, but I expect this classic look will endure forever. It is just so undeniably eye-catching.

Editor's choice

Ruffled Marble Bowl

I adore unusually-shaped objects and vases. They add such a decorate delight to bare shelves and tables. This gorgeous marble bowl is a surefire crowdpleaser and one that will last forever.

On-trend color

Storied Home Ceramic Vase

I have an obsession with buying beautiful, decorative vases for display. They also make the perfect birthday and Holiday gifts – and this one is already on the way to me.

RuPaul's monochromatic home exterior is trendy yet timeless – designers say it's the perfect fit for most architectural styles

hannah.ziegler@futurenet.com (Hannah Ziegler) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0000

When in doubt, you can't go wrong with a black-and-white color palette. While other hues fall in and out of fashion, these contrasting colors remain in the design zeitgeist thanks to their versatility and sophistication.

There are countless ways to implement a monochrome color scheme inside the home, but we were recently inspired by RuPaul's take on the combo with his house's exterior paint color.

The grand home's monochromatic facade features a primarily white exterior, with black roof tiles, a black-painted gazebo, and black window panes, all of which add some dark glamour to the otherwise bright home.

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According to experts, decorating with black and white requires balance, as this can determine the ambiance that will greet guests upon their arrival.

'Black and white homes evoke a sense of refinement and elegance, but they can also create an inviting and grounded atmosphere,' Westchester-based designer Nina Lichtenstein states. 'A predominantly white exterior with black accents can feel fresh, airy, and expansive, while a home with more black exteriors might offer a dramatic, modern edge, especially when paired with natural elements like wood or stone. The contrast brings a level of crispness to a home that feels intentional, confident, and timeless.'

She continues, 'The combination of black and white can also create a sense of balance. For instance, white surfaces reflect light, making a home seem bright and welcoming, while black areas add depth and structure. This interplay can give even simple architectural forms a striking presence.'

(Image credit: CM Natural Designs)

Black and white is suitable for a variety of architectural styles, from colonial and Georgian to minimalist. There are a few designs, however, that Lichtenstein says the scheme works particularly well for.

'For more ornate homes like Victorians, a black-and-white scheme can bring out the intricate details in the trim, railings, and spindles,' she says. 'Black used selectively to highlight decorative features against a white backdrop creates a high-contrast aesthetic that both honors the craftsmanship and makes it feel current.'

Alternatively, it works for a more rustic style that is popular among city dwellers and those in more rural locations. 'The black-and-white palette has become a hallmark of the modern farmhouse style,' Lichtenstein says. 'Typically, white siding is paired with black window frames, doors, and rooflines, offering a clean, rustic yet polished look that suits both suburban and rural settings. This pairing allows traditional farmhouse shapes to feel updated and contemporary.'

We would be remiss to not mention black and white's place in the mid-century modern scheme, which Lichtenstein recommends for its timeless qualities.

'Mid-century homes often incorporate black and white in ways that enhance their clean, horizontal lines and large glass surfaces,' she says. 'Black can be used to highlight angular rooflines, while white walls keep the overall aesthetic open and unobtrusive, drawing attention to architectural details.'

Domino Half-Dipped Stoneware Salad Plate

Crafted in Portugal, this piece combines iconic style with long-lasting versatility.

Domino Half-Dipped Stoneware Mug

Nothing elevates our morning coffee routine quite like this bold twist on the classic color palette.

Pop Art Enamel Serving Set

Made from durable, food-safe enamel-coated aluminum, these lightweight servers merge practicality with a Pop Art-inspired twist.

For a more inviting appearance, we would recommend utilizing RuPaul's strategy of a primarily white home exterior, with bold black accents on doors, windows, and balconies.

This designer's Amazon storefront is the answer to all my modern rustic decor needs – here's what I'm shopping for my own home

Charlotte Olby — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 16:30:30 +0000

Designer Drew Michael Scott is best loved for his eclectic, transitional, and attainable style. Sharing his home's journey and DIY projects over on Instagram and TikTok (@lonefoxhome), I've long admired Drew's warm, cozy, and modern rustic approach to interior design.

After closely following the renovation of his 1920s Spanish Revival home in Los Angeles I became obsessed with his mix of second-hand finds, IKEA hacks, and clever upcycling techniques to help him create the home of his dreams without a hefty price tag.

So, when I came across the Lone Fox Home Amazon Store Front, where Drew curates home recommendations ranging from decor to furniture to hardware and rugs, I got pretty excited. As someone in the throws of remodeling, finding unique yet budget-friendly fixtures, fittings, and furnishings for my home is a top priority.

I've scoured Drew's storefront to find the best deals on his handpicked wishlist of Amazon home decor.

Shop Drew Michael Scott's (a.k.a Lone Fox) Amazon Store Front

Loloi Chris Loves Julia x Francis Spa/Granite 8'-6"

At just over 60% off, this checkerboard rug is a standout deal. Inspired by the diamond patterns of traditional tilework and parquet flooring, this rug has been hand-tufted in 100% wool pile in India.

KOUBOO La Jolla Rattan Round Waste Basket

A chic waste bin that doesn't spoil your carefully curated scheme is hard to find. This rattan rounded basket, complete with a lid and plastic liner, will sit prettily in the corner of your office, bedroom, or bathroom.

Lush Decor Reyna Ruffle Window Curtain Panel Set

Add some romantic texture to your window treatment ideas with these ruffle-edged curtains. These soft flowy curtains not only provide privacy, but help to filter sunlight, allowing a soft glow to fill the room.

Linon Natural Bentwood Woven Rattan Seat Hank Bench

Drew recommends placing this solid wood rattan bench at the foot of the bed styled with a throw blanket for a handy resting spot in the bedroom.

Kate and Laurel Brazelton Rounded Rectangle Ornate Traditional Mirror

With a traditional, antique look, this Kate and Laurel mirror measures at 26.75 inches tall by 19.75 inches wide, providing a decadent statement for your wall.

Colored Goblet Wine Glasses Set of 6

With hundreds of 5* ratings, these colored wine glasses are a popular Amazon find. Made by artisans using a meticulous hand-blowing technique, each glass is unique for a colorful display.

Loloi II Loren Brick/Midnight 3'-6" x 5'-6" Accent Rug

Loloi rugs are popular with interior designers for good reason. This Moroccan and vintage-inspired, low-pile, soft, durable, and easy to clean rug is great for high traffic areas.

Olive Tree Artificial 7 Feet Tall Faux Decorative Tree

Faux trees are a great way to add greenery into your space without the upkeep. This faux olive tree stands at 7 feet tall and will provide lush, vibrant foliage that never wilts or fades.

Adesso 4050-15 Lexington 22.5" Table Lamp

Drew loves mixing old and new in his home and this Adesso lamp feels super antiqued – without the price tag. Featuring a dark walnut wood body and an alabaster frosted glass shade.

Bloomingville, Black Decorative Resin Double Taper Candle Holder

Modern yet slightly rustic decor pieces are hard to come by. But this twisty taper candle holder by Bloomingville manages to nail the brief. I'm getting 2 while it's on sale.

Vintage Rustic Farmhouse Still Life Wall Art

To inspire a warm and cozy living room scheme, Drew put together a storefront of vintage-inspired rustic artwork including this farmhouse piece that will work lovely alone or in a group.

Swivel Accent Chair Modern Barrel Armchair with Wood Base

A cozy accent chair is a mainstay in any room designed for relaxing. The elegant 360° swivel base is made from a warm wood while the curved back lends a modern style.

Amazon has so many products for the home, ranging from the most practical buys to beautiful decor pieces, so it can be a minefield to edit it all down into one budget-friendly basket. Luckily, Lone Fox has done all the work for us – and some pieces are even on sale. What will you be shopping?

Looking for the best kitchen tiles for your remodel? These 13 stores are interior designers' go-to suppliers

Charlotte Olby — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Decorator's Address Book is a monthly series in which our Interior Design team finds out where designers like to browse and shop for their projects. Each edition focuses on a different element of home decor to bring you the best expert-recommended stores.

From shiny zellige to retro patterned tiles, sleek modern slabs to handmade mosaics, the options for kitchen tile ideas are endless and pretty overwhelming. So to help you narrow down your search, this month's Decorators Address Book is dedicated to helping you find the very best tile suppliers for your kitchen walls or floors.

Serving as a practical wall covering to prevent splashes and spills from ruining your walls, tile can also introduce color, texture, and print into your kitchen in a way that no other materials can so it is important to not see your tile choice as an afterthought. Speaking to expert interior designers who do this for a living, we've asked them to share their favorite tile stores and suppliers with us to create a bank of inspiration and recommendations for you.

1. Zia Tile

(Image credit: A.Naber Design)

Abbie Naber, owner and principal designer of A.Naber Design

'We love using Zia Tile in our kitchen designs for a multitude of reasons. First off, they have such a great variety of offerings and selections fit for every type of kitchen imaginable. I love the versatility of their neutral zellige tiles as they are great options that stand the test of time. Lastly, Zia's customer service is exceptional and they're based in California where we are making them a very sensible company to partner with.'

Luis Carmona, owner and interior designer at VERDE Interior Design

'Zia Tile is one of our favorite places to shop for tile. Our design aesthetic is more minimal with the use of muted tones and Zia Tile fits our design profile to the T. They have a great assortment of indoor and outdoor tile that has worked great in bathrooms and kitchens alike. More than the neutral color palette and more muted tones, we love that their tile has a slight matte texture to it which adds to the versatility of the tile. It makes it perfect for use in outdoor kitchens and fireplaces.'

2. Fireclay Tiles

(Image credit: Dmar Interiors)

Mollie Ranize, lead interior designer and founder of Dmar Interiors

'As a designer, tile is one of the most fun (and overwhelming) surfaces to shop for because the options are endless. One of our favorite vendors is Fireclay Tile. We love them because they have so many specialty products like these hand-painted tiles that we used in this Spanish Revival home in Santa Barbara. It's so unique not only in its color but texture. They also have every color, size, and shape of tile you could dream up, which makes sourcing for various types of projects that much better.'

Rebecca Ward, principal designer and founder of R Ward Design

'When I need something custom, I turn to Fireclay. The fact that they’re a B Corp and very sustainably focused, makes me feel good about specifying their products. They offer a refreshing variety of shapes and sizes, and their custom color program has proven incredibly helpful when I just had to have the kitchen tiles to match the paint color of the front door for my client.'

(Image credit: Maredi Design)

Dijana Savic-Jambert, co-founder of Maredi Design

'Our absolute go-to is definitely Fireclay Tile. They are hard to beat for so many reasons, most of all they have really outstanding and quality products that are durable and timeless. But immediately after that is the fact that they are a B-Corp company, something that is extremely important to us when we vet the vendors we choose to work with. Additionally, their products are created thanks to a lot of sustainable practices, including being handmade in the US and offering product transparency disclosures, including Health Product Declarations (HPD). These types of disclosures and transparency labels have never been more necessary in the design world where greenwashing is a common practice among so many brands. It’s companies like Fireclay that really stand out.'

3. Akdo

(Image credit: Akdo)

Young Huh, founder of Young Huh Interior Design

'With tile, I love patterns and patterns that you can play with. I feel like the Kaleidoscope collection from Akdo is for designers to use and manipulate in their own way. Black and white is so timeless, it’s modern and chic and everybody loves it.'

4. Tile Bar

(Image credit: R Ward Design)

Rebecca Ward, principal designer and founder of R Ward Design

'Tile has always impressed me with the breadth of application and style it can offer to interiors. It’s a timeless material that can truly define a space. One of my go-to suppliers when looking for tile is tilebar.com. Not only do they offer a wide variety of both staple and unique tiles, but their customer service is also excellent. They’re quick to respond, and over the years, I’ve curated a lovely relationship with them.'

5. Ann Sacks

Andrea Lackie, founder of Andrea Lackie Design

'Ann Sacks has a wonderful range of tiles to choose from. Whether you are looking for natural stone, unique patterned ceramic tile, or durable porcelain tile, you can find it all at Ann Sacks. Plus they have great customer service!'

6. The Tile Shop

(Image credit: Renovation Sells / Fio Creative)

Briana Gershenzon, partner and chief of design at Renovation Sells

'We love The Tile Shop because of its readily available classic options and featured designer collections, each with a distinct style. One of our go-to’s for kitchen backsplashes is Royal Satin marble. Try it in a 2” x 8” size for an updated proportion.'

7. Nemo Tile + Stone

(Image credit: Studio Y&A / Photography Will Ellis)

Arianna Rosenberg, co-founder of Studio Y&A

'We love this elongated subway tile [seen above] from Nemo Tile + Stone. The Bond line in colorway Cotton has the right amount of texture and depth while keeping the space looking neat. White can get boring, but the Cotton when you look up close has granularity in the glaze and the glossy finish leaves a clean appearance. Sometimes we get creative stacking the tiles in different directions, but for this project, we choose to offset them in the standard brick pattern. We love working with Nemo, their products are always durable, well stocked and you can't beat the price point.'

8. Floor & Decor

(Image credit: Renovation Sells / Fio Creative)

Briana Gershenzon, partner and chief of design at Renovation Sells

'Floor & Decor is our best-kept secret for kitchen tile because they carry a range of in-stock natural stone options at reasonable price points. If natural stone is out of budget for your countertops, use it on your backsplash instead to get the same effect and variation in color. Statuario marble tile is super impactful with its distinct gray vein. Pair it with a leathered Absolute Black granite countertop to instantly elevate your kitchen.'

8. Heath Ceramics

(Image credit: Sarah Jefferys Architecture / Photography Morten Smidt)

Sarah Jefferys, principal at Sarah Jefferys Architecture + Interiors

'Quality tile instantly elevates the overall look and perceived value of your home. We turn to our trusted brands like Heath Ceramics and Poham Tile for their variety of tiles from sophisticated elegance to vibrant, playful tile and color options. These brands also offer custom configurations, allowing us to be creative with geometric designs.'

9. Daltile

Luis Carmona, owner and interior designer at VERDE Interior Design

'Daltile is one of our go-to resources for tile. They are accessible with a showroom in the Design District of Dallas and have a wide selection of both indoor and outdoor tiles in all price ranges. We work on a lot of bathroom and kitchen remodels so having a reliable and efficient tile partner is key. Lately, we have been using their large-scale tile in our bathroom projects for both flooring and walls. We love the clean aesthetic of a large tile and the client loves the lack of grout lines that a larger tile provides. It gives the space a bit more of a cleaner look with less hassle of cleaning that stubborn grout.'

10. Bedrosians

(Image credit: Renovation Sells / Fio Creative)

Briana Gershenzon, partner and chief of design at Renovation Sells

'The quality of the tile from Bedrosians speaks for itself! With their variety of color options and coordinating components like tile liners and matching mosaics, it’s easy to curate your design scheme. Pair the 2.5” x 5” Marin Ceramic Tile in Aloe Green Gloss with the coordinating liner for a refined and fresh look.'

11. Villa Lagoon

(Image credit: Plaster & Patina / Photography Amy Bartlam )

Alexandra Azart, founder and designer at Plaster & Patina

'We love Villa Lagoon! They have a huge number of patterns you can choose from and a customizable platform where you can utilize nearly any color combination to make this tile your own!'

12. Decorative Materials

(Image credit: Kristin Dittmar Design / Brooke Casillas )

Kristin Dittmar, founder of Kristin Dittmar Design

'I have a deep appreciation for natural stones; there's something truly special about using products crafted by Mother Nature herself. When it comes to sourcing, I love working with Decorative Materials in Basalt, Colorado. Their exceptional selection and knowledgeable team make the process effortless, and they truly understand how to highlight the beauty of these timeless materials.'

13. Clé tiles

(Image credit: Bethany Adams Interiors / JL Jordan Photography )

Bethany Adams, NCIDQ certified interior designer and founder of Bethany Adams Interiors

'I love Clé Tile for kitchen tile, both for floor and wall. Their reproduction Belgian reproduction terracotta tiles are so luxurious underfoot - especially when paired with underfloor heating - you won't believe they aren't the real thing. I also love their gorgeous assortment of zellige for backsplashes. I used them in this kitchen, seen above, 6 years ago, and they're so chic and timeless you'd never know it wasn't installed 6 months ago!'

Whether you're planning an entire countertop-to-ceiling tile hanging or a small backsplash, these tile recommendations from the experts are sure to point you in the right direction. After all, it's an expensive purchase to get wrong, so starting with these 5* suppliers should save you stress and money.

Diane Keaton pairs colorful mosaics and architectural details to set the perfect first impression for her Spanish revival home – estate experts decode its charm

megan.slack@futurenet.com (Megan Slack) — Sun, 29 Sep 2024 04:00:00 +0000

Celebrity design enthusiasts may already be all too familiar with the work of Stephen Shadley, the entrusted figure behind Jennifer Aniston, Ryan Murphy, and David Miller's homes.

Arguably, his most unmistakable work, however, comes in the form of Diane Keaton's former home: a Spanish revival structure nestled in Beverly Hills – where every space upholds a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic. Naturally, therefore, the entrance space follows suit.

Designed to set a precedent for the interior design style behind her black front door, the entrance space exhibits a Spanish revival aesthetic through the curved architectural details, warm outdoor lighting, mosaics, and sculptural accessories.

Despite the statement architecture and intricate decorating details, Keaton's space isn't overwhelming. Instead, her use of soft neutrals (seen through the limewashed wall and gray stone flooring) keeps the space balanced and allows the Spanish-style accessories to take center stage.

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According to Ryan Fitzgerald, a real estate expert from Raleigh Realty, the secret to achieving a Keaton-inspired exterior space is found in the combination of curved detailing and tiled flooring – so if your home boasts these features, this is your cue to enhance them.

'In my professional opinion, to nail the Spanish Revival look, it's important to pay attention to architectural details. Arched doorways, stucco walls, and decorative tiles are all hallmarks of this style that I've seen make a significant impact,' he says.

Granted, we can't all enjoy an entrance space as expansive as Keaton's. However, as Fitzgerald explains, there are ways to bring the design trend to life in more conventional spaces, including your living room and kitchen.

'From my experience, textures play a big role in creating the cozy, inviting feel of Spanish Revival interiors. I often suggest using rich fabrics like velvet or brocade for upholstery and incorporating woven textiles such as rugs or throw pillows to add depth and visual interest to the space,' he says.

'I believe the Spanish Revival trend is all about creating a space that feels both elegant and lived-in, with a touch of Old World charm. By focusing on warm colors, natural materials, and carefully chosen antiques and accents, anyone can bring a bit of Spanish-inspired magic into their home.'

For a beautiful starting point, we've handpicked these pieces to bring the look to life in any room. The terracotta urn is particularly inspired by the actress's space.

Terracotta Urn

Willa Clay Velvet Pillow

Medium Dark Wood Bowl

(Image credit: Lisa Romerin)

Lastly, when it comes to inspiration direct from Keaton, it is wise to decorate with antiques, much like the stone mosaic vase seen by the actress's door.

'Antiques are an essential element that I've seen bring Spanish Revival interiors to life. From my point of view, mixing vintage pieces with modern elements creates a dynamic and interesting space,' Fitzgerald adds.

'I also often recommend clients look for wrought iron accents, such as light fixtures [much like Keaton's dramatic piece], as well as antique wooden furniture with intricate carvings or inlays.'

I don't like to copy designs, but these 4 beautiful kitchens are filled with inspiration you will want to recreate

Molly Malsom — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:30:20 +0000

Designing a kitchen is never easy. Balancing function and style can be a tricky task, which is why we so often turn to spaces created by interior designers to gather some much-needed inspiration. And while we never advocate copying their kitchen designs, there are certainly lots of cues we can take from them.

If there's anything we can learn from interior designers' kitchen ideas, it's that long-lasting schemes are the anti-trend to embrace. But coming up with timeless kitchen design elements for your kitchen can sometimes feel impossible, especially if you don't have an experienced or expert eye.

Here at H&G, we're no strangers to beautiful kitchen designs – in fact, we see them everyday. But of all the enduring designs we've come across, we've found a few that you're probably going to want to recreate in your own home. We certainly do!

A 'refined, collected' kitchen by Becca Interiors

(Image credit: Becca Interiors/Rikki Snyder photography)

The kitchen in this Colonial home required a total renovation to create a tasteful and timeless heart of the home. Gutting the entire space allowed the designers to reimagine the space, introducing a warm neutral palette, a statement island, and feature details throughout.

'I would describe the style of this kitchen as refined, collected, and expansive,' says Becca Casey, owner and principal designer at Becca Interiors. The warm neutral cabinets offer a subtle contrast against the brighter white of the statement range hood, while a mix of Shaker cabinets and glass-fronted cabinet doors add enduring appeal to the space.

(Image credit: Becca Interiors/Rikki Snyder photography)

'We sought to connect the kitchen with the adjoining breakfast area and family room. With the kitchen acting like the true heart of the home, we intended to create a harmonious relationship between each space allowing you to flow freely from one room to another,' she explains.

The curved profile of the kitchen island instantly adds a softer finish to the space, while hints of black throughout the different zones of the kitchen create a common thread, from the black hue used on the island's base, the lighting, and the tiles, while gold hardware adds a warmer finish to the scheme.

(Image credit: Becca Interiors/Rikki Snyder photography)

There are several standout features in the space, but for Becca, the center of the space has a true wow factor. 'The station lantern pendants are show-stopping, and the design of the island is uniquely grounding.'

To ensure the sink area feels cohesive with the rest of the design, a gold faucet has been chosen, and black tiles add depth and textural interest to the far wall. This area has also been utilized to display decor that is both aesthetic and functional, finishing off the scheme perfectly.

Malibu Woven Stool

The striking contrast of this woven bar stool adds interest and a natural, organic element to every kitchen scheme.

Henry Industrial Hanging Light

A statement pendant light is the perfect finishing touch above your island. This one is a blend of industrial and classic style.

Queta Terracotta Vase

Every kitchen needs eye-catching decor. This rustic vase is perfect for displaying flowers, tall branches, or just by itself.

Drew Michael Scott's Spanish Revival kitchen

(Image credit: Drew Michael Scott)

You don't need a sprawling kitchen to create a scheme that feels luxurious and elevated, and this kitchen is proof. With beautiful materials, timeless colors, and a curated yet lived-in style, it's a design with visual impact.

'My home is a 1920s Spanish revival, so I knew I wanted to carry that tone into the kitchen and infuse the space with that character and charm,' says Drew Michael Scott, a.k.a Lone Fox, of his design.

'I wanted to create an atmosphere that felt warm, lived-in, and accurate to the period of the home. I plastered the walls and ceiling to have a stone-like finish with Meoded's Tonachino Firenze and mixed metals throughout the space to create a more gothic-style Spanish feel,' he adds.

(Image credit: Drew Michael Scott)

The kitchen has been expertly decorated with collected vintage and antique pieces, which has aided an authentic period feel to the scheme. One area in particular that infuses that historic charm is the finishes chosen.

'I love the two antique sconces and I knew copper (as seen on the dishwasher and cabinet pulls) would bring a lot of warmth to the kitchen. I love the juxtaposition of these materials against the marble countertops,' says Drew.

To bring in a moodier feel, typical of Spanish revival interiors, the color palette was key. While the walls have been kept a warm neutral hue, dark brown cabinetry has been chosen, which is one of this year's most coveted kitchen color trends.

(Image credit: Drew Michael Scott)

'There are a few features that really stand out to me. The cabinets were brand new so I decided to keep them, but paint them Benjamin Moore's Van Buren Brown, which felt unexpected,' he explains.

To keep the kitchen from feeling too dark, contrast has been added through the floor tiles and countertops – the latter becoming the focal point of the design. 'I wanted the countertops to be the main focal point, and I love the grain pattern in the Calacatta Monet slab.'

It was important that nothing in the kitchen felt too perfect or new, so Drew chose designs and finishes that had an aged, vintage feel, which is something he has achieved through not only the floor tiles but the decor too. 'I laid the Cle floor tiles in a traditional offset brick pattern with piped-in grouting to give a hand-done look, and I love the aged, authentic look they give off,' he adds.

Antique Copper Lantern Pendant

Antique lighting adds so much interest to kitchens. This lantern pendant is from the late 1800s and is in a style similar to Drew's.

Odin Stoneware Crock

A crock offers a stylish way to store your utensils on your countertops. This stoneware crock is a timeless option.

Eliko Rugs Vintage Rug

A rug not only ground a room, but in a kitchen, it's a great way to add warmth, a sense of coziness, and a pop of color.

A Tudor Revival kitchen by Studio Dearborn

(Image credit: Studio Dearborn)

When you think of Tudor Revival properties, you likely picture dark interiors. But in this kitchen, which is at the heart of a 1920s home in the period style, a lighter take on the classic look has been achieved.

'We wanted the kitchen to stay true to the personality of the home, but much brighter than a typical Tudor room. We also wanted to inject some reflective surfaces such as the bright brass fixtures and mirrored backsplash, and have multiple displays of heirlooms,' says Sarah Robertson, founder and principal designer at Studio Dearborn.

(Image credit: Studio Dearborn)

'We wanted to create a bright and airy atmosphere that felt comfortable holding cherished items that had been collected over generations and felt perfectly in tune with the home's substantial Tudor presence,' she explains.

White kitchen cabinets instantly brighten the overall look and feel of the scheme, while black hexagonal floor tiles nod back to the moody colors typical of a Tudor home. But it's the windows that truly pay homage to the property's heritage.

'We loved the process of designing two new leaded glass windows for the kitchen, which perfectly matched the other original leaded glass in the home,' says Sarah. Not only do they tie the kitchen in with the rest of the home, but they create an authentic feel to the kitchen that has a more unexpected design.

(Image credit: Studio Dearborn)

To reintroduce darker hues, a bolder approach was taken on the island, creating a beautiful contrast with the white cabinets. 'We also spent a lot of time designing the island, which is elevated slightly to create a feeling of lightness, and has brass legs we custom-designed, that reflect all that sunshine,' says Sarah.

It's the decorative details in the kitchen that give it a cozy, lived-in feel to balance the elevated, elegant design. Colorful runners on the floor infuse warmer hues to the space, vases of seasonal branches bring the outside in, and black light fixtures tie in with the window details.

'But my favorite element has to be the china hutch, where the client keeps all her heirloom china on display. I could stare at that cabinet all day long,' Sarah adds. As well as the hutch filled with china, throughout the kitchen, blue and white plates have been displayed on the walls, creating a truly cohesive and striking kitchen design.

Cream Linen Peach Blossom Branch

Fresh flowers aren't for everyone. These statement branches are a beautiful alternative to display in a vase.

Hardy Upholstered Backless Counter Stool

Sarah added neutral upholstered counter stools to lighten up the island area, and these are a really similar option.

Ariannie Steel Flush Mounted Sconce

Lighting is key in kitchens, and this wall light has the same feel as those in the Studio Dearborn kitchen above the window.

A Georgian-inspired kitchen by Marie Flanigan

(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors/Julie Soefer)

Over the past year, kitchen trends have embraced an old-meets-new look, and this kitchen perfectly blends traditional style with more modern features. 'For this project, the residence isn't historic, but the original architect infused it with classic Georgian elements,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan, who designed the space.

Natural light was a key factor during the redesign. 'The homeowners prioritized creating a space that feels both open and inviting. With abundant natural light flooding the room, we carefully chose a paint color that would look beautiful throughout the day,' she explains.

'We also incorporated natural elements that harmonize with the stunning picture windows in the breakfast nook and near the sink, enhancing the connection between indoors and out.'

(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors/Julie Soefer)

The result is a beautiful, timeless scheme, but it was just as important to create a functional space for the family's ever-evolving needs. 'We reimagined the kitchen to maximize counter space and storage while ensuring it felt timeless for a busy family of four,' says Marie.

'Our goal was to honor the architecture while adding a touch of Southern flair to make it less traditional. The result is a space that feels both authentic to its Dallas roots and beautifully functional,' she explains.

A blend of statement features, elevated finishes, and subtle contrasts make the kitchen feel unique. And it's the dark kitchen island that catches your eye as you walk into the room.

(Image credit: Marie Flanigan Interiors/Julie Soefer)

'The oversized island, featuring a stunning Rosso Levanto marble with a polished finish and fluted edge, adds a bold, unexpected detail to the kitchen. The wood, stained rather than painted, brings depth and warmth to the predominantly light space, creating a dynamic contrast.'

The carefully considered finishes tie the scheme together. From the shelving to the lighting to the kitchen hardware, brass carries a common theme throughout the space. 'Brass hardware further enhances the richness of the wood, while a strategically placed sink near the range adds functionality to this beautifully designed centerpiece,' says Marie.

Carneros Outdoor Milk Glass Pendant

Bass is the finish of choice in the kitchen by Marie Flanigan Interiors. This pendant light is perfect for hanging above an island.

Round Oak Bread Board

Every kitchen should have a stylish breadboard on the countertops. Not only is it easy to access, but it forms the perfect kitchen decor, too.

Old Havana Cake Stand

In this kitchen, a pedestal-style cake stand has been used instead of a traditional fruit bowl and displayed on the kitchen island.

All of these spaces have one thing in common – they're truly timeless with their own unique appeal. So, whether you're obsessed with marble countertops or needed ideas for balancing light and dark, each of these spaces have something we're dying to recreate!

Professional Chef Jason Atherton's home celebrates calm colors that flow seamlessly and highlight his timeless architecture

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Michelin-star-winning Chef Jason Atherton is known for his award-winning restaurants around the world. Thus, the redesign of his home needed to balance his creativity and adventurousness with his busy family life. The result is a masterful equilibrium between modern glamor and cozy, lived-in style.

Atherton instinctively knew there was no one to execute his modern decorating vision like Dale Atkinson, frequent collaborator and founder of Rosendale Design. Atkinson tells Homes & Gardens: 'The design process was actually quite smooth as I have worked with Jason and his wife, Irha, for many years so we have a great synergy. Over the years, I have designed a considerable number of his restaurants in the UK and abroad, so I understand what he is after and what he likes. I was very humbled when I was asked to design their family home as that, to me, shows the greatest trust.'

He continues: 'We started the process by making a mood board and material palettes for each room and then streamlining ideas. We also produced a few realistic 3D renders, so they knew exactly what the spaces would look like, which tends to give the clients confidence as they can see what it looks like ahead of building it.'

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

When asked about the interior design style of the space, Atkinson says: 'The best way I can describe the style is Timeless Contemporary but with a sympathetic eye on the existing architecture.' He says that the upgrades he made to the space were about bringing Atherton's family's personality and flair into the home. Atkinson states: 'It was originally done by a local developer; however, it was very bland and safe. Essentially, it was a procession of white lifeless boxes. Between the architecture and the family’s extensive art collection I sought to create a bridge, bringing both together.'

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

Obviously, since Atherton is a professional chef, the kitchen design was of utmost importance in this home. 'Not only did it need to match the existing standards of a Michelin-starred chef, but it also needed to function as space in which the family could congregate and bond,' says Atkinson. 'This area was very much seen as the beating heart of the house so we installed a large booth style bench around the dining table so one can linger and spend time relaxing. It worked well as the 3 girls quite happily congregate and Jason and Irha can spend time with them.'

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

The most stand out feature? Atherton's specially chosen kitchen island. Atkinson says, 'Jason did add one main flourish, he wanted a professional grade Molteni- France island unit that weighed close to a ton, so we had to have the floor beams strengthened.'

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

The artful balance of glamor and lived-in feel is carefully achieved through expertly decorating with neutrals. 'Throughout the house we used a calm colour palette but one that could flow from space to space. This was premeditated as we wanted to let the artwork, furniture and accessories pop and give the various spaces a sense of energy and character,' Atkinson tells H&G.

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

This calming palette is especially highlighted by warming architectural elements, like this charming reading nook. Though there is a focus on contemporary finishes, Atkinson's design doesn't make the pitfall of turning a modern home too cold.

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

However, the commitment to cohesion didn't stop Atkinson from bringing fun and whimsy into the design. He states: 'One room where we did break away from the calm palettes was Irha’s dressing room, where we used pink as the main color and employed some De Gournay wallpaper in her Powder Room which really helps to elevate the space.'

(Image credit: Rosendale Design)

Shop The Look

Recreate the scheme with an artful combination of modern touches and classic furnishings. This edit is inspired by Atherton's living room idea featuring a gorgeous clean-lined sofa from CB2, grounding chocolate brown pillows from Wayfair, and these rounded silver candlesticks from NET-A-PORTER to add a modern edge.

Modern

Gray Sofa

This stylish gray sofa has clean lines and a cool color for an exceptionally modern feel

Boucle

Chocolate Throw Pillow

This set of 2 chocolate colored throw pillows brings texture to a neutral color scheme

Unique

Silver-Tone Candlesticks

These stylish rounded candlesticks add an instant atmosphere of contemporary luxury to any space

If you are hoping to recreate the scheme, start with a focus on cohesion. What are elements of color, shape, or pattern that you can repeat in ever space in your home? This idea is called the 'Red Thread Theory' and it's about creating a seamless connection between different spaces in the house. The beautiful thing about this technique is that it can be used in any home, no matter the style.

Beautiful homes like Jason Atherton's are a reminder that any style can be timeless with the right attention to detail.

Designer Drew Michael Scott (a.k.a Lone Fox) on his ever-evolving style, his viral DIY videos, and his dreams of working with Lana Del Rey

Hebe Hatton — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:30:00 +0000

I've followed Lone Fox on Instagram for years. Pre-working at H&G even. I think I might have even mentioned him in my interview when asked about which interior designers inspired me. That was true – his videos both on YouTube and on Instagram did very much inspire me and helped with my own apartment reno which I slowly mostly DIYed over the various lockdowns of 2020.

If you haven't come across Lone Fox's videos, designer Drew Michael Scott is the LA-based designer behind them. It's the fastest-growing YouTube channel in the home space. Through his DIY projects, home renovations, and unique design perspective, Drew is changing how we approach design, and both inspires and educates his community on how to curate beautiful homes regardless of budget.

What drew me to Drew's content is that, unlike other DIY accounts I was following at the time, it wasn't all about the quick, cheap overhauls you can do in an hour, that look impressive in an Instagram reel but in reality don't hold up or date in a few months. Rather, Drew's posts were about creating timeless, considered spaces, by customizing pieces and updating one-off finds.

His interior design style is that incredibly covetable transitional layered look – somehow both traditional and current. Here I asked Drew about how his jounrey in interior design started, how he defines his style, and what's next for Lone Fox.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'My design style is constantly evolving, but at its core, I would say it's eclectic with a mix of old and new. I try to stick with design trends that emulate my personal style rather than incorporating pieces just because they are “trendy.” I love mixing contrasting elements to create juxtaposition because it really makes a space so much more interesting. You’ll find a mix of feminine and masculine elements within almost every room I create.'

How did it all begin?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'When I graduated college, my [YouTube] channel was producing just enough revenue to pay for my rent in a shared 600 square foot studio. I got a part-time job at West Elm being a sales associate on the floor.'

'Only a month after being hired I was placed into an in-home stylist position where I went to customers' homes and helped them choose pieces from our online catalog. Looking back, I know my boss at the time, (Rachel, whom I still love!) saw something in me. Over the next year, my schedule consisted of working 30 hours a week at West Elm on Beverly, taking a full semester of classes, filming YouTube videos every night and editing through the morning to maintain my posting schedule.'

'I slowly started to post about interior design and DIYs on my fashion channel and the videos gained a lot of traction. I noticed the DIY videos were outperforming my fashion videos by hundreds of thousands of views, and it sparked something in me that the fashion videos didn’t…CREATIVITY.'

'I’m not saying that styling clothing can’t be creative, but when you think about men’s fashion, creativity can only go so far. I never really loved sewing or creating clothing, so I was primarily just styling myself, and that didn’t fulfill me the same way design content did (and still does). Lone Fox was created on March 7th of 2018, and I never would have imagined my channel would grow to be as big as it is today. It’s a dream!'

What kind of work do you take on?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'I have been really focused on my house recently, but in the past, I’ve helped several friends and family members redo their spaces. I am so focused on my own home and my Channel that I haven’t taken on much client work as of late, but I do have two special clients I’ve been working with on spaces in their homes that will be coming out soon!'

What’s your favorite project you have worked on?

(Image credit: Michael Clifford Photography )

'Two years ago, I purchased a 1920s Spanish Revival home in Los Angeles that I have been slowly renovating and designing from top to bottom.'

'The building is actually a duplex that I’ve been turning into a single-family home, and I have really enjoyed completing the upstairs portion of my home, which includes the main living areas such as the kitchen, dining room and main bedrooms. I hope to have the upstairs fully completed by January 2025 and then start on the lower portion of the house.

Who inspired you when you started, and who inspires you now?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'When I first started, Joanna Gaines was a huge inspiration for me. I first saw her show when interior design wasn’t a huge thing on social media, and I created DIY projects that emulated the look of some of the projects on TV and shared them on my YouTube channel.'

'The empire she has built beyond design is so impressive and I really admire how she has extended her brand into so many areas of lifestyle. Nowadays, I get a lot of my inspiration through a mix of social media, travel, and design books. I find old design books to be such a great source of inspiration because the imagery hasn’t been published online.'

Who are your dream clients?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'Beyonce or Lana Del Rey. You have to dream big, right?!'

What’s next?

(Image credit: Courtesy of Drew Michael Scott)

'I have a few exciting projects in the works that I can’t speak about just yet, but I’m really excited about them and they've been a huge labor of love.'

Diane Keaton's Spanish-style home office is a masterclass in architectural elegance – it's defined by a dramatic feature

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Diane Keaton's fashion became famous largely because of its striking shapes - her home follows suit. Acclaimed interior designer Stephen Shadley designed her California home office in a converted breezeway, and it's defined by bold, eye-catching archways.

The actress's home office blends its outdoor history with colorful interior design. Photos show a long, tiled picnic table to be used as a desk at the center. Colorful decor from a bright painting to an oversized clock is spread across the space, giving it visual interest at every corner. Westchester-based Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein calls the space: 'a masterclass in blending architectural elegance with bold, eclectic decor.'

Clearly, the experts are enamored with the space. Jove Meyer, NYC-based interior designer gushes: 'I am obsessed with this Spanish-style home with these oversized arches, reminiscent of Diane Keaton's iconic fashion, slightly oversized and chic! The terracotta roof mixed with the round white stucco fountain in the middle and rot iron lighting overhead blends the round curves in small ways that speak beautifully to the large curves of the arches.'

A post shared by Stephen Shadley (@stephenshadley)
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The rhythm of the arched doorways are a huge part of what makes this design so visually appealing. 'The successive arched doorways create a rhythmic flow, drawing the eye through the space and framing each view with a sense of grandeur,' says Lichtenstein. 'These arches not only define the office's unique aesthetic but also enhance its connection between indoors and outdoors, offering the flexibility to either close the space off for privacy or leave it open to embrace the surrounding environment. The white walls serve as a pristine backdrop, allowing the arches and decor to take center stage, while the oversized elements like the striking desk, enormous pot, and giant round clock add drama and intrigue.'

Keaton's converted breezeway is also effective because there is more than one focal point creating emphasis in the interior design. In a single glance, the eye is drawn all across the room. 'The oversized clock and large terracotta pot sitting on the table add even more roundness to the space. Your eye has so many places to travel, but the donkeys pull you in, followed by the statues around the fountain, as they are the pops of color in the neutral earthy space,' Meyer tells Homes & Gardens.

A Spanish-style home office similar to Keaton's (Image credit: Amy Bartlam)

The space goes beyond aesthetics: it is special because it is just as wonderful to live in as it is to look at. Meyer says: 'I would love to work in this office; you can have it open with fresh air or close the large doors. The natural light that pours in and the sound of the fountain seem like a picturesque place to work on a project, get some writing done, or take a meeting. I love how this space could also be used as a game room; it is a multi-functional space, which I love!'

Shop The Spanish-Style Home Office Edit

Marbled

Tan Marble Taper Holder

This earthy candleholder is perfect for bringing a warm, Spanish touch to your home

Textured

Hilde Woven Frame

This woven frame is at once rustic and sophisticated

Ceramic

Landis Planter

This artisan quality planter has an organic shape and feel to add some texture and interest to any room

If you hope to recreate the Spainifornia look in your own home, the best place to starty is by looking at how you can incorporate new lines into your space. Lichtenstein advises: 'One of the most captivating aspects of this office is the interplay of shapes—each piece of decor, from the statues to the light fixtures, contributes to a harmonious yet visually dynamic environment. The final arch, framing a colorful artwork, serves as a focal point that ties the entire room together, leaving a lasting impression of beauty and creativity.' Though the combination of large and small details, arches and lines, it's possible to build something similar in any space.

Diane Keaton's home is evidence of what can happen when you combine beautiful, well-planned design with gorgeous architectural features. It's truly a masterpiece.

These are Joanna Gaines' most iconic home renovations – a look inside 7 of the famed designer's best spaces

abby.wilson@futurenet.com (Abby Wilson) — Sun, 11 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Joanna Gaines is a force to be reckoned with in the interior design world. She spearheaded the wildly successful Fixer Upper franchise with her husband Chip, founded Magnolia Network, launched two furniture and decor collections, wrote several books, and much more. Though her success can be measured in many ways, it just takes one look at her design portfolio, compiled over the years, to recognize her interior design prowess.

We've written about loads of Joanna's finished spaces, and each one impresses more than the last. To celebrate the modern-farmhouse-inspired fixer-uppers from the Gaines archive, we had a look through the designer's most iconic properties. This is what you need to know about each space, and a bit of inspiration to take away – no matter your own interior design style.

A look inside 7 of Joanna Gaines' most celebrated spaces

From a 1920s hotel, to a '70s-inspired lake house, Joanna and crew have truly done it all. Here's a glimpse into seven of the designer's most iconic spaces, including her own home and the Fixer Upper greats.

Joanna's House

(Image credit: Joanna Gaines)

It's no surprise that Joanna's own home is a stunning show of her signature modern farmhouse style. From the very beginning, a classic black-and-white front porch welcomes guests inside, while greenery and a wood-paneled base soften the entrance look.

Each room of the Texas home is a work of art in its own right, but the 'California casual' living room exudes elegant, laid-back charm. With room built in for the entire family, each living room corner has been transformed into a fresh, functional space.

Even the most utilitarian spaces of the Texas estate are beautiful and considered. The laundry room, for example, is a plant-filled oasis, with loads of natural light and a much-used table. Joanna regularly escapes to this relatively pared-back space, pictured above, to think and write. And over to the bathroom, a whimsical pattern featured on the powder room's wallpaper (scenic, sketched clouds) shows the eclectic side of Joanna's style, and

The kitchen, too, isn't just a space for cooking. It's a gathering hub in the home, where Joanna whips up countless family meals and creative recipes. With bold kitchen cabinets and an antique focal point – a repurposed communion table that now grounds the space – the space itself is a masterclass in modern farmhouse style.

Joanna's Garden

A post shared by Joanna Gaines (@joannagaines)
A photo posted by on

Joanna's design talents aren't limited to the inside of the house, as is proven by her sprawling Texas garden. Checking in on the garden is a favorite post-travel ritual of the designer's, and many of the harvest's fresh-cut flowers end up within her elegant Waco home. Plus, she's known to indulge in flower pressing from time to time, all with the help of her lush garden right outside.

The layout and landscape design of the impressive garden can't be overlooked. It contains large, symmetrical planting beds galore, light gray pebble-covered walking paths, and hanging plants that bring the scenery to life. The summer bloom is something to marvel at, and when maintenance is necessary, a beautifully organized garden shed lies in wait nearby.

The indoor-outdoor spaces don't stop there, though. A sophisticated greenhouse offers a warm, welcoming escape, and the space is full of rich, abundant greenery to enjoy. And an expansive garden cottage – complete with a large wooden table, characterful shelving, and natural light pouring in – is one of Joanna's favorite spots of the whole home.

The Lake House

(Image credit: Courtesy of Magnolia Network)

The Gaines' most recent Fixer Upper project was an idyllic lake house with stunning views of Lake Waco. Ahead of the space's final reveal, Joanna told H&G that the project and an accompanying paint collection with KILZ were inspired by nature's beauty.

In many ways the finished home departed from Joanna's signature modern farmhouse style, instead leaning into a beautiful, timeless '70s-meets-Spanish-revival aesthetic. The retro Lake House is packed with character and charm, and each room delivers on this season's hottest design trends (while still feeling classic and enduring). A whole-home color palette of '70s-inspired shades takes all the best parts of the era's design style, while leaving behind the over-the-top, now-dated vestiges.

The lake house's mid-century modern living room is packed with retro inspiration, featuring classic furniture, natural wood finishes, and quirky light fixtures. A statement fireplace brings in Spanish revival style, and lake and forest views elevate the entire space.

In the kitchen, old-money style dominates, with bold veined marble and intricate fluted detailing taking center stage. A glass door leading to an outdoor pool makes the room even more appealing. And just off the entryway, a stylish home library provides the perfect space for reading, relaxing, or gathering with the whole family. The whole home, now sold to a lucky Texas family, is a serene retreat chock full of design inspiration.

The Castle

A post shared by Joanna Gaines (@joannagaines)
A photo posted by on

The grand finale of Fixer Upper: The Castle aired in 2022, and we're still not over the grand, elegant Tudor-style chateau unveiled by the Gaines. On the show, Chip referred to The Castle as the 'fixer-upper of all fixer-uppers,' and with nearly 4,500 square feet to renovate, he wasn't exaggerating. Each room of the stately property is gorgeous and worthy of its historic home, which was auctioned off to a lucky buyer last year.

From the first steps into the castle's entryway, characterful wall paneling and a nature-inspired color palette greet visitors with style. Architectural details ensure that the home retains its historic charm while leaning into modern-day design trends. Even the bathroom feels historic and important, featuring intricate windows, a standing tub, vintage-inspired cabinetry, and Art Deco-style accessories.

Joanna has called the kitchen one of the 'dreamiest rooms' of the whole home, and its organic color scheme exudes calm and serenity. The next-door pantry's moody, dark cabinetry makes the room feel like a world of its own, and wood-paned windows and a clean marble countertop reflect nature's unmatched beauty. While feeling contemporary and fresh, it's also a lesson in classic modern farmhouse style.

The Hotel

(Image credit: Courtesy of Magnolia Network)

Last year, Chip and Joanna took on their biggest project yet, a 50,000-square-foot hotel remodel with Fixer Upper: The Hotel. The property, built in 1928, was a local Waco landmark in need of a worthy refresh, and the Gaines were up to the task. But with 33 rooms, a restaurant, a ballroom, and a rooftop terrace, Hotel 1928 was no easy feat.

The final reveal, a considered blend of Joanna's signature look and Art Deco-inspired flair, is moody and characterful, fit for a beloved historic property. With loads of bookshelf-wealth inspiration to go around and a notable mid-century modern influence, the result is timeless and elegant. Every detail is well-considered, from intricate ceiling paneling in the restaurant to carved gold mirrors providing a backdrop to the bar.

The Gristmill

A post shared by Joanna Gaines (@joannagaines)
A photo posted by on

Because much of Joanna's life takes place in front of a camera, she also has an on-set home inside a gristmill built in the 1800s. The Gristmill, as she calls it, features an all-neutral living room with rustic beams and black-framed windows that divide the open-plan space. A classic white sofa and armchair provide the perfect place to relax in between takes, and a lush area rug in the same hue grounds the space.

The kitchen, where Joanna films her cooking show, Magnolia Table, is a stunning modern rustic space. Complete with unpainted kitchen cabinetry, natural stone storage alcoves, a white plaster range hood, and a vintage island, the space is a chef's dream brought to life.

'I was told early on that most cooking shows are filmed in studios where variables like lighting and sound can be controlled, which all makes sense,' Joanna wrote in a blog post unveiling the space. 'But I struggled with the idea of it. I’d imagined something different – space that felt authentic, that radiated with the same warmth and familiarity of my own kitchen at home.'

The 'Mini Reni'

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The Gaines don't just take on sprawling spaces – the pair's series of small, no-demo renovations as chronicled in Magnolia Network's TV special Mini Reni. The show follows Chip and Joanna as they renovate three rooms in one week, all with a limited budget. The final reveal is just as gorgeous as the rest of the Gaines' portfolio.

The living room is 1930s-inspired, complete with a light green hue on the molded walls, green tile trim on the fireplace, and classic, timeless furniture. It's a luscious retreat, with natural light and plenty of greenery.

The Mini Reni dining room takes on a similar color palette, featuring characterful green wallpaper, a light blue built-in china cabinet, and a nature-inspired dining setup that's sure to endure past the trends. The last renovation was a controversial bedroom remodel, which transformed a big white box into a sophisticated, wallpaper-clad den that feels cozy and cocooning.

We're sure there are more stunning remodels to come from Joanna Gaines. Her signature modern farmhouse look might have accumulated some twists along the way, but the design style is only growing better with time.

This Tudor cottage had all the charm but was 'organized for a bygone era' – here's how the architects tackled the renovation challenge

Hebe Hatton — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Finding a Tudor-style cottage, built in the 1920s, complete with all the charm, and beautiful views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais is of course the dream. However, the reality of... characterful let's call it, properties can be quite different.

While original features are on many interior lovers' bingo cards, they can be tricky to work with, as they are often not designed for modern-day living. So when the owners of this cottage made the purchase, they took a hot second to revel in the charm before bringing in Richardson Pribuss Architects and Studio Montemayor to take on the challenge of maintaining all that character while adapting the house design for modern tastes, and modern life.

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

Originally built in 1929, the home had great bones, that's clear to see even post-remodel and it's what drew the owners to the property and the architects to the project.

'We were drawn to this project because the house was located on a spectacular site, with great 'bones' and views, and the clients were lovely,' explains Heidi Richardson, Design Principal at Richardson Pribuss Architects.

'The clients came to us since they were initially considering renovating their grandparents' house, which is located across the street from one of our firm's recent projects in Downtown Mill Valley.'

'However, the clients subsequently found this current house fell in love with the location and views, and called our firm to help renovate while retaining the original style and charm.'

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

This project actually didn't begin as the huge overhaul it eventually became. 'Initially, the clients only wanted to reconfigure the upper level to accommodate a new primary suite by moving around the bedrooms and making space for the primary bath,' continues Heidi.

'The 'great moment' came when we decided to anchor the primary bath to the east rather than the west side, which opened the primary bedroom to beautiful San Francisco Bay views. We added a raised ceiling that exposed the underside of the existing roof rafters. We also added two large dormers in the primary bedroom to increase the light, airflow, and views.'

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

'We also enlarged the kitchen and modernized the space for the clients, who love to cook and entertain. But the most impactful change was rescaling the top floor and converting an inefficient corridor to a walk thru primary closet leading to the new primary bath,' adds Heidi.

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

'Through the numerous remodels over the years, we could see that there was also an opportunity to 'fix' the floor plan and modernize the flow,' says Heidi. 'We kept true to the original Tudor styling and maintained the smaller, cozy rooms, which meant that we didn't blow out walls or create huge living areas to respect the Tudor era.'

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

The most important thing from the very beginning of the project was to maintain that character that both the homeowners and those working on the property loved. And this went for both inside and out.

A huge part of the charm of this property is in those windows. And RPA of course kept those original steel windows where they could be salvaged, even repurposing them from other parts of the property to add more windows along the exterior-facing wall, to double the amount of natural light in the more lived-in rooms.

'It was important to keep the original Tudor style charm, which involved keeping the original steel windows and maintaining the roof lines. We had to dance around keeping the same window style, so incorporated some Aluminum windows in the larger opening,' explains Heidi.

'We also thoughtfully related the house more to the outside since the prior owner was a master gardener, and the rose bushes and grounds were an important part of the house's location and styling.'

(Image credit: Eric Rorer)

Heidi describes the style of the finished project as 'Neo Tudor' – 'The clients describe the house style as contemporary 'Coventry Cottage'; we describe it as 'Neo Tudor' since we retained the house's original Tudor style and charisma while introducing a more modern attitude.'

How to light your garden for wildlife – expert tips on how you can stop your lights from harming little critters

Alex David — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:30:10 +0000

Outdoor lighting is the perfect way to get the most out of your backyard. With good outdoor lighting, you can enjoy your garden for hours after sunset.

However, uplit trees and security lights can be incredibly harmful. Used incorrectly, even the best festoon lights can be a hazard to local wildlife. They can tangle up flying animals, confuse nocturnal animals, and even throw off feeding patterns.

I spoke to a landscape architect about the potential harm to wildlife from outdoor lighting - and how to light your garden without hurting an local critters.

How can garden lighting affect animals?

(Image credit: Getty Images / Garrett Aitken)

Outdoor light can be surprisingly harmful to animals, both nocturnal and diurnal. Garden expert Michael Clarke told me that 'Outdoor landscape lights, especially bright uplights that are used to accent features such as trees and buildings, can profoundly influence the natural surroundings for wildlife such as birds, insects, and nocturnal animals like raccoons, opossums, and hedgehogs, which can find these lights disruptive.'

Outdoor lights can throw off the circadian rhythm of diurnal and nocturnal animals, making them wake and sleep at the wrong times, which can limit their hunting or feeding time. Landscape lighting can make opossums sleep in, or convince songbirds to stay up late, throwing off their feeding times. It can even disrupt some animals' mating rituals.

These harmful effects on wildlife can also have knock-on effects on your yard. Michael Clarke says that 'Insects like moths and beetles, as well as frogs, can be attracted to these lights, creating issues outside of their usual environments.' With poorly-planned outdoor lighting, you could be inviting plagues of insects and amphibians into your yard.

Use warm, soft lighting for bats

(Image credit: Getty Images / Mindful Media)

The color of your lights can make a huge difference to local wildlife. The best color for your lights is warm orange or red light, like candlelight. There are several reasons for this. Light color is measured in Kelvin, and the higher the Kelvin, the whiter and bluer the light. High Kelvin lights - like spotlights and security lights - look a lot like daylight, which can confuse nocturnal animals.

White and blue light can also be harmful to specific animals. High-Kelvin light is particularly harmful to bats. White lights attract insects, which draws them away from bats' usual hunting ground. Not only does that mean bats go hungry, but it means that local populations of mosquitos and moths can grow out of control, which can be a nuisance when you're sitting out on the patio in the evening.

Worse than that, white light can disorient or even blind bats. Though bats famously have poor eyesight, they aren't totally blind, and they're particularly sensitive to white-blue light. However, they're less affected by red light, and insects are less drawn to it, so it's much better for these animals.

Michael gave me a simple rule to follow. 'Warm-colored lights under 3000 Kelvin are best and tend to be less impactful on wildlife than cooler, blue-toned lights, which are more closely aligned with daylight.'

Solar String Lights

These are the best solar lights I've ever tested. Chinese-made, I've seen them listed on Amazon under several different names, but it's the same product. They're surprisingly great - unlike other cheap Amazon lights I've tested, these have lasted for years. I tried them years ago and they're still going strong after months of sun, snow, and rain. Best of all, they make a warm, golden glow that's perfect for wildlife.

Brightever Led Outdoor String Lights

Cheap string lights like these are perfect for elevating a backyard on a budget. You get 100ft of lights, and they're 2700 Kelvin, so they're far under the 3000K recommended for wildlife.

Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights

If you need more options with your outdoor lights, these lights can be transformed to any color, which is perfect for creating red lights that don't disturb bats.

Use dim lights so you don't wake sleeping animals

(Image credit: daisy1344 via Getty Images)

Bright light is particularly harmful because it unbalances the food chain. Bright light can reveal prey to predators and vice versa. Depending on local conditions, this means that predators can eat too many prey animals, or that prey animals can easily spot predators and escape. That can lead to surpluses of animals. If local birds of prey can't hunt mice, rats, and chipmunks in the night, you may find your garden overrun with rodents.

Bright light can also disrupt nocturnal pollinators like moths, and this can have a knock-on effect on your flowers. If moths are drawn to bright outdoor lights, they can't navigate from flower to flower, which can affect the pollination of nocturnal-flowering plants like phlox and evening primrose.

Stick to solar lights

Some types of lighting are safer for animals than others. Most experts recommend solar-powered string or festoon lights as the best type of lighting for local wildlife. They tend to use low-Kelvin LEDs rather than white light. They also tend to be dimmer than utility power, which isn't great for illuminating things, but perfect for local wildlife.

Best of all, solar lights run on a timer and they tend to run out of power in the darkest part of the night, which is great for limiting disruption to animals. However, be careful to wind them tightly in trees or taut across paths, because they can tangle up flying animals like birds and bats.

Use a dark-sky zone to stop light pollution

(Image credit: Getty Images / Geoffrey Hunt)

Outdoor lights should be as close to your home as possible to limit disruption. If they're close to your home, their impact is mitigated by the brighter light coming from your windows.

Michael Clarke recommends 'If possible, use downward facing path lights and very focused uplights to focus on specific areas and avoid having light spread horizontally and outward further than it needs to be.' This not only stops light from spreading too far, but it limits its effect on flying nocturnal animals.

Most important, however, is that you keep some areas of your garden in the dark. Michael Clarke says ''Try keeping some areas of your garden dark, without lights, to provide safe havens for wildlife and also help to create balance with brighter areas that are used more often.' This is essential so that local wildlife can hunt in the dark, and it's also better for the local area, helping to limit light pollution. With less light pollution, you have a better chance of sleeping well, and you can see the stars at night.

Kooper Solar Pathway Lights, 8 Pack

This 8-pack of path lights is great value, and good for wildlife. They're solar-powered, so they're easy to install, and they max out at 3500K, which makes for a warm, golden colors that's perfect for wildlife.

Solpex Solar Deck Lights

These little deck lights are great for wildlife. They're small, so they don't give off too much light, and they only reach 3000K. Best of all, they're great value, as you get 16 lights in every pack.

John Timberland Gough Barn Light

If you want wall lights, make sure they're hooded and face downwards like this black barn light. It also has motion sensors and light sensors; it will turn on at 25% brightness when it senses dusk, and will only reach its full brightness when it senses motion, so it's perfect for a porch or a back door.

Wildlife FAQ

Do citronella candles repel mosquitos?

Citronella candles are fairly effective, but only if you're sitting right next to them. What's more, it's not the citronella that repels mosquitos, but the smoke - you could acheive similar effects with other candles.

All these methods are great, but they're preventative - they won't help to bring animals to your yard or increase local populations. For more help with wildlife, take a look at our coverage of flowers that attract bees, or how to attract hummingbirds to your yard.

How to add architectural charm to a room that doesn’t have any – experts advise

Karen Darlow — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 07:00:20 +0000

Anyone who's moved straight in to a newly built home will know the feeling well. I'm talking about that empty feeling: bare walls, stark windows and no sense of a focal point in the house design.

It's the same when you're renovating a space where all the original features have been stripped out, until you start to restore some interesting details and pull the interior design together there'll always be a sense that something's missing. Adding in detailing may repay you in other ways too, since there are some architectural features that add value to a home as well as enhancing the aesthetics.

So where do you start? How can you add architectural charm to a room that doesn't have any? We asked interior designers to share their tips on how to inject character into a featureless space and, ranging from quick fixes to minor construction work, their stylish ideas will make a world of difference.

How do you add architectural charm to a room that doesn’t have any?

The starting point for this challenge is to establish what's missing from the room. If the room is completely devoid of all architectural details, then the features that will be most obviously absent are things like the fireplace, decorative moldings, trim, millwork and perhaps built-in cabinetry. Besides adding these structural details there are many other quick fixes that will help to give the room some more interesting focal points.

Check out our interior designers' bright ideas for structural changes and minor decorative additions below.

1. Work with what you've got and embrace the blank canvas

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

Start by taking a close look at the room you want to improve. Even the most bland, empty space will have one or two redeeming features if you look hard enough. Now that might simply be the fact that the room's a total blank canvas, or that the walls are smooth and ready to wallpaper or paint, but these are all good starting points and can save you time and effort as you start to layer up wall decor ideas and decorative details.

LA-based interior designer Tancred Vilucchi of Maison Vilucchi is a great believer in working with what you've got, saying, 'Pay lots of attention to the existing space. there are numerous details, items that can be used or repurposed to add charm and character to a room. The existing features from architectural to decorative details and materials are often overlooked, and there are plenty of options to use them and arouse interest. Simply adding a different type of finish, or mixing traditional with modern results in elevating the overall atmosphere and creating charm in a room that doesn’t have any.'

In the Maison Vilucchi designed family room, pictured above, designer Tancred made the most of the unusual, if a little plain, architecture of the space. A newly fitted fireplace (more on this below) makes the most of an awkward angular wall, while a bright striped rug adds a sense of fun.

2. Fit a new fireplace – it's the ultimate focal point

(Image credit: Ema Peter)

If there's one architectural detail above all others that can make or break a room scheme, it's a fireplace.

In a newly constructed home with no fireplace, or an older property where the original one has been removed, fitting a traditional or contemporary fireplace and surround will instantly give the room personality. You'll need to look into whether you can add a working fireplace and have it fitted by experts, particularly if it involves installing or repairing a flue. However, these additional costs will be well worth the outlay since the gain in architectural charm will be off the scale.

Vancouver designer Gillian Segal designed the mantel, pictured above, from 22 cuts of marble. 'It's a focal point straight from when you open the front door,' she says of the stylish addition to her newly built home.

It doesn't have to be a fireplace – other focal points are available. The important thing is to have something to draw the eye into the room.

'Ensure that the room has at least one impressive focal point,' agrees Vancouver-based interior designer Erica Colpitts. 'And create a single view that draws all elements together into an artful arrangement. If your space is bland and lacking in design interest, consider how you could ground the space by adding a stunning fireplace surround, a beautifully detailed custom extractor hood, or a sizable piece of millwork or specialty cabinet. Focal points provide a context for all design elements within the space and allow our eye to rest in a moment of completion. They help us make sense of a space, and I think rooms that make design sense are rarely bland.'

3. Think about ceilings, moldings and millwork

(Image credit: Jack Thompson)

There's a good reason why moldings and ornate plasterwork were standard features in historic houses – they give the room a decorative framework, defining the space and enhancing the proportions of each room.

Architect Nadia Palacios transformed a neutral kitchen, introducing strong ceiling detailing, pictured above. The striking dark blue lacquer chosen for the cabinetry, draws the eye to the ceiling. 'A ceiling design adds interest and scale to a room,' says Nadia. 'Ceilings are often overlooked, which is a shame because they can provide a continuation to the architecture of the walls. I don’t think modern features are as effective as traditional details in giving scale and proportion to a room.'

What's more, according to interior designer Lauren Lerner of Living with Lolo, moldings and trims like these can be easy wins. 'To transform a plain room into a visually appealing space, consider adding molding, ceiling trim, wainscoting, bead board, beams, or built-in shelving,' she says. 'These additionas can instantly enhance the architectural appeal of a room. Crown molding, baseboards, and chair rails work wonders in elevating plain walls, infusing them with depth, character, and a sophisticated finish. These features are simple to install yet have a profound impact on a space, enhancing its aesthetic with a refined and bespoke touch almost instantly.'

Interior designer Vani Sayeed agrees, 'Adding crown molding, cased openings, and 5.5-inch baseboards are my go-to additions. In fact, fitting any trim adds elegance and a definition to a room,' she says.

4. Consider a transitional scheme

(Image credit: Ema Peter/Maison Vilucchi)

One tried and tested way to introduce personality to an empty, characterless space is to use transitional design. By combining old and new pieces to create one elegant design scheme you can bridge the gap between a featureless contemporary space and a more storied traditional look.

This could include adding in large scale traditional architectural features, such as a period-style fireplace or wainscoting, or it might simply be a case of incorporating antique furniture alongside contemporary pieces. Think vintage chandelier over a modern dining table. But whether you choose a structural, architectural approach to transitional design or take a decorative approach, the design experts agree that mixing old and new is a great way to bring character to a bland room.

'Sometimes the most impressive statement can be the addition of a modern feature in a period context, allowing the simplicity of the modern piece to truly shine,' says Erica Colpitts. 'The overall design aesthetic of the space might lean more traditional, but by including a piece with modern lines and proportions its simplicity becomes very striking in the context of a more classically detailed and accessorized space.'

Tancred is a big fan of transitional design to create storied interiors, as demonstrated above in his dining room scheme for an LA home. 'We aim to combine period architectural features that have different styles and provenance to create a charming atmosphere; which can be appreciated or interpreted in different ways from first sight,' he says. 'This is how we create stories through design, and eventually they become talking points.'

We've talked a fair bit about introducing period features, but can modern architectural features be effective at introducing character?

Lauren Lerner says yes. 'Modern architectural features can rival period elements in enhancing a space by harmonizing with its design,' says the designer. 'Clean lines, open layouts, and expansive windows create an airy, bright ambiance. Materials like steel, glass, and concrete offer creative textures. Contemporary elements like built-in furniture and modern lighting add a stylish touch, while geometric patterns and frameless doors enhance the aesthetic.'

5. Create interesting archways and openings to link or divide spaces

(Image credit: Alice Lane Interior Design/Nicole Hill Gerulat)

Another technique that works well in a space devoid of architectural charm is to create a new vista using doorways, arched openings or columns, as in the sumptuous Salt Lake City home, above, designed by Alice Lane Interior Design. The theory is that by interrupting the line of sight in a boring, empty space you entice the eye to explore beyond what it can see. It's rather like dividing up a garden with a hedge or wall, leaving an opening to provide a look-through and access into the space beyond. In a room the division needn't be a permanent structure, a similar effect can be achieved with strategically placed double-sided shelving.

Fitore Syla, who co-founded Muza interior design studio in Pristina, Kosovo, will often divide a room up like this to create an element of surprise. 'Regardless of the room's size, I like to create an artistic division between different areas,' she says. 'For example, I might use an open door with an arched or irregular shape to separate a bedroom and a wardrobe. In a living room and reading space, I might use an archway, a wooden divider, or another interesting element that maintains flow while adding a dynamic atmosphere. This adds depth and character to the space.'

6. Make good use of soft furnishings and window treatments

(Image credit: David Duncan Livingston)

Building up an inviting room scheme from a blank canvas is all about adding layers of interest and beautiful features, but one element that is often forgotten is the window treatment. When you're trying to add architectural charm to a room that doesn't have any, sumptuous drapes are the way to go and choosing a rich fabric and pattern will all add to the illusion.

'People often don’t add soft window treatments like drapery,' says Vani Sayeed. 'They think just having privacy blinds are enough but drapes add softness, color and personality to a space.'

Pillows, table skirts and upholstery fabrics are equally important to the finished look. The 1980s California Wine Country home, pictured above, 'lacked soul and authenticity' according to designer Benjamin Dhong. He consciously layered in soft sheers and patterns, and even used fabric on the walls to give the space much-needed warmth and character.

7. Have an eye for the small details

(Image credit: STYLIST CAROLYN ENGLEFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY MAX KIM-BEE)

Many of the design experts we spoke to agreed that introducing well designed hardware can make all the difference to a featureless room. Switching out cabinet hinges and handles can really give your kitchen ideas a boost. Similarly, a bland bathroom can be transformed with quality faucets, and the whole house gets a glow up if you change all the doorknobs.

Tancred Vilucchi says: 'Hardware is also often overlooked, from door hinges to cabinet hardware, these features will all elevate the overall atmosphere. There is plenty of great hardware design on the market that will stand out once installed on a simple door. Refined hardware such as handles, or pulls and knobs is a must when adding architectural charm to a room.'

Erica Colpitts agrees, and emphasizes the importance of choosing something individually made. 'Adding something hand crafted makes an instant difference,' she says. 'We are such intuitive beings, and I think we can sense when something in a space has been crafted with care and has the marks of an artisan. We can add hand crafted items into a space in the larger architectural pieces (like the strapping and rivets on a hood fan, or hand made steel hinges and handles on a cabinet), as well as in the accessories we use as finishing touches (hand cast ceramics, and artisan wooden bowls and boards).'

8. Discover how furniture and decorative objects can bring a space to life

(Image credit: Julie Soefer)

In a box-like room with few interesting features, choosing unusual furniture can help to bring the space to life. Designer Benjamin Johnston added ceiling moldings, and built-ins to this generous sized living room, where the only remarkable features were the huge windows.

He then turned his attention to the main pieces of furniture, choosing a striking curved sofa as his showstopper. 'Curvilinear furniture creates lines and dimensions where there previously were none,' he says. 'Paired with unique, decorative objects including pedestals, statues, sculptures, and vases of varying heights and scale, you can deliver an impactful dose of visual interest.'

Note the artwork displayed on an easel-type stand. This is another clever technique that can be used to break up a run of flat walls in an empty space, rather than hanging art on the flat walls.

9. Use color, decor and light to inject character

(Image credit: Pooky)

It's more important than ever to be creative with decor and lighting in a space with little or no architectural charm. Imaginative use of color can change the mood and energy of the room as well as enhancing newly integrated architectural features, while striking wallcoverings will help to give the room a more considered look.

'Working with color and integrating it into an interior is a challenging but rewarding task,' says Ksenia Mezentseva. 'Using color theory will help you to choose the right color to completely change the mood of the space. Integrating color to walls or ceiling can create a cozy and private feel to a smaller space or to expand it visually and make it fun.'

'Adding wallpaper that stands out from the décor and flows with the approved design theme, is the perfect way to create a story along with the decorative elements, turning them into talking pieces,' says Tancred Vilucchi. 'It is essential to create a flow with all the design elements from architectural details, to material and colors, textures, furniture, and accessories, to achieve visual unity and create harmony in the overall decorative concept.'

Well chosen and well placed lighting is an essential part of good interior design in any room and time and money spent getting lighting ideas right is always worth the investment. Lauren Lerner agrees: 'Lighting is an underestimated aspect in interiors, but statement fixtures like chandeliers or pendant lights can enhance a room's ambiance.' And for Fitore Syla, it's wall lights that make the difference 'I tend to find the most interesting wall lights' she says, 'focusing on them as unexpected features rather than just sources of light.'

A well lit room will combine ceiling lights, wall lights, table lamps and floor lamps to create layers and add depth to the scheme, combined with good color and decorative choices these are the perfect finishing touches to bring a blank space back to life and add charm to a room that doesn't have any notable architectural features.

Ruggable and goop's new rug collection 'blurs form and function' – the results are as stylish as Gwyneth Paltrow herself

hannah.ziegler@futurenet.com (Hannah Ziegler) — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 17:30:00 +0000

What happens when two of the biggest interior brands join forces? Well, in the case of goop and Ruggable, highly coveted products are sure to ensue. Gwyneth Paltrow's luxury brand (which boasts the infamous white boucle sofa) has partnered with the cult-favorite floor accessory company to produce a unique line of rugs, and needless to say, we will be adding them to our carts.

The brand-new product drop features eight different rugs, which come in flatwoven, tufted, and re-jute textures. According to a press release, Ruggable (rightfully known as one of the best places to buy rugs) took cues from goop's serene aesthetics and combined it with globally-inspired materials and designs.

Paltrow had this to say about the collection: 'A well-loved home is a backdrop for our most special memories: playing with our children on the floor, a boisterous dinner party with old friends, a rare quiet moment curled up with a book. For Ruggable x goop we leaned into those precious moments, blurring form and function to create an elevated collection of organic neutrals with motifs and textures lifted from our travels. Our hope is that these luxurious, washable rugs live in your mind as part of your most special memories for years to come.'

(Image credit: Ruggable)

The collection certainly takes on an internationally-inspired approach, with Indian dhurrie and Spanish revival aesthetics peppering the designs. The rugs come in mostly neutral hues, with a couple of teal and indigo options for the more color-oriented. Subtle patterns of stripes, polka dots, and grids provide plenty of visual stimulation without being overpowering.

We can see the rugs being styled in a modern, minimalist space, such as a Japandi living room or an organic modern dining space – both of which are aesthetics we are seeing in countless celebrity homes (including Paltrow's Montecito abode, designed by Brigette Romanek)

goop Elin Stripe Indigo Rug

goop Dilara Sage Green Tufted Rug

(Image credit: Ruggable)

Ruggable has previously collaborated with other high-profile figures, such as Kathy and Nicky Hilton and Justina Blakeney.

Since launching in 2008, goop has ventured into homeware and furniture, beauty, and fashion, securing its status as an essential lifestyle and wellness brand.

goop Luna Soft Teal Tufted Rug

goop Salerno Soft Black Re-Jute Rug

Goop Remi Camel Brown Rug | Ruggable

All rugs are available to shop on Ruggable's website, starting at $199.00. See a selection of our top picks below, which come in sizes ranging from 2'x3' to 10'x14' for area rugs, as well as a selection of runners.

Roca’s architecturally inspired bathroom collection will transform your space beyond recognition – the design perfectly encapsulates the ‘warm minimalist’ look

noemail@ti-media.com (Homes & Gardens) — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 09:00:41 +0000

When you are designing a space where switching off and embracing a more zen atmosphere comes top of the agenda, the warm minimalist trend is a clear choice. A bathroom should, at its core, be functional, thoughtfully designed and in keeping with the style of the rest of your home, which is something that Roca’s new Tura collection achieves tenfold.

Boasting a truly timeless feel, Tura is built on clean lines, a pared-back palette and sustainable material choices. When chosen well, a bathroom should last for years to come, and the everlasting quiet luxury appeal of the Tura collection means that it will withstand your taste evolving and the impact of high-traffic daily use.

A bathroom is a sanctuary in which to carve out time for ourselves, and it is where many of us start and end our day. Peaceful, minimal design that feels warm and luxurious, is the simplest way to ensure your bathroom is one of the most considered corners of your home.

Exploring the inspiration behind the collection

When dreaming up bathroom ideas, the modern Spanish look ranks highly on many wishlists. Combining practical surfaces with light colours and shapely designs, Mediterranean interiors enhance the sense of space and create an airy environment that works best in a washroom.

Created in collaboration with Catalan designer Andreu Carulla, Tura takes inspiration from the heritage of 20th-century Barcelona, a city known for its architecture and culture. A shared hometown of both Roca and Andreu Carulla, a take on the beautiful Spanish design and warm minimalist interiors have been woven into the foundations of the collection.

The combination of heritage design and contemporary sleek lines means that the Tura range will be a long-lasting addition to your home, and one that complements both traditional and modern interiors. The enduring design, along with the use of sustainable materials such as ceramic, recycled cork and felt, showcase Carulla’s consideration of environmental impact throughout the design process, and into the home.

Explore the key features of the wonderful Tura collection by Roca below.

Basins and Furniture

(Image credit: Roca)

The architectural inspiration behind the Tura collection is most evident in the modern design of the washbasins. Creating a minimalist look that is soft around the edges comes down to bathroom furniture that combines subtle curves and a warm neutral colour palette. Not only are the basins pleasing to the eye, but the ergonomic design also makes them enjoyable to use – particularly thanks to the hidden drain and additional surface space that is ideal for laying out toiletries.

To maintain a luxurious look in a bathroom, adequate bathroom storage is essential to keep surfaces clutter-free. The Tura collection of bathroom furniture evokes memories of Mediterranean summers with open slatted shelves inspired by shutters that are famous in the region’s architecture. A colour scheme of Matt White, Light Noble Grey and Light Terracotta is also reminiscent of simple Spanish interiors.

Wall-hung Basin

Unik Vanity Unit

Unik Asymmetric Vanity Unit

Baths

(Image credit: Roca)

Tura’s bath is where the Mediterranean design influence can really be showcased in a bathroom. For a space that is designed for lounging, soaking and switching off, a comfortable yet premium tub is essential.

A simple shape speaks volumes and this is inspired by an architectural cantilever system, creating the illusion that it is floating in space – the epitome of quiet luxury. Amplified by the option of an LED light around the base, it is easy to create a cozy ambiance when nights begin to draw in.

Made from Roca’s composite Stonex®, this material allows for a bath that is both spacious and light from a design perspective, with a slim exterior that will sit subtly in a room. It is also warm to the touch, anti-slip and easy to keep clean, making bathtime a stress-free experience.

Stonex® Oval Freestanding Bath

Complements

(Image credit: Roca)

The key to a chic bathroom design always lies in the details. The larger components certainly define the overall aesthetic, but adding those final touches has the potential to take a bathroom from bland to purposefully minimalist and luxurious.

The bath tray, which is a must-have for long soaks, is made of FSC®-certified wood and designed to sit flush on the edge of the tub. The bath also comes with a height-adjustable headrest made of recycled outdoor fabric, making it even more comfortable. The Tura collection has a great emphasis on sustainability which leads to thoughtfully designed features which are as pleasurable to use as they are to look at.

The collection also includes recycled felt storage boxes, specifically designed for displaying on open shelves. They come with a recycled cork lid to keep items dust-free, which can also be used as a shelf over washbasins for double the functionality.

Small Felt Box with Cork Cover

Bath Headrest

Large Felt Box

WCs and Bidets

(Image credit: Roca)

The core components of a bathroom, yet one of the least thrilling to choose, are WCs and bidets. While you may not have given much thought in the past to a highly practical bathroom purchase, Tura has redefined the selection of WCs and bidets with smooth, ergonomic designs that seamlessly blend with the rest of the collection.

No matter if you are planning a family bathroom renovation or attempting to better use the space in a smaller en-suite, there are many space saving features in the Tura range that make it all the more functional. The WCs and bidets come in wall-hung, floor-standing and close-coupled options to suit your exact space, and are available with Roca’s antimicrobial Supraglaze® finish, which makes it harder for dirt and limescale to stick to the surface and thus easier for you to keep clean.

Back-to-wall Rimless Toilet

Floorstanding Bidet

Wall-hung Rimless Toilet

Renovating a bathroom where practical features and stylish designs must ideally come together is never an easy feat. Roca and Carulla’s emphasis on architecturally-driven interiors that not only enhance the appearance of a wash space but are also smooth to operate define the bathroom as a spot to truly switch off and find solace in.

Robert Downey Jr.'s entryway color unites modern architecture with the 'timeless allure of nature' – it's the interior design of the future

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Uniting sustainability, nature-inspired design, and modern decor is no easy feat, but Robert Downey Jr.'s home makes it look so simple. A futuristic architecture firm, Binishells, designed the actor's contemporary Malibu home, and it's truly unlike anything we've seen before. The stylishly unique design of the house is most apparent immediately upon entry.

Robert Downey Jr.'s entryway idea incorporates a green, rounded door, with a round skylight on the ceiling. A blue, yellow, gray, and black divider wall separates the room over. Light-colored, natural wood floors ground Downey's space. Brushed white walls and ceilings give the entryway a modern feel.

'Stepping into Robert Downey Jr.’s Binishells home is like entering a sanctuary that effortlessly marries the sophistication of modern architecture with the timeless allure of nature,' says Nina Lichtenstein, Westchester-based interior designer. She continues, 'The modern entryway of this unique residence, inspired by organic shapes reminiscent of a cave, is a masterclass in design that is both innovative and deeply rooted in the natural world.'

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Lichtenstein goes on about the organic modern space: 'Downey’s home is a striking example of architecture “derived from nature and not imposed upon it.” The entryway, with its “sinuous shadows and delicate details,” encapsulates this philosophy perfectly. The white interior walls and oval skylight create a light-filled environment that feels both expansive and intimate. The skylight, along with the organically shaped front door, echos the natural curves of the entire structure, making the transition from outside to inside almost seamless.'

The white entryway color scheme helps Downey's space to strike this beautiful balance. Downey's white walls are the ultimate reflective surface for light and shadow. Lichtenstein says, 'Every element in this entryway is designed to enhance the sense of being part of the earth. The skylights allow natural light to cascade into the space, creating dynamic shadows and highlights that shift throughout the day. This interaction of light and shadow accentuates the organic shapes of the walls and fixtures, imbuing the space with a sense of life and movement.'

These effects are bolstered by the pops of green and blue in the space. Nina tells Homes & Gardens, 'The green front door, with its round window, is a welcoming portal that not only lets light flood into the entryway but also serves as a bold visual statement. It contrasts beautifully with the otherwise neutral palette, providing a vibrant focal point. Beyond the door, a divider made up of blue, gray/green, white, yellow, and black repeating organic shapes offers both privacy and openness, striking a delicate balance that defines the space.

She adds, 'This divider, with its wave-like undulating form, adds another splash of color and introduces a sense of organic motion into the room. It divides the space, giving each area its own unique feel while maintaining the airy, open atmosphere. The screen’s design ensures that the entryway feels expansive yet private, a harmonious blend that adds to the home’s overall aesthetic.'

The Neutral Entryway Edit

Rustic Accent Chest of Drawers

We love the pop of white in this rustic set of drawers, perfect for a front entryway.

Metal and Wooden Pendant

This contemporary light fixture combines modern metal with rustic wood.

Coffee Entryway Rug

This stylish and environmentally-friendly door mat is ideal for keeping the floors clean and dry.

The entryway is the space to make a first impression, and Robert Downey Jr.'s makes the strongest possible.

This rustic farmhouse was the designer's first project outside of the city – the result is a lesson in blending country and contemporary

Rachel Leedham — Mon, 13 May 2024 20:00:14 +0000

Appearances can be deceptive, as this farmhouse reveals. Its weathered brick facade, centuries-old beams, and timeworn flagstones all point to the house design of Tudor times – yet it turns out that it was built just twenty years ago.

‘The developers behind the project are renowned for replicating historical homes with meticulous attention to detail,’ comments Angus Reid, whose design studio Angus Reid Projects was tasked with refurbishing the interiors by the property’s new owners, a young Anglo-Swedish couple.

Calacatta Borghini marble worktops. Bespoke cabinetry, deVOL. Wobble plaster pendant light, Alexandra Robinson. Bespoke stools, Angus Reid Projects. Tiles, antique. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

‘The house offers the best of both worlds, combining lovely reclaimed materials with modern luxuries such as underfloor heating,’ says Angus. Angus is known for his quiet, considered aesthetic that sees pared-back spaces enhanced with textures, warm, neutral tones, and curated collections of furniture and objets that major on the mid-20th century.

This was the studio’s first country project. ‘It was definitely a departure for us, not least because this house offered so much more space than the urban projects we tend to work on,’ Angus acknowledges. ‘This was also our first foray into botanical prints – albeit of the non-chintzy kind.’

Studio sofa, Rose Uniacke; covered in fabric, de Le Cuona. Rug, Capitol Carpets of Chelsea. Table lamp, Anton&K Decorative Antiques. Corded stool, antique. Bespoke coffee table, Angus Reid Projects. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

Before he and his team set to work devising the interiors – which included a new kitchen and bathrooms, as well as the laborious restoration of the flagstones throughout the ground floor – they spent time understanding how the owners wished to use the house.

‘They wanted it to be a cozy home with generous, comfortable pieces centered around the fireplaces,’ he recalls. ‘Our clients have two dogs and they love to entertain informally, so practicality was important: the sofas have linen slipcovers and we sourced a type of matting for the rugs that is made from hogla, a plant fiber that is very forgiving when it comes to spills.’

French bleached oak farmhouse dining table, antique. Hans J Wegner CH24 Wishbone chairs, Nest. Curved wall light in Dark Bronze, Rose Uniacke. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

Furniture was scaled up to suit the generous proportions of the spaces, such as the antique French farmhouse dining table and the kitchen’s vast island. Angus designed comfortable bar stools, contrasting leather seats with tactile hessian backs.

‘I like to introduce as much texture as possible,’ says the designer of choices that include a handcrafted plaster pendant light and a splashback of antique Delft tiles. The color palette spans chalky whites and mushroom greys to moody tobacco and khaki hues - neutral but warm shades that complement striking antiques and mid-century pieces.

Walls in Raphael in Blue, Sandberg. Mirror, antique. Pyrford washstand, Catchpole & Rye. Wall lights, Howe London. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

‘Sourcing antiques was another chance to broaden our horizons, taking us out of our comfort zone of mid-20th century pieces,’ observes Angus, pointing out a handsome 19th-century pedestal table that was selected as a card table for the sitting room; it is teamed with 1930s rope chairs and a rare 1930s pendant by Louis Poulsen – a nod to the client’s Scandinavian heritage.

Pattern makes its appearance in the form of the cloakroom’s leafy wallpaper, which captures the beauty of an oak canopy. In the bedrooms, headboards are upholstered in arresting block prints. ‘We made the headboards quite large as we wanted them to hold their own in these vaulted spaces,’ explains Angus.

Bespoke headboards, Angus Reid Projects; in Ticking Stripe in Field by Penny Morrison. Floral print cushion covers and linen bedspreads, all Zara Home. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

It is evident that Angus’ soulful style of decorating lends itself just as beautifully to a country home as it does an urban setting. ‘I don’t think that country interiors have to be overly layered,’ he points out. ‘An uncluttered approach creates a feeling of calm, allowing a few chosen pieces to shine.’

Empire bathtub; Henry tub filler, both Waterworks. Blind in Primitive in Garlic, de Le Cuona. Classic Lyon tumbled limestone flooring, Mandarin Stone. (Image credit: Genevieve Lutkin)

Meet the designer

Angus Reid shares his style inspiration

Which part of the project are you happiest with?

The lighting scheme. We procured a mixture of new and antique lighting and integrated a control system for every mood.

What element was the greatest indulgence?

The bespoke joinery and furniture. We designed the bathroom vanities, wardrobes, and all the upholstered furniture to suit our clients’ requirements and house dimensions to the centimeter.

Tell us one small change that had a huge impact.

Refinishing and re-grouting the existing stone floors. The transformation was remarkable.

Describe your style in three words.

Serene, considered, inviting.

What are the essentials of a country house interior?

Big cozy sofas, roaring log fires, deep bathtubs, kitchens designed for entertaining, and a warm water external hose for washing the dogs!

What's inspiring you currently?

Alvar Aalto’s interiors and furniture.

The next game-changer in design?

Non-toxic wall finishes such as clay plaster.

What is Regency style? Here's everything you need to know about the trending (yet timeless) look

abby.wilson@futurenet.com (Abby Wilson) — Sun, 12 May 2024 10:30:00 +0000

The marvelous world of Bridgerton has gripped audiences around the globe for its dramatic storylines and eye-catching scenery. And with season three coming up quickly, we're reminded once more of one of the show's largest impacts on the interior design world: the rise of Regencycore. The bright colors, ornate details and over-the-top floral arrangements of Bridgerton's London have inspired a resurgence of an interior design style that extends far beyond the TV screen.

To better understand what Regency-style interior design entails in the real world, we spoke with Jean-Louis Deniot, a renowned architect and interior designer who's transformed historic, Regency-era buildings in London. Fashioning Regency-style looks in the modern day is no small task, and Jean-Louis' projects exemplify the trending style's roots. Here's what the designer shared about the interior design style you should know, plus how to make it fresh for 2024.

'I’ve been passionate about English Regency style for a very long time. It gave me great opportunities to work on listed regency buildings in London where in rooms which were lacking everything, I could completely design from scratch English Regency-style interiors, which eventually will be listed one day, and I’m very proud of that,' says Jean-Louis.

What is Regency style?

(Image credit: Jean-Louis Deniot)

This style of architecture and interior design dates back to none other than the early 19th-century Regency era, which technically only lasted for nine years (while George IV was Prince Regent of the United Kingdom) but has had a lasting influence. Bridgerton's release in 2020 brought attention back to the era's rich cultural scene, which was marked by advancements in literature, fashion, music, and the fine arts. And luckily, the era's ornate and elegant architecture and interior design has been adapted by admirers for present-day use and inspiration. But the look didn't start in the 19th century – certain features of Regency-era interiors date back to Greek and Roman antiquity.

Jean-Louis' work seamlessly blends present-day comfort with historic charm, and his English Regency spaces include all the hallmarks of the classic look. Engraved gold frames encircling grand portraits, carefully crafted lounge furniture with patterned upholstery, and intricate crown molding and millwork all call back the era's signature style. Regency-inspired spaces put elegance and elevation first, and their impact on even the most modern interiors today is undeniable.

'It’s the sleekest of the classical styles, with a more geometric and linear aesthetic. It's very symmetrical, and a bit stiff and dry, which makes it look more elongated, more elegant, and more elevated. It's all inspired by the Roman style from antiquity and because of that, there is a sense that we’re already accustomed to it. The shapes feel familiar, as they relate to these ancient styles. It’s a style that has been shared by most of Europe,' says Jean-Louis.

How do you design a Regency-inspired space?

(Image credit: Jean-Louis Deniot)

Though it might seem from the outside that the Regency style is all about wealth and extravagance, putting these spaces together starts from a much simpler place. Jean-Louis says that a successful Regency space relies on creating symmetry, and balance in interior design. The placement of your furniture and decorative accessories can easily make or break the look, so it's important to pay careful attention to the interplay between horizontal and vertical space.

'Design as many vertical lines as possible so it feels elongated or elevated. And work on proportions to look and feel sleek, light, and well-defined,' says Jean-Louis.

Unless you're set on creating a historically accurate version of a Regency home, the creative liberties available to you are endless. Accentuating vertical lines and ensuring visual balance within your bedroom or living room will help to channel the era's look, even if you haven't collected a full home's worth of authentic antique furniture. However, a few standout antique pieces certainly won't hurt.

What's to love about Regency-style interiors?

(Image credit: Jean-Louis Deniot)

People everywhere have fallen back in love with Regency interiors as of late, thanks to pop culture, but Jean-Louis thinks the admiration stems from further back. Because select elements of Regency style date back to the ancient Romans and Greeks, they've become inextricably linked with interior design, marking both the most celebrated spaces and those we see daily.

'Because Regency style is based on antiquity, we’ve had almost 2,500 years to get used to it,' he says. 'In my mind, antiquity was possibly the most refined, most elaborate, most accomplished era. I guess people are accustomed to and comfortable with all those qualities related to that style,' he says.

How can you make Regency style fresh for 2024?

(Image credit: Jean-Louis Deniot)

Regency-era interiors may feel incompatible with the modern, sleek design styles of the present day – Bridgerton looks quite a bit different from most of our homes, after all. But Regency style can easily be updated for the modern day. While more contemporary takes on antique furniture and a slightly moodier color palette are easy ways to make a Regency-style home look a bit more lived in, Jean-Louis suggests mixing the look with other interior design styles – in particular, brutalist interior design.

'What I would love to do is to mix Regency with brutalism. So that would mean something elegantly designed, mixed with geometric, more monolithic, and graphic shapes, I would love to be able to do that. But because I’m such a purist, I have a hard time making that juxtaposition, but I’m getting there,' says Jean-Louis.

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Jean-Louis proves that Regency-style interiors are more than meets the eye – with balance, symmetry and architectural details at the forefront, these spaces are well-considered and packed with historical significance. With a quick modern update, the Regency look still holds up in 2024, Bridgerton fan or not.

Kim Kardashian's simple but stunning architecture puts a luxurious spin on an underrated space in her home

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Kim Kardashian is known for her minimal, monochromatic style in both her fashion sense and interior design. Time and time again, her looks prove that simplicity can be the most elegant option. This is perhaps best illustrated by the hallway in her Los Angeles home.

The Keeping Up With the Kardashians frontwoman often shares the space on TikTok, but it's good for more than dancing videos. Despite the lack of furniture or hanging light fixtures, Kardashian's hallway idea is full of visual interest, in large part to the uncomplicated archways that zigzag down the narrow room. These arcs add a finished, luxurious feel to her home.

Interior experts say that there are several design lessons to be learned from Kim's innovative white hallway. First, it reveals the importance of considering design in all areas of the home. Jennifer Ebert, color expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens says: 'When it comes time to decorate, transitional spaces are often neglected. However, rooms like hallways are the glue that connects one part of your home to another. Choosing to prioritize design alongside function in these spaces gives a home that extra "finished" feel.'

@kimkardashian
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♬ It's A Wrap - Sped Up - Mariah Carey

Second, Kardashian's space demonstrates the effectiveness of one of 2024's coolest interior design trends: color drenching. Kim has painted the entire space white from the ceiling to the walls to the floors. The overall effect is incredibly striking. 'Color-drenched walls can be the single most effective and affordable way to transform and elevate a space,' says award-winning interior designer Matthew Williamson. This look is just as effective with white as it would be with a brighter, bolder color.

Furthermore, Kardashian's modern hallway highlights the timeless nature of using architecture to add interest to a space. Though an all-white hallway could look boring, the arches and rounded windows constructed into the space make it bold and unique without a piece of furniture in sight. For minimalists, this is a great way to instantly improve the look of a home.

A white, arched hallway, similar to Kim Kardashian's (Image credit: William Waldron)

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Even if you don't have an architecturally interesting hallway, you can easily add Kardashian's style to your home with these sculptural, monochromatic accessories designed by Kim K herself.

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The simplistic beauty of Kim Kardashian's space reminds us that design does not need to be complicated to be gorgeous, even in the most neglected of spaces. Whether it's a hallway, an entryway, or a closet, adding a bit of decor to those 'invisible' spaces can make all the difference.

10 Frank Lloyd Wright houses open to the public – tour the architect's iconic homes

Karen Darlow — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 17:30:39 +0000

Architect Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) is arguably the most influential figure in American architecture of all time. His groundbreaking approach to house design changed our landscape and redefined domestic architecture.

By far the best descriptors of Frank Lloyd Wright's style and philosophy are the three phrases he himself coined for his work:

Organic architecture – buildings that harmonize with their inhabitants and their environment, that are products of their place, purpose, and time. Frank Lloyd Wright's philosophy of organic architecture spanned his whole career, manifesting first in his prairie buildings, then later in his Usonian style
Prairie buildings – these low, linear, horizontal structures were designed to reflect the vast Midwestern landscape and appeared between 1900-1910. These homes were individually created for wealthy clients
Usonian style – around the mid-1930s, Wright first used the word 'Usonian' to describe his concepts for a new style of United States architecture for homes and cities, more attainable for a middle class clientele

Frank Lloyd Wright designed more than 1,000 buildings in the course of his long career, but it's his inspiring back catalog of house design we'd like to take a closer look at. And we'd like you to take a close look too.

The amazing Frank Lloyd Wright properties highlighted below are all open to the public, many featuring fittings and furniture designed by the architect. They were designed as private residences, but such was the great architect's influence on American living spaces that these homes now offer guided tours allowing us to share and better understand his designs and legacy.

We asked some of the house curators and custodians to tell us in their own words what makes their Frank Lloyd Wright properties special and why we should take the tours.

1. B Harley Bradley House, Illinois, 1900

(Image credit: Alamy)

'The B. Harley Bradley House (also known as Glenlloyd) is credited with changing the face of American architecture. Built in 1900 on the banks of the Kankakee River, Illinois, the house was the first example of Wright's Prairie style architecture. It was commissioned for B Harley Bradley and his wife Anna, and over the subsequent decade, Wright would incorporate elements of this first design into his other Prairie style homes. The house was fully restored in 2005 with almost all of Wright's original art glass windows intact. It was converted into a public museum in 2010,' says Bob Bohlmann AIA, Executive Director, B. Harley Bradley House.

Book a tour

2. Fallingwater, Pennsylvania, 1935

(Image credit: Christopher Little courtesy of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy)

This iconic property was designed in 1935 for the Kaufmann family, owners of Kaufmann’s Department Store. Wright designed Fallingwater to rise above the waterfall over which it is built, a perfect illustration of his organic architecture philosophy. The Pennsylvania property is the only major Wright-designed house to open to the public with its furnishings, artwork, and setting intact.

(Image credit: Christopher Little courtesy of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy)

'Fallingwater's legacy is serving as an example of Wright's ideas. But, Frank Lloyd Wright aside, I think it's a place where people come to get inspiration, to be reminded of how important it is to spend time outdoors with nature,' explains Ashley Andrykovitch, Senior Director and Curator of Education at Fallingwater.

Book a tour

3. Allen House, Kansas, 1918

(Image credit: Allen House Foundation)

'The Allen House in Wichita, Kansas, is the hidden gem on the Prairie! When you tour the home, it feels like you are a guest of the Allens and they have just stepped away for a moment. The home has been restored back to the original footprint of 1918 and it truly exemplifies Wright’s philosophy of living in harmony with nature,' explains Amy Reep, Executive Director at the Allen House Foundation.

(Image credit: Allen House Foundation)

'With over 30 pieces of Wright-designed furniture, the original art glass intact and the restored gardens, the Allen House is a step back in time for our guests of how the Allens experienced the home. The house was the last of Wright’s famous Prairie style homes but was also very pivotal in the movement to the Usonian designs of 1935 as visitors will experience when they visit the home,' adds Amy.

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4. Taliesin West, Arizona, 1937

(Image credit: Courtesy of Andrew Pielage)

'Taliesin West is a UNESCO World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark nestled in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, Arizona. Wright’s beloved winter home and desert laboratory was established in 1937 and diligently handcrafted over many years. Deeply connected to the desert from which it was forged, Taliesin West possesses an almost prehistoric grandeur. It was built and maintained almost entirely by Wright and his apprentices, making it among the most personal of the architect’s creations,' explains Rebecca Hagen, The Bruce Brooks Pfeiffer Director of Collections & Archives

Book a tour

5. Cedar Rock, Iowa, 1945

(Image credit: Cedar Rock State Park, Archives / Photograph Emilene Leone)

'In 1945, Lowell and Agnes Walter commissioned architect Frank Lloyd Wright to design them a retirement estate on a unique parcel of property they owned on the rocky banks of NE Iowa's Wapsipinicon River. Wright created a thorough design and an amazing space for entertaining in the garden room,' says Kathryn Hund, Cedar Rock State Park Manager.

(Image credit: Cedar Rock State Park, Archives / Photograph Emilene Leone)

'The space features a 1950 indoor garden and a 60' long climbing pothos all surrounded by three glass walls that dissolve the barriers between the indoors and outside. The property also includes the only boat house in Frank Lloyd Wright's portfolio with dedicated living space. Be sure to stop by and check out this site in person!' adds Kathryn.

Book a tour (opens May 24)

6. Samara, Indiana, 1956

(Image credit: Nathaniel Allaire)

'Samara, the 1956 home of John and Catherine Christian in West Lafayette, Indiana, represents one of Wright’s most fully realized Usonian designs,' says Nathan Allaire, curator of Samara. The 2,200 square-foot Samara was designed towards the end of the architect's career and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2015.

(Image credit: Lee Lewellen)

'Everything, from the landscaping and furniture to accessories and linens, bears the architect’s imprint. Today, the home affords visitors from across the world the rare and immersive opportunity to experience Wright’s comprehensive vision,' adds Nathan.

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7. Hollyhock House, California, 1921

(Image credit: Joshua White/JWPictures.com, courtesy of the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and Hollyhock House)

Hollyhock House was Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Los Angeles commission. It was built between 1919 and 1921 as the personal residence for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall, who asked Wright to incorporate her favorite flower, the hollyhock, into the home’s design. The house was to be the centerpiece of her plans for a cultural arts complex with a major theater, cinema, artist residences, and commercial shops.

Writing about the commission in his autobiography, Wright says: 'Now, with a radical client like Miss Barnsdall, a site like Olive Hill, a climate like California, an architect head on for freedom, something had to happen… So this Romanza of California came out on Olive Hill.'

Hollyhock House is now owned by the City of Los Angeles and operated by the Department of Cultural Affairs.

(Image credit: Joshua White/JWPictures.com, courtesy of the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and Hollyhock House)

In 2019 Hollyhock House became LA's first World Heritage Site. Eric Garcetti, who was the mayor of Los Angeles at the time, said: 'Hollyhock House is one of Los Angeles’ greatest cultural treasures – a landmark elegantly rendered from Frank Lloyd Wright’s imagination and Aline Barnsdall’s vision. The history of this home and its excellent craftsmanship will inspire Angelenos for generations to come, and Hollyhock House’s well-deserved place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List is a fitting tribute to this bold structure.'

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8. Laurent House, Illinois, 1949

(Image credit: Nels Akerland)

'Every morning for 60 years, I would come out of my bedroom and pause in the doorway, sitting in my wheelchair, to look down the window wall, I’d take in the beauty that Wright designed, seeing both the indoors and outdoors, as if there were no barriers. That scene allowed me to forget about my disabilities and focus on my capabilities,' said Ken Laurent of the house Frank Lloyd Wright designed for him in 1949.

'The Laurent House, in Rockford, Illinois, is unique as the only home Wright designed to be wheelchair accessible. Ken Laurent, a WW II veteran who suffered a spinal cord injury, reached out to Wright in 1948 to request a home that would accommodate his unique needs. The house was completed in the summer 1952 and enjoyed by Ken and Phyllis Laurent for more than 60 years. The house opened as a public museum in 2014 and welcomes guests from around the world each year,' says Mary Beth Peterson, Executive Director of Laurent House Foundation.

(Image credit: Courtesy of Andrew Pielage)

'The Laurent House museum is complete with furniture and textiles, also designed by Wright. Visitors will discover how far ahead of his time its creator was in designing an accessible home that truly gave Ken Laurent a rich and fulfilling life,' adds Mary.

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9. Frederick C. Robie House, Illinois, 1910

(Image credit: Tim Long)

The Frederick C Robie house in Chicago, Illinois, was designed by Wright between 1908-1910 as a single family home. The architect described it as 'a cornerstone of modern architecture.' The Prairie style house, inspired by the wide plains of the American Midwest, is still considered one of the most important buildings in architectural history.

(Image credit: James Caulfield)

'One of the great masterpieces of 20th-century architecture and design, the Frederick C. Robie House synthesizes all the major innovations of Wright’s design philosophy. It is the definitive expression of his Prairie style and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019,' explains Christine Trevino, Communications Manager for the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.

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10. Oak Park Home and Studio, Illinois, 1889

(Image credit: James Caulfield)

The architect's Chicago home was where it all began and so is a fitting place to contemplate just how much Frank Lloyd Wright achieved during the course of his long career.

'Frank Lloyd Wright’s first home and studio in Oak Park (1889-1909) was the birthplace of an architectural revolution. Wright used his home to explore design concepts that went on to shape his architectural philosophy. In his studio, Wright and his associates developed a new American architecture – the Prairie style. The surrounding historic district has the greatest number of Wright-designed houses worldwide,' explains Christine Trevino, Communications Manager for the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.

Book a tour

The properties featured above are just a taster of the many Frank Lloyd Wright homes open to the public.

We've picked out some of the most famous of the architect's houses, and some of our personal favorites. We hope they will inspire you to visit in person, and perhaps to go on and discover your own favorite Frank Lloyd Wright houses.

How to find the perfect architect for your next home renovation project

Anna K. Cottrell — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 16:00:54 +0000

Embarking on a home renovation is both exciting and stressful. From the project's scope to the smallest design detail, there are so many decisions to make that it can often feel overwhelming.

Finding the right architect to oversee and execute your project is crucial to successfully renovating a house. But the question remains: how do you make sure you end up hiring the right one?

Residential architects vary a great deal in the size of practice, experience, and areas of expertise. Depending on the type of home you have and what you want done with it, your choices will be very different. No matter what you do, don’t just Google ‘architects near me’ and hope for the best. Doing thorough research and making sure your home and your architect are the perfect fit will pay off in the long run.

How to find the perfect architect

We’ve asked licensed architects to shed some light on how to find the right architect for your home renovation. Here’s what they told us:

1. Do your research

(Image credit: Future)

This may seem like it goes without saying in our digital age, but reading up on a few firms that operate in your area is a very good idea before hiring an architect.

Lee Calisti is the Strategic Construction Advisor at Real Estate Bees; he is an architect licensed in Pennsylvania and is NCARB-certified. Lee tells us that ‘all good architects today have some digital presence'. He recommends looking architects up online and vetting them by 'reviewing their portfolio, reading articles they’ve written or been quoted in, and watching videos that feature them.’

It’s also an excellent idea to read some client reviews on Google. While media exposure is generally a good thing, you still want some testimonials from recent clients. Did the architect deliver the renovation project within the timeframe promised? Was the result what the homeowner wanted? Was communication good?

2. Decide if you like the architect's style

(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)

This really is crucial while doing your initial research. While browsing the architect’s portfolio, do you like what you see? If your first thought when looking at the pictures is, ‘I’m not sure I like this,’ move on swiftly.

Lee Calisti recommends ignoring the usual statements architects’ websites may make about tailoring their approach to each client: ‘Yes, architects will tell you that they will design a solution that meets the constraints and the context and whatever other criteria you throw at them. Nevertheless, ask yourself if this architect will deliver the kind of solution you would like to see.’

Ideally, the architect’s work should speak to you immediately – and that should be consistent when looking at multiple projects they’ve completed. In other words, you should see a consistent style across their portfolio; if their projects look very different from one another, this could be a red flag.

As Lee explains, ‘good architects, in my opinion, are good at a limited menu.’ So, if you want someone really good at restoring a historic home, look for an architect who works with historic properties. If you are renovating a mid-century apartment, find an architect who has worked with mid-century homes before.

3. Be honest about your expectations and preferences

(Image credit: Drew Forsyth)

You’ve found an architect whose work you like. Now is the time to get in touch with them to discuss your home renovation project. This is your opportunity to be very honest and precise about what you want:

‘Tell them what you’re thinking, what you like, and what you don’t like,' advises Lee. Also, be very upfront about your budget and timeframe. The more detail you can provide, the better equipped the architect will be to gauge whether they can deliver the project.

A good architect will never take up a job they know they can’t deliver for one reason or another. They also need to know early on how flexible and open to suggestions you are. Some people are happy for the architect to take the reins a bit more, especially when they’re not so sure about the smaller details. On the other hand, if you have very detailed plans and a clear vision for what you want, the time to communicate that to the architect is before you’ve agreed to work with them.

4. Pay attention to their communication style

(Image credit: Future)

It’s not all about how well you communicate what you want, though. Communication should be successful both ways, so pay attention to what questions the architect asks you about your home renovation.

Licensed Architect Jeff Akerman explains further: ‘It's the architect's job to ask the right questions, targeting key aspects of your lifestyle, standards, processes, and preferences.’

The point about lifestyle is an important one. A good architect ‘not only possesses the technical expertise to realize your vision but also understands your particular design tastes and unique lifestyle requirements.’ They should ask you questions about how you plan to use specific rooms, for example. After all, they’ll be in charge of making sure that you end up with a home, not just a house. So, ‘it's important that the architect appreciates the emotional connection humans naturally have to the place they live.'

On a purely human level, you also want to work with someone kind and easy to talk to. Jeff believes that a ‘mutual understanding and rapport from the outset’ is essential.

5. Make sure they understand local laws and regulations

(Image credit: Sofa.com)

Last but not least, you need to make sure that your chosen architect possesses a balance of the creative and the logistical aspects of the job.

Jeff Akerman emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the architect has the ability to navigate local regulations and zoning laws: 'You want your renovation to be compliant and hassle-free.'

This is especially true if you are renovating a home in a conservation zone or the building is historic (or 'listed' if you are based in the UK).

FAQs

What’s the biggest mistake people make when choosing an architect?

We hate to say this, but the biggest mistakes are usually made when homeowners don’t communicate their needs and wants clearly at the outset. And the area this most often applies to is budgeting.

Under-budgeting – or worse, not knowing your budget – inevitably leads to misunderstandings and difficulties somewhere along the project. Lee Calisti says, 'If you don’t know your budget, you should do more research and accept that construction will cost far more than you think or want.’

Once you know your budget, things get much easier because ‘the architect’s role is to work within the boundaries of your budget.’ That means ’you may have to make hard decisions about what you can include in the scope of work. Some aspects might have to wait until a later phase or be scrapped altogether.’

Reducing the scope of your project may be the only way to save money on your home renovation. It’s best to know this at the beginning than ever be in a position where you realize you’re running out of money halfway through a home renovation.

9 transitional living room ideas that nail this old-meets-new style

Lara Sargent — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:00:49 +0000

With new trends hitting the interiors spotlight all the time, it’s easy to see why transitional living room ideas are on the rise. Not only does this classic blend of old and new suit every style and size of property, but it’s also a timeless look you’ll never tire of.

So if you want to learn how to create a transitional style in your living room, read on for our expert-approved tricks of the trade that nail that balance between embracing current interior design trends, but also ensure the room still feels classic.

What Is A Transitional Living Room?

Interior designers agree that transitional living rooms are a harmonious mix of traditional and contemporary style. You could try out elements of English country decor alongside mid-century modernism. Or neutral Scandi-style furniture within a listed building backdrop.

Above all else, these easy-on-the-eye living rooms are elegant, comfortable, and classic. This makes it a go-to style mantra whether it’s a busy family household or an apartment for one.

'The transitional living room redefines timeless grace with a modern twist, ensuring both comfort and a contemporary aesthetic,' says New York based designer Kati Curtis. 'It’s a blend where the essence of sleek and modern minimalism meets the warmth of classic style.'

What is the difference between transitional and traditional style living rooms?

Although transitional living rooms may share certain traits with traditional ones, there are differences too. Traditional spaces are often warm, heavy and cocoon-like with an emphasis on symmetry and saturated color. Transitional living rooms can include all of those elements too. However, the key difference for transitional style is blending the traditional with contemporary elements such as modern lighting or geometric patterns. The result is classic and timeless but with a fresh outlook.

9 Transitional Living Room Ideas

One of the big advantages of transitional living rooms is that they are timeless yet original. In your own home, this means decorating this important communal space with a balance of styles that you adore.

For the living room, that could be an antique rug with a 1960s sideboard and modern art on the walls. Or perhaps a traditional couch upholstered in a contemporary striped fabric with a mix of patterned cushions.

'Transitional design is all about breaking free from the constraints of sticking solely to neutrals or adhering strictly to one aesthetic,' says British interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'For me, this means celebrating the unexpected juxtapositions, the harmonious clash of old and new, bold patterns alongside classic designs.'

There’s another big plus point for transitional living rooms too. With such a classic look, you can dip your toe in a few living room trends further down the line if you fancy a mini style update.

While this ‘anything goes’ style ethos sounds easy to pull off, it’s a good idea to follow a few design pointers. Read on for interior design style rules for transitional living rooms and get the perfect blend of old and new.

1. Reinstate original features

(Image credit: Micheal Sinclair)

An effortless blend of vintage decor and contemporary is a hallmark of transitional living room style. And that includes the architectural detail of a room.

In period properties, restoring original details is a great starting point for your project. Look at reinstating fireplaces or plasterwork to suit the age of the house, whether these are originals or newer versions.

'For the living room in this Grade II listed townhouse, we restored the stunning cornice as well as introducing new Georgian moldings to frame the walls,' explains interior design Clémence Pirajean of London-based studio Pirajean Lees.

'We reinstated the Georgian fireplace, a central focal point of the living room that had been removed during a previous renovation. The marble hearth is a more contemporary detail, grounding the fireplace in our current era. We then layered these architectural details with a mix of antique and contemporary furniture and accessories.'

2. Clash color in transitional living rooms

(Image credit: Laia Cocoi)

Just like transitional bedrooms, a mix of period and modern decor will create a unique and timeless living space you’ll never get tired of. For British interior designer Matthew Williamson, a playful use of color is one of the most important elements of this considered mash up of old and new.

'It’s about injecting personality and individuality into a space, and that, for me, means color,' he says. 'Color is the most powerful, exciting and universal tool in interiors. It’s the simplest way to make your home immediately joyful and optimistic and can work with a large variety of styles and aesthetics.'

This colorful living room is uplifted by bold pops of color, such as the soft aqua beams, cobalt blue side table, red strawberry vase, and hand-painted sideboard.

3. Add interest with sweeping curves

(Image credit: Bethany Adams Interiors )

When designing a transitional living room, it’s important to soften any space that appears overly modern. This is especially so in a new-build home or extension which might have a boxy silhouette.

In this 1920s Tudor revival home, designed by Kentucky-based interior designer, Bethany Adams, the living room is located within a 1980s extension. With faux beams and a contemporary, plaster-finish fireplace, the new living room is indeed sleek and modern. However, the curvaceous ochre couch injects flow and a timeless family-friendly appeal.

'The idea was to have a highly climbable sofa, that would be comfortable for the whole family to curl up on to watch movies or read the newspaper while their young daughter played,' says Bethany. 'Crittall glass doors are modern but were also popular in 1920s homes so they leave one guessing.'

4. Sort out the key elements first

(Image credit: James McDonald)

Layering color and decorating with pattern is a wonderful way to introduce a classic, transitional mood in your living room. But if you’re not confident with mixing up chevrons, stripes, and florals, the experts advise getting the big items sorted first.

Before you rush headlong into buying up piles of gorgeous print cushions, work out what you want for the main elements of the room.

'We always recommend looking at the key elements together such as paint and wallpaper and fabrics for key pieces like sofas and window treatments,' says London-based interior designer Kate Guinness. 'Once you have those things sorted, you can have fun playing around with what works for the smaller details, such as occasional chairs and cushions.'

5. Introduce texture in transitional living rooms

(Image credit: Thomas Kuoh)

If you’re not a big fan of bold color or striking print, what’s the best way to add personality to a classic transitional living room?

A top tip is to introduce feel-good fabrics, especially in neutral living rooms. Not only will tactile elements cozy up a space, but textures such as wool, linen, and suede will add depth to a neutral color scheme.

'By anchoring the space in a neutral palette and embracing a variety of textures like leather and suede, this room skilfully mixes modern pieces with classic touches,' explains California-based designer Kriste Michelini. 'Homeowners should blend streamlined and heritage furnishings such as a sleek sofa set against a traditional fireplace and rug.'

6. Embrace different species of timber

(Image credit: Sara Ligorria-Tramp)

Wood furniture and timber floors work equally well in both modern and traditional decor. So what’s the best way to use the classic warmth and elegance of timber in transitional living rooms?

'Mixing and matching wood species and stains brings a lived-in feel,' explains interior designer Hayley English who is based in California. 'Here the rustic timber armoire and classic oak flooring is offset with white painted beams, woodwork and door frames for a contemporary backdrop that makes the space feel larger and fresh.'

7. Focus on seating in transitional living rooms

(Image credit: Bess Friday)

Transitional living rooms need to be comfortable as well as stylish. So, your choice of couch and chairs is one of the most significant elements of the space.

'In this transitional living space, we deliberately chose a 10ft sofa and two armless lounge chairs dating back to the 1960s, prized for their distinctive character, unique lines, and proportions,' enthuses Nikki Haramoglis, principal designer at San Francisco-based Westward Atelier. 'These pieces underwent a revitalization process, being skilfully upholstered in durable krypton fabric to withstand high traffic.'

The choice of earth-toned fabric contributes to the timeless aesthetic and harmonizes with the room’s sleeker, more contemporary elements such as the marble and forged iron tables.

8. Invest in future heirlooms

(Image credit: House of Hackney)

'For transitional living rooms, it is important to invest in what we like to call our ‘Future Heirlooms’,' explains Chloe Vince, in-house decorating consultant at House of Hackney. 'These are artistically designed pieces made by British craftspeople specializing in generations-old trades. They are beautiful, functional and last a lifetime.'

In typical House of Hackney style, the brand gives traditional furnishings a modern twist, spot on for a transitional design ethos. The Artemis Blush rug is woven by British heritage brand Axminster Carpets while the handcrafted Wilton sofa is covered in its own Wild Card leopard print jacquard.

9. Embrace the architectural bones of transitional rooms

(Image credit: Helen Cathcart)

Respecting the architectural bones of a property is a crucial design tip, especially for transitional living rooms. Annie Harrison, founder of London-based design studio FARE INC. designed a worldly, cottage style in this Grade II-listed warehouse conversion (c. 1843), nestled along the River Thames in London.

;The apartment is dressed with light touch cultural patterns and modernist antiques,' says Annie, 'and the interior pays homage to its historic roots while embracing contemporary aesthetics. The original beams and columns, brimming with character, serve as the focal point, guiding the refurbishment process.'

The rustic charm is enhanced with tactile paints and rustic-grade flooring while monochromatic, Scandi-style decor and eclectic Eastern treasures add a touch of modernity.

Transitional living room ideas are always going to create timeless living rooms too. The blending of old and new, and different styles from different eras ensures a layered space, filled with depth and interest. Of course, you can bring into trends that you love too, but starting off with the transitional approach to your decor will result in a home that never dates.

These are the 5 essential components to designing any garden space, according to an NYC landscape architect

rachel.bull@futurenet.com (Rachel Bull) — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 06:00:23 +0000

When it comes to creating the ideal backyard to suit us and our families, are there certain things that will always transcend trends, location, money and even the size space you have? And if so, what are they?

This is just one of the many questions I asked landscape architect Edmund Hollander in a recent interview. With more than 40 years' experience in the business, Ed's clients that have taken him all over the world. He has worked on incredible projects, ranging from The Reach at The Kennedy Center, to urban penthouse gardens in New York City. He is past president of the New York Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), and is an elected Fellow of the ASLA. If anyone is going to advise us on our garden design and get it right, it’s him.

Our chat came ahead of the release of Ed’s new book, The Landscape of Home, published by Rizzoli and available to pre-order from Amazon. The book showcases a selection of Hollander Design’s most impressive projects from the past decade. We talked at length about how to extend the concept of home from a house to a backyard, and what it means to work in harmony with the land.

‘One of the things we found during the Covid pandemic, was that people started to live in their landscapes and gardens much more than just look at them; all of a sudden everyone was living outside because that was safe and healthy. One of the things that grew out of that was the concept of home,' Ed tells H&G.

'Home took on more important ideas - it was refuge, peace, solace, security, family, and health. We work in such a range of styles - from the most contemporary, traditional, ecological, and formal - but none of that prescribes what you’re going to do. It's about looking at the natural ecology, the architectural ecology, and then of course the human ecology - it's about the families who live there and how they are going to use the space.'

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Rizzoli)

The 5 most important elements of designing an outside space

When it comes to designing a garden space, there are always going to be vast variations in many factors, such as the size of plot; the shape of the land; the aspect; the soil type - the list is a long one. But certain elements transcend these factors, and we share some of these below.

Listen to the land, then make a plan

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Rizzoli, Hollander Design)

To begin any backyard design project, it's always good practice to start with a series of questions, which will inform your plan.

'Always plan before you work,' advises Ed. 'Think of the whole thing together. Listen to the land, to the architecture, to the family.

'Listening to the landscape is multisensory,' he continues. 'Try to understand it, and what you want to get out of it. Do you have a terrace or acres of space? What are the buildings doing? Then ask yourself, what do you want to go outside and do in this space? Do you want a place you can cook or space to grow vegetables, for instance. How will you enjoy this with your family?'

Seek out local expertise

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Rizzoli, Hollander Design)

You may have lived in the same area of the country your whole life, but that doesn't always equate to being an expert in the soil type you have, or the plants that will thrive in your particular climate.

Ed advises that no matter where you are located, seeking out local knowledge and expertise from a plant society, extension service, garden center or local gardening group, is invaluable.

'After 40 years - and 10 working in education - in the New York area, I’m just starting to feel like I have a grip on this microclimate and what will do well here,' says Ed.

'You need to design a landscape that is tailored to the environmental conditions that exist in a particular location. So if we are working on a project in Taiwan, let's say, we always need to find the local version of us,' he continues. 'I need people with expertise in that particular area. They have the resources for local, native plant material, for instance, and through them we can understand the soil, drainage, and which plants will thrive.'

Focus on the simple things and working with nature

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Rizzoli, Hollander Design)

When it comes to the overall life trends we are seeing right now, simplicity, ease of living, and healthy living, are right up there, says Ed. So when it comes to garden planning, it is about letting the design allow for management and care in a healthy way.

'There is much greater concern with chemicals in the environment now than there was even 10 years ago,' he says. 'So thinking about how you can create the right soil and drainage for your plants is important because that's what’s going to allow you to maintain your garden beds in a non-toxic way.

'Part of our job is to be informative about the way environments and landscapes work,' adds Ed. 'I want people to understand we are going to plant a tree, and in the first year it may look a little sad, because what it’s doing right now is conserving carbohydrates and growing feeder roots so it can absorb water and nutrients, and get over the transplant shock. But then it will thrive.'

Underlying all that education, however, is a simple desire to create a space where love and joy will also grow.

'People want to go out into the garden nowadays and pick a peach and pick blueberries,' says Ed. 'They want to grow and pick food they can harvest with their children and grandchildren, and that transcends wealth, status, size of the property. There is a magic in going out and picking a raspberry with a child that gives a level of joy that’s priceless.'

Remember to plant for tomorrow

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Rizzoli, Hollander Design)

Having been in this business for more than 40 years, Ed says what he can plant has changed dramatically over the course of his career.

'Plants like magnolia grandiflora and lagerstroemia (crepe myrtle), which before only grew in warmer climates, will now grow in colder climates, while trees like birches and spruces now don’t do well in some climates as it’s too warm for them,' he explains.

'There are two shifts going on. We have a shift in the horticultural reality of what wants to grow where. And we have changes in the climate that impact issues like drainage and rainfall. We are getting rainfalls now that we never used to get. This changes how we build landscapes, as we are trying to do this anticipating an exacerbation of the severity of the weather.

'Not only are we designing for today, we are also designing for tomorrow.'

Have fun

Highland Meadows project from The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, published by Rizzoli (Image credit: Charles Mayer/The Landscape of Home, Hollander Design, Rizzoli)

The last element is clearly one of the most vital to Ed and his team, and that is to enjoy the entire process.

'One of the things that is desperately important to us on all of our projects is that we have fun, and that we laugh with our clients,' affirms Ed. 'Let the process of creating and designing and watching it grow, let that be part of the fun of it. It should be joyful. If home doesn’t equal joy, then what does?'

The Landscape of Home: In the country, by the sea and in the city, published by Rizzoli, is out in March 2024.

How do you design a transitional bedroom? 7 looks that perfectly blend old and new

Lara Sargent — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 19:00:39 +0000

If you want a stylish and timeless sleep space, packed with personality, then transitional bedroom ideas are the answer. Not too modern and not too vintage, everyone is talking about transitional design. And we've seen a huge uptick in designers and homeowners adopting this classic, old-meets-new style for their own.

But what exactly is transitional design and how can you create this eclectic yet harmonious look in the bedroom?

What is a transitional bedroom style?

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

According to the experts, transitional design is perfect for every room in the house. Rather than sticking to a single, micro trend – which can quickly make a home feel dated – transitional interiors are diverse, balanced and timeless. Designers carefully blend contemporary and traditional styles and combine furniture and accessories from a wide range of eras. The result: a classic and individual design mood that can effortlessly adapt to future decorating projects.

'Transitional decorating bridges the decades, styles, and color stories of a home’s architecture and décor to create something unique but also totally appropriate for the space it inhabits,' declares Kentucky-based interior designer Bethany Adams.

In the bedroom, that might mean a four-poster bed but with a clean, unfussy silhouette. Then the classic style can be layered with bold color, handcrafted quilting and fringed velvets, juxtaposed with modern artwork hung on the walls. By blending old and new, modern-day and period, your bedroom will become a considered yet inviting space you’ll never want to leave.

7 transitional bedroom ideas for a timeless look

Transitional bedroom ideas feel timeless but effortlessly current and original. Most importantly, transitional bedrooms are about balancing styles so the room never dates. It’s an effortless look that can take time and skill to create. But the results are definitely worth it, creating a classic mix of styles that won’t date. Rather than following one particular trend, the transitional bedroom is more individual and can reflect your personal décor preferences.

'I’m a firm believer that interior design is a life-long process, and as such, it should reflect your personal taste and changing habits, combining pieces from different eras and styles to really tell your story,' states award-winning British interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'That is what transitional design means to me – combining old and new pieces to create a space that truly reflects your personality.'

Such an edited backdrop of different aesthetics – of old and new – also has another big plus point for the bedroom. It creates a timeless framework so you can freshen up your sleep space should you want to add in some bedroom trends that work for you later on.

1. Go for unexpected bold color

(Image credit: Bethany Adams Interiors )

You might assume that a neutral color palette is the number one style mantra for transitional bedrooms, the ultimate blank canvas for such an eclectic mix. Not necessarily so, say the interior design experts.

While there is always a place for top-to-toe neutrals like sand, putty and string, bold color works really well in the transitional bedroom too. Kentucky-based interior designer, Bethany Adams, has vast experience designing and decorating historic homes but always with a dash of modern. And one of the best ways to combine the two is with a bold color backdrop.

In this 1920s Tudor revival property, Adams painted the walls of the principal bedroom in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. It exudes a dramatic yet timeless elegance against the custom-made bed painted in Brinjal. The look is finished off with homespun-style bedding, mismatched pastel lamps and a contemporary Noguchi ceiling lantern, creating the ‘Shaker-Deco’ vibe the client wanted.

'There is a misconception that neutral means gray,' says Bethany. 'This dark navy is a very versatile neutral and can easily be updated through the years as tastes change. Choose a strong neutral and have fun with accent colors – you cannot go wrong.'

2. Choose a focal point in transitional bedrooms

(Image credit: Matthew Williamson/Belmond La Residencia)

Selecting a focus in transitional bedroom design is a good starting point. Try a print, a pattern or a piece of furniture, something you love, a statement piece you can layer with details.

'For the bedroom, choose a key focus, maybe it’s a vintage-style wallpaper or a traditional four-poster bed, and search for the perfect modern complement which could be a sleek nightstand or a patterned rug,' says British interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'No matter what you go for, never stop searching, always give in to your curiosity and if you love something, bring it home. This may be a slower method of finding what you need, but once you have it, you'll love it forever. Buying less and buying better is the key here.'

In this joyful, colorful bedroom, the beautiful Rosanna Trellis wallpaper – from Williamson’s collection with Osborne & Little – is used to pattern drench the walls. The delicate and ditsy floral print is contrasted with a graphic striped lampshade and tile-inspired bedding. For an extra modern twist, the traditional bed frame is lacquered in a bold Yves Klein electric blue.

3. Embrace cleaner lines

(Image credit: Future/Anna Stathaki)

Transitional bedroom décor is about balance. It’s neither too modern nor too traditional. The key is to pitch the look somewhere in the middle by introducing cleaner lines and bedroom furniture with a pared-back silhouette. It’s a premise that Texas-based interior designer Kim Armstrong swears by in her work.

'You don’t have the ornateness of more traditional bedroom furniture, but you don’t have the modern styling of uber-modern furniture either. It’s like you take a traditional style and just straighten up the lines a bit,' she explains.

The middle-ground aesthetic also extends to pattern choice too. 'For instance, in a rug, you might have some of the shapes of a traditional oriental, but the pattern is larger, the color palette feels fresher, which moves the design into a more modern direction.'

4. Add texture for a cozy bedroom ambience

(Image credit: Eric Piasecki)

Creating comfortable surroundings with fabric and texture is a key aesthetic of transitional bedroom design. Think upholstered headboards, antique rugs, textured linens, even a hint of cashmere. This quintessential, transitional bedroom is a showcase of cozy, feel-good fabrics mixed with classic silhouettes and bold bedroom wallpaper.

'This design philosophy is not just about the physical elements but also about invoking a serene and timeless ambiance, appealing to those who seek a refuge from the ever-changing world outside,' declares New York-based interior designer Kati Curtis. 'The property is in the West Village, New York, and is a second home for the couple, who reside in Palm Springs full time. They wanted a ‘cozy’ home in NYC that was reflective of their modern tastes while respecting the Victorian roots of the home.'

The layering of texture and decorating with pattern is pivotal: a rich blend of emerald velvet on the headboard, faux fur cushions, and a bold botanical print wallpaper in vintage gold and green. That’s not forgetting the original tin ceiling to maximize the cocoon-like space Kati wanted to achieve.

5. Nail neutrals in transitional décor

(Image credit: Noah Webb)

'When it comes to bedroom color palettes, we often favor blending neutral and subtle tones to create a serene backdrop,' explains Rebecca Larn, associate director of global interior design and architecture studio, Elicyon. 'This allows for diverse design elements to coexist harmoniously.'

This cool, calm and collected bedroom, by California-based interior designer, Lucie Ayres of 22 Interiors, certainly shows off all the benefits of a neutral palette if you’re not into color.

'Transitional style in design is like a stylish friend who can seamlessly mix modern and vintage clothing and accessories,' says Lucie 'Neutrals are often the modern element. Pale shades of blues and greens, mixed with cream, beige and white have a calming effect on the eye and therefore skew more modern. These understated hues are unlike many traditional prints that tend to be saturated with color.'

'So, if you mix a colorful antique rug, tone it down with a neutral fabric like we did with this bed and sofa, and create a true transitional moment.'

6. Be playful with print

(Image credit: House of Hackney)

Transitional bedrooms certainly honor the period features of a property. But the most successful schemes add a modern twist. One way to do this, is with a playful use of fabric.

In this guest bedroom by House of Hackney, the gorgeous Hollyhocks fabric is used to pattern drench the bed. This exaggerated use of print transforms an uninspiring space into an eye-catching room your guests will never want to leave!

'Be playful with print, whether that’s investing in a statement headboard or giving a beloved family heirloom some love,' explains Chloe Vince, decorating consultant at House of Hackney. 'Hollyhocks is the perfect print to refresh any scheme and will give you that wow factor for a guest room. Although it is fun, it's also very restful and a great way to bring the outside in.'

7. Clash color and pattern with confidence

(Image credit: James MacDonald)

The best transitional bedrooms are a mix and match of color, pattern, and furniture. However, such an eclectic mood rarely happens all at once. So, the advice from the design experts is to take your time.

'We love layering different colors, patterns, and furnishings,' says London-based interior designer Kate Guinness. 'Mixing different patterns and prints in a room is a fine balance though, so we would advise not to rush it. While it can feel nice to have everything decided in one go, we tend to approach room schemes as a series of layers to be built up.'

It can take a skilled design eye to put together such diverse styles and hues and come up with an effortlessly cool and harmonious look. But one takeaway tip from Kate is to invest in a good bedroom rug. 'We tend to use a lot of vintage rugs and often slot these in once the basic scheme is in place. But there is no right or wrong way to do this. Many designers start with a rug and build up a room the opposite way around.'

The best places to shop vintage online will have hundreds of options to choose from depending on the color and style you are after – try 1stDibs, Chairish and Etsy.

Transitional bedrooms are the perfect approach if you want to design a home that never dates. The mix of old and new and the blending of different interior design styles transcends trends but still allows room to bring in current styles too. Essentially, the key to transitional style is to just decorate in a way you love to create a characterful space that reflects the person within it.

How to decorate with a moody color palette – everything you need to know

Molly Malsom — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 11:00:16 +0000

Decorating with a moody color palette can feel daunting – there is always a great emphasis on making spaces brighter and lighter, and a dark color palette suggests going against this. However, when done the right way, moody colors can add depth and personality to a room without creating a dingy feel to the space.

Deep, moody hues can enrich any interior, and there are plenty of colors to choose from. With complimentary shades and carefully chosen decorative elements, you can curate a fresh, unique space that showcases your style and character.

If you're not sure where to start, or simply aren't sure of the right color ideas to choose, we've asked the experts to share their favorite hues and top tips for decorating with moodier shades.

What is a moody color palette?

(Image credit: Wilson Studio LA/Anna Meisel)

A moody color palette covers shades that feel dark and rich in tone. Interiors that are considered moody feel bold and full of character – think dark green hues, the deepest blue or rich brown tones. 'The objective is to achieve a space that exudes richness and drama while retaining an air of sophistication and coziness,' explains Liz Wilson, co-founder and creative director at Wilson Studio LA.

If you've become used to neutral, minimalist interiors, you might feel a moody color palette isn't quite right for your home, but dark hues suit almost any style of space. 'Don’t be afraid to use rich, moody colors,' says Hannah Yeo, senior manager of color marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'From farmhouses to Tudor to modern homes, deep colors fit various architectural style homes.'

How to decorate with a moody color palette

(Image credit: Matthew Williamson/Damian Russell)

When decorating with a moody color palette, it's more than just filling a room with dark colors, rather striking a balance between a rich scheme and an inviting atmosphere. 'Infusing moody hues into your space doesn't have to cast a shadow over its warmth and allure. As with everything in interiors and design, balance and contrast are key,' explains interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'It's all about finding that harmonious interplay between darkness and brightness, creating a space that feels both warm and sophisticated,' he adds.

There are different ways to incorporate moody colors into your home depending on how confident you feel about using them. 'I love it when the whole room is enveloped in one color including the ceiling,' says interior designer Meghan Eisenberg.

You might be wondering should you paint your ceiling the same color as your walls, but color-drenching has soared in popularity recently and for good reason. Enveloping a space in color creates a cozy scheme, and avoids that sense of a room feeling incomplete with a glaring white ceiling.

(Image credit: Meghan Eisenberg)

Not everyone enjoys a space filled with color, but that doesn't mean you should shy away from moody color palettes. Instead, consider decorating in a more paired back way, while still maintaining that sense of drama dark tones create. 'If painting all four walls in dark colors is too much, there are other ways to bring in a moody vibe to the space. Start small with an accent wall. Pair it with a softer version or nuanced neutrals to lighten up the room,' says Hannah Yeo.

If you want to embrace the painted ceiling trend in a more subtle manner, painting just the ceilings in a moody color can add a fun feature. 'If you have high ceilings, a darker colored ceiling can help make the room feel intimate. Imagine a glossy dark charcoal ceiling, reflecting the chandelier lights; it’s dramatic, unexpected and intriguing,' Hannah adds.

(Image credit: Matthew Williamson/Cassie Nicholas)

Although the wall color is integral to the overall aesthetic of a moody scheme, the furniture and decorative items hold just as much importance. 'Think of your larger furniture pieces as the bold showstoppers, painted in rich, deep tones that anchor the room. Then, let vibrant accessories contrast and complement these pieces, casting light and injecting pops of color into the scene. These could be a bright lampshade, printed cushions or rugs, or a more neutral vase,' Matthew suggests.

Smaller accessories are a great starting point when you begin decorating with a moody color palette. Even if you bite the bullet and drench your space in darker paint colors, the decorative elements help to ground a room and create cohesion. 'It is important to bring in highlights through finishes and fabrics,' adds Meghan. 'By carefully curating these elements, you can ensure that while the space is enveloped in moody hues, it remains inviting and dynamic, striking the perfect balance between drama and comfort.'

How to avoid making rooms feel uninviting with a moody color palette

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball/Josh Schulman)

One of the main concerns with dark colors is that a space will become dingy and uninviting. However, there are plenty of ways to avoid this, and rather create a moody living room that still feels light and welcoming. 'To mitigate the risk of the room feeling excessively dim and unwelcoming, we integrate floral prints and brass accents, while also incorporating tactile elements such as velvets and mohair,' says Liz.

The obvious way to brighten a dark scheme is to introduce more light into the space. 'Light is a vital part when selecting colors, especially with darker hues. Large rooms with an abundance of light can effortlessly embrace darker colors. The natural light brings out the undertones of the color as the sun rises and falls,' explains Hannah.

The effect of your chosen colors will also be affected by the direction the room faces. 'Sunny south-facing rooms will bring out the hidden undertones of these shades, but in north-facing spaces which receive little natural light, these shades will often appear darker,' explains Patrick O’Donnell , brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

If you're working with a space that doesn't benefit from any natural light, introducing the right artificial light can offer the same effect. This is also where decorative accents can come into play. 'For rooms with little to no natural light, bring in lighter color accents to balance the room. Light floor colors, creamy textiles and reflective surfaces provide a visual break while heightening the darker hue resulting in a well-defined, polished look,' suggests Hannah.

What colors work best in a moody color palette?

Green

(Image credit: Future)

A color that has dominated trends in recent years, green is a versatile shade that leans perfectly into the moody color palette. Think dark forest greens and deep emerald hues – this color can add a richness and sophistication you might not expect.

'Green is my go-to color for bolder schemes. Lush and dense shades of green feature prominently in my work, as they add depth and intrigue to the space and take center stage without becoming overwhelming,' says Matthew Williamson.

'Deep, jewel-toned greens for me project luxury, glamour, and decadence, and I love to pair them with the softer, more calming green tones on the spectrum to achieve a balanced effect. That’s the great thing about decorating with green, the options are so broad they can be applied to any scheme,' he adds.

Dark green is most commonly associated with kitchens, but this tone can work wonders in any room in the home. 'Consider dressing up a dining area or entertainment space with Beau Green 2054-20. Hints of reflecting accents, such as glass, mirrors and metallic elements, add sparkle for a glamourous effect,' says Hannah Yeo.

Blue

(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)

Blue is a shade most people feel quite comfortable using, and rich, deep hues look striking in a moody scheme. 'Another color I feel very comfortable using for bold, moody schemes is blue,' says Matthew Williamson.

'If you want impact and intensity, you can’t go wrong with a deep, inky blue. It is an incredibly versatile shade that can work for both ultra-contemporary interiors and traditional properties, and it instantly gives a decadent, cocooning feeling that elevates the room,' he adds.

If drenching a main room in dark blue feels too overwhelming, start by trialing it in a smaller room, such as a utility room or bathroom. Blue is a classic bathroom color anyway, so introducing it in a deeper tone feels like a smaller adjustment if you're not used to working with a moody color palette.

Brown

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Brown paint colors have certainly enjoyed a resurgence recently, and they're set to endure. 'Rich browns are always a good choice,' says Patrick O’Donnell. 'Using Tanner’s Brown or Salon Drab in a dark living room will bring a much-needed touch of warmth,' he adds.

Brown can often feel like a moody color palette's answer to neutrals thanks to its ability to pair with an abundance of other tones, and the versatility of different brown shades. Hannah Yeo recommends Benjamin Moore's Wenge AF-180, which she describes as 'a rich chocolate brown that envelops a space.'

'This versatile hue gives you the dramatic and grandeur look without using a vibrant color. Its earthy neutral undertone provides comfort and calmness making it a great choice for bedrooms, home offices and reading nooks,' says Hannah.

Decorating with a moody color palette doesn't result in dingy uninviting spaces, and it certainly doesn't remove more vibrant hues from schemes. The key to a successful design using darker colors is to stick to complimentary shades, and only use as much paint as you feel comfortable with. Whether you lean into a color-drenched space, add an accent wall or introduce rich tones through decorative details, a moody color palette can be introduced to homes of any size and style.

Designer Joy Moyler recounts how architecture influences her approach to design

Joy Moyler — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 03:00:33 +0000

It's everywhere you look. Simple, complex, inviting, or eroding. It can evoke much conversation with its dramatic flair, or make you feel empty and lost when something is missing. It offers shelter from the storm and envelops the lives we create for ourselves.

It is architecture. The diversity of styles expands the test of time, across all civilizations. One of my favorite design library treasures is Sir Banister Fletcher’s A History of Architecture. You can find me lost in the drawings, balustrade designs, and expanded style definitions, and I’m always on a quest to discover more.

My primary professional focus is interior design but it is architecture that brought me here. A trip to Spain started it all when a chip of stone from the facade of Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia hit me in the face. Literally! Thoughts of studying fashion design soon faded and my foray into the architectural rabbit hole began.

The Old Barn by Joy Moyler Interiors (Image credit: Simon Upton)

To date, I love spaces with a historical reference. New York’s Metropolitan Museum is a favorite structure. It is a classical beacon, and I am a classicist at heart. A highlight of my career is the opportunity to work on international projects. One is a golf resort outside Moscow. The building’s architecture was designed by my dear friend Gregory Tuck and the brief was ‘to create classical architectural spaces with both contemporary and traditional decor and furnishings, decorative elements and references’. Happy to say, we nailed it!

Another is the restoration and refresh of a 19th-century listed estate in Middlesex, England, for a young family. The challenge there was holding on to the structure’s rich history – original wide plank floors and deep mahogany millwork – while creating timely new modern spaces for young children to relate to.

Both projects excited me a great deal. I love studying the history of a space, the culture, the people, the design references, the exhibits. It becomes full immersion. My approach is to let the architecture inform the interior. They need to be relatable. I do not want to design a space in England that does not respect the history, or a home in Italy that is devoid of its culture and craftsmanship. Integrating traditional and modern items into a space tells a stronger story when respect is present. I am always led by the people –the culture first.

Cape Cod project by Joy Moyler Interiors (Image credit: James McDonald)

This is not to say I don’t appreciate the cleanliness of super-modern architecture. Often, it is a breath of fresh air. A visual cleansing after all the heavy details that come from neoclassical, beaux arts, and Victorian styles can be quite refreshing. Strangely, it can be more time-consuming to detail seamless modern architecture, as any defects show in its crispness.

No particular architectural style may be a favorite. But perhaps, if nothing else, it creates interest. A sense of wonder to travel a rabbit hole into inquiry. Perhaps a series of ‘why and how’ will create a new path. What fun it is to pause and to give in to the things around us. We may see a building every day, and then one day it stops us in our tracks. The sun may hit it differently. And perhaps we may even get hit on the head by a crumbly bit.

Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer's Venice Beach home is a modern architectural jewel – listed for $8 million

megan.slack@futurenet.com (Megan Slack) — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:28 +0000

Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, the couple known for co-starring in HBO’s True Blood, are selling their SoCal home for $8 million.

The duo purchased the former beach house, located close to the Venice Beach Boardwalk, in 2009 for $2.2 million* and spent the seven years that followed transforming the abode into an exciting example of modern architecture. Alongside celebrated architect David Hertz, the couple wrapped the distinct boxy structure entirely in Alaskan yellow cedar, juxtaposing the concrete floors and harsh steel pillars and railings.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

Complete with a light-filled open-plan living space, a Zen garden, a swimming pool, and a rooftop deck (overlooking the Pacific), the property is a stand-out listing in California (and one of the world's best homes currently on the market).

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

Inside, the home exhibits an airy open-plan living space across its third floor (to maximize access to light and access to the ocean views and breeze).

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

The main living area exemplifies the Organic Modern aesthetic, complete with rustic wooden furnishings and tactile textures alongside various houseplants. The dining area is an entertainer's dream, featuring a quirky gallery wall and an unconventional chandelier above the wooden dining table.

The space opens out to a grassy terrace area that's surrounded by tall trees for added privacy.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

The living area flows into the chef-style kitchen, complete with a large island, unpainted cabinets, and steel accents that pay homage to the raw, industrial feel that runs throughout the home.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

In a break from convention, the five bedrooms sit on the floor beneath the living and dining area. These spaces all exhibit the same bohemian-style aesthetic and eco-friendly design quirks, including energy-efficient lighting.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

Other notable features include a Zen garden, a sauna, a spa, a fitness room, and a partially covered swimming pool where swimmers can enjoy the wooden architectural assets in all their glory.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

According to property data acquired by *Robb Report, Anna and Stephen first tried to sell their home for $14 million in 2020; however, they were unable to find a buyer. Since then, the home has been on and off the market at lower prices, now at $8 million.

(Image credit: Anthony Barcelo)

David Kramer and Ruby Fay of Hilton & Hyland currently hold the listing.

Shop our bohemian interiors edit

Inspired by Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer's home? We can recreate a similar space with these bohemian picks below.

Pierre Jeanneret 051 Chair

From $3,600 at 1stDibs

Wooden Storage Chest

$1,425.00 at Etsy

Zahra Natural Multicolour Tufted Rug

$559.00 at Ruggable

Carrie Underwood's innovative lighting technique perfectly 'celebrates the height and architecture' of her home

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 21:00:50 +0000

Lighting has the power to define our spaces. From the trend of rejecting the 'big light' to the difference that a new lightbulb can make, these illuminating pieces are a focal point that completely shifts the energy of the home. In Carrie Underwood's house, a collection of long pendant lights is the star of the show.

Carrie's lighting idea brings together a collection of almost 20 blown glass balls, each encasing a lightbulb, hanging from the ceiling. Each light hits at a different height, creating visual interest and drawing the eye upwards in her beautiful living room.

The experts approve. Interior designer Jove Meyer states: 'Carrie Underwood's home has fabulous suspended glass light orb installations that are not only chic but add a contemporary vibe to her country home!' The modern living room look livens up the classic wood of the space.

@carrieunderwood
Living in the country be like...
♬ original sound - Carrie Underwood

Experts also believe that the pendant look makes Carrie's living room ceilings look higher. Jove states, 'With a ceiling that high, the multiple hanging lights look so great and help bring the eyes up to celebrate the height and architecture of the space.'

Melissa Read, head of design at Studio Burntwood, adds: 'This pendant light fixture is ideal for highlighting the double-height space and creating a focal point in Carrie Underwood's open-plan living space. This design features varying height orbs, which create a soft distribution of light.'

Furthermore, they are perfect for use in front of a large window, like Carrie's. Jove says, 'These lights look fabulous during the day, with the sunlight reflecting off of the glass orbs, I can imagine them at night, dimmed low and creating a moody and romantic vibe that is perfect for dinner or a cuddle and movie on the sofa!'

However, if you are thinking of installing this look in your own home, remember, that it's not a one-size-fits-all approach. Jove warns: 'The downside to these fab glass orbs is cleaning them, at that height and having so many they must be a pain to dust and manage, but I am sure she has people for that!' If you don't have a lot of time for cleaning, this might not be the best option.

Melissa advises: 'Quality lighting design has the power to instantly transform any space, and it is worth investing in. It's crucial to choose the right type of lighting based on its purpose and the desired atmosphere. For task lighting, like reading or cooking, you'll need a fixture that produces directional light. Ambient lighting, on the other hand, can be subtle and diffused, creating a warm and calming atmosphere. If possible, we'd recommend opting for dimmable lighting as it gives you complete control. '

Shop the look

Long Pendant Lighting

This long, hanging, blown glass pendants can be used all together or one at a time to create different looks.

If you love Carrie's lights, and you have a high ceiling, this look just might be perfect.

Emma Stone's LA home is equal parts charming and elegant – and it's selling for just under $4 million

hannah.ziegler@futurenet.com (Hannah Ziegler) — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:00:16 +0000

Fresh off the heels of her award-winning performance in Poor Things, Emma Stone has listed her Spanish-style home in Los Angeles for just shy of $4 million. While the world her Poor Things character, Bella Baxter, inhabited included Gaudi-esque, wacky interiors, Emma's own home is warm and inviting, blending its 1920s heritage with modern additions and restorations.

The two-story 1926 abode has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, grassy front- and backyards, and a private guesthouse. Highlights include heritage details, like exposed beam ceilings and the tiled courtyard, among plenty of other charms.

Let's take a closer look, shall we?

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

The exterior is modest but refined, featuring a terracotta-tiled walkway leading to the painted, mint-green front door. Green seems to be a main selling point of the home, with the freshly manicured lawn and leafy trees shading the sunny home in the Comstock Hills neighborhood.

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

The living area is infused with bright pops of color, complimenting the daylight streaming through the windows. Green ceilings contrast against hot pink throw pillows, while house plants and the glass coffee table bring a classy touch to the space.

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

The living space offers much to be admired, but we can't help but note the opposing shapes that make the home feel fluid and charming. The rounded archway softens the room, while the white ceiling beams bring a modern-country aesthetic that feels quintessentially British, despite its Californian zipcode.

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

If you've ever wondered whether Emma Stone is a dog or cat person, look no further than her lounge (above) for your answer. A gallery wall of dog paintings hovers over an electric teal couch. The lime green lamps sitting on wicker bar cats on either side of the sofa, along with the patterned throw pillows and coffee table, make this quirky corner delightfully cohesive.

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

All white cabinetry, wicker seating, and a long glass dining table make this kitchen bright, airy and inviting.

(Image credit: Ryan Lahiff) (Image credit: Ryan Lahiff for Sotheby’s International Realty )

A tub with a view – the delicate details in this bathroom, such as the scalloped light fixture and floral painting, add to the calming ambiance of this sunny space.

Eric Lavey of Sotheby’s International Realty – Beverly Hills Brokerage represents Emma Stone.

What colors go with a brown couch? 8 of the best colors to elevate this versatile, neutral tone

Lara Sargent — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:00:12 +0000

Brown is experiencing something of a renaissance in our homes – and it’s easy to see why. It’s a color that has peaked and troughed in popularity through the decades, including mid-century palettes and 1970s retro. But now, the love for this deeper neutral is on the rise for 2024 – and a brown couch is a staple, a simple way to bring the shade into your home.

Today, a brown couch is a versatile piece of furniture that will suit every style tempo. Whether you choose a dark chocolate velvet or a light tan leather, a brown couch is a timeless investment that won’t let you down.

So, if you’re considering investing in a brown couch for your living room, it’s good to know which colors can be paired with this earthy shade. Here we asked interior designers which color combinations they think work best.

8 best colors to pair with a brown couch

As we mentioned brown couches may have been on the out over the past few years, but as interior design trends are starting to move away from our ever-loved grays and whites to warmer colors, the brown couch is making a comeback.

However, bringing a living room with a brown couch up to date for 2024 is about the colors and textures and styles you pair it with. So what are the best colors to go with a brown couch? We asked interior designers for their top tips.

1. Create a tonal look with layers of neutrals

(Image credit: Naomi Astley Clarke/Paul Massey)

For a warm, cocooning space, pair dark brown seating with fellow deep shades of umber, chocolate and walnut on the walls and ceiling. Then lift with lighter, golden accents.

As interior designer Naomi Astley Clarke says, 'Brown’s appeal is often linked to the color’s ability to make us feel close to and grounded by the earth. It’s such a versatile and earthy tone, yet some still shy away from it, worried it might make their home feel dark and dated. The key to achieving a chic brown scheme is to only employ as much as your space can handle and to balance it out with thoughtful color combinations.

'Pair a rich, brown sofa with warm creams, dusky pinks, and sage greens to uplift and freshen. If you’re looking to create a darker, moodier scheme, employ pops of color such as golden hues and yellow tones. This will instantly energize the space.'

2. Soften a brown couch with earthy taupes

(Image credit: Arsight)

Located in Tribeca, New York, this chic apartment is a considered, sophisticated design where varying tones of brown combine to create a really restful living space. It has hints of modern retro thanks to the boxy, low-slung sofa made up of a black-stained oak frame and soft brown upholstery.

'Our aim was to choose the most natural upholstered materials available, while also considering durability to ensure it lasts for many years,' explains NYC-based interior designer Artem Kropovinsky founder of Arsight. 'The color of the sofa was chosen to echo the natural hues of clay, sand and limestone for the walls and ceiling and to align with the concept of ‘quiet luxury’.'

The result is a timeless and comfortable space to live in, a fusion of Scandinavian design and mid-century elements. The use of lighter, warm taupe tones gives the brown couch a lift, everything still feels soft but there's freshness too.

3. Use a brown couch to ground paler tones

(Image credit: Audrey Scheck)

'Brown is having a huge resurgence in interior design, and we don’t anticipate the trend going anywhere in the coming year,' states Texas-based interior designer Audrey Scheck. 'We love utilizing brown couches to bring this warm hue into a space. To complement a brown couch, lean into an earth-toned color palette. Opt for pillows and textiles in shades of green, beige, and blue to create a grounding and cozy environment.'

Keeping upholstery fabrics fresh and neutral but playing with lots of different textures is key to adding depth and interest to a brown couch.

'It’s also important not to overfill your space, to allow lots of room around your couch for a more contemporary, gallery-style feel,” adds Holly Beazley, creative director of architectural interior design studio Elicyon. 'This can also be enhanced by lots of natural light, if that’s at all possible.'

4. Bring in both warm and cooler colors

(Image credit: Tim Lenz)

In this open-plan family room, designed by J. Patryce Design, a custom chaise in warm brown chenille is complemented with bother deeper brown and blue pillows. Being a neutral a brown couch can handle a mix of warm and cool colors.

'We opted for a custom chaise/sectional for maximum seating and family lounging,' says Joan Enger, principal and owner of New York-based J. Patryce Design. 'We complemented the light brown sofa with rich plum and teal hues and a custom lumbar pillow in Dedar fabric to tie the palette together.'

The combination of plush woven chenille in for the couch and decorative linen pillows adds texture and pattern. A custom rug in a cream and light teal grid pattern complements the tones and creates visual interest.

Built around five years ago, the Tudor-style home is located in Tenafly, a charming residential suburb of New Jersey. 'We added warmer architectural details and custom enhancements to the original design,' adds Enger.

5. Elevate a brown couch with pale blue

(Image credit: Amy Bartlam/22 Interiors)

'Our favorite color to pair with a brown sofa would be a pale blue,' says Lucie Ayres, principal of interior design agency 22 Interiors. 'The combination feels both sophisticated, warm and timeless.'

This light and airy living space is part of a newly built single-storey property based in Beverlywood in Los Angeles, California. 'We went with brown leather since the room is so bright with lots of natural light, bright white walls, and tall ceilings,' she adds. 'The brown leather is an incredibly grounding material – it will patina with wear and age and look beautifully worn in time. We added a pale blue velvet tufted ottoman in the center of the sectional as a soft contrast to the cool leather and as a way to dress up the room with a dash of formality.'

6. Create an on trend combination with purple

(Image credit: Jessica Brydson Photography/Goldenbird Design)

'A brown sofa can offer a great neutral foundation,' declares McKenzy Golding, founder of California-based Goldenbird Design. 'I’ve been particularly loving browns and purples together lately. In this San Francisco living room, we painted the baseboards and bay window trim in Farrow & Ball’s Brinjal. The deep aubergine color paired with mixed metal accent tables adds a laid back sophistication to the brown boucle sofa.'

7. Lean into the warmth of a brown couch with a muted pink

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

A brown couch is the perfect interior design tool to anchor a space. The modern silhouette of this rich, cocoa-colored sofa acts as a neutral focal point and allows the playful combination of Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster and Lichen to make a statement on the walls and ceiling.

'Brown furnishings have an effortless versatility, complementing most colors from dramatic dark shades to soft pinks and cool neutrals,' explains Charlotte Cosby, creative director at Farrow & Ball. 'The warm undertones of Setting Plaster particularly lend itself to rich browns and mustard furnishings.'

8. Pair brown with brown

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

Layer deep brown saturated hues for a dramatic space that’s also highly liveable thanks to the neutral scheme.

'For a bold look, opt for brown-on-brown by matching the walls to the sofa,' advises Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore. 'This creates an ultra-luxe, all-encompassing scheme that exudes an intense feeling of grandeur. Pair with staple vintage-style pieces such as traditional, gold brassware to create a classic and timeless look.'

'Varying shades of brown and green will always work together too as they mimic forest colors, creating a pleasing and natural mood,' adds Helen.

Shop the best brown couches

Camel Brown Velvet Sofa

Bowen Leather Sofa

Tufted Velvet Sofa

Brown in general is looking to be a huge color trend for 2024, and as part of that brown couches are becoming living room staples once more. A couch is a pretty dominant piece of furniture so it's key you consider it as one of the main shades in your color scheme and work out what colors it will work best with. Luckily, brown, even in its deepest form, works like a neutral and there are plenty of options depending on the look you are after.

Best architectural plants – shape your winter garden with these textural choices

sarahwilsonjournalist@gmail.com (Sarah Wilson) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 07:00:09 +0000

Add architectural plants to your backyard and you'll soon see the benefits over the winter months. The bare bones of your winter garden are revealed for all to see when flowers fade and the leaves have fallen.

This is where architectural plants come in, adding a much-needed focal point during the colder seasons. Although unusual in appearance and often of tropical origin, they're easy to grow in non-tropical climates.

Their spiky, bold shapes will make their presence known as winter plants, and as many of them are evergreen they will add color all year round.

Leave the seed heads on some of your flowers for winter shape (Image credit: Patsy Davies / Alamy Stock Photo)

7 architectural plants to select for your backyard

'Select architectural plants that are suited to your climate and growing conditions,' advises Janet Loughrey of Garden Design.

'Consider the style of your home. Spiky plants such as yucca and agave may be more suited to a southwestern style landscape, while palms and canna lilies will be compatible with a bungalow or Mediterranean-style home.'

Many of these winter garden favorites are drought-tolerant and would make fine choices for xeriscaping.

1. Phormium 'Sundowner'

(Image credit: Peter Turner / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: 9-12
Height: 1ft
Spread: 3ft

Phormium 'Sundowner' is an evergreen perennial also known as New Zealand flax. The arching, sword-shaped leaves of this variety add a touch of drama to the winter garden. It forms a large clump with handsome leaves, that are a bronze-green color, tinged with red and rose-pink edges.

Adding year-round color to a backyard, it likes a spot in full sun or part shade. It is frost hardy, but might need a little extra protection if temperatures plummet.

2. Black bamboo

(Image credit: Newman / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: zone 7-11
Height: 25ft
Spread: 15ft

This elegant evergreen bamboo features gracefully arching slender jet-black canes, with delicately feathered leaves. It’s a must for a modern garden, especially small urban spaces. It’s a hassle-free option as it’s clump forming rather than invasive.

Every spring you get lush new foliage as the bamboo regenerates. It likes full sun or part shade in a sheltered spot, and will grow to such a height that it is excellent for screening purposes.

3. Miscanthus Nepalensis

(Image credit: Tom Cardrick / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: 8-9
Height: 5ft
Spread: 4ft

Also known as Himalayan fairy grass, this ornamental grass has arching, linear leaves and shimmering silky-textured flower plumes in late summer and fall. In winter the leaves and architectural seed heads turn a spectacular shade of bronze.

It likes a sunny, sheltered spot, and tends to be quite hardy when the chill sets in. It grows to around 4-5ft, so is ideal as a graceful addition to borders as part of your planting scheme without dwarfing other plants.

Silver Feather Maiden Grass at Nature Hills

This ornamental grass will add elegant plumes of silver to your flower bed. A great architectural option with a fair saving currently.View Deal

4. Mahonia 'Charity'

(Image credit: Susie McCaffrey / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: 8-9
Height: 20ft
Spread: 20ft

This stunning evergreen with its clusters of fragrant yellow flowers in winter makes a real focal point in the garden, adding sculptural shape as well as glowing color and a hint of scent.

The flowers of mahonia are set in rosettes of holly-like leaves, that fan out gracefully to add interesting structure. It is happy in full sun or partial shade, and is not too fussy where you plant it.

5. Eryngium

(Image credit: Jacky Parker / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: 5-9
Height: 4ft
Spread: 3ft

With their spiny ruff of leaves and striking cone-shaped flowers, these are beautiful plants to look at in winter, when they take on a steely gray color in the low light. Eryngium like a sunny position and work really well in Mediterranean-style gravel gardens, where they will grow up to 3ft tall.

As well as adding a bold statement in your garden, these are the stars of the show indoors too when used as the centerpiece for dried flower displays.

Also known as sea holly, eryngium will thrive in coastal gardens.

Blue Glitter Sea Holly at Nature Hills

This choice of sea holly is suitable for zones 5 through 9. It has bold violet color flowerheads as an added bonus to the spiky architectural shape.View Deal

6. Dogwood

(Image credit: Mike Russell / Shutterstock )

USDA zones: 5-9
Height: 8ft
Spread: 8ft

Also called cornus, dogwood is grown for its vivid winter stem color, which comes in spectacular orange, yellow and red shades that are revealed when the leaves fall in autumn.

Plant a few of them together to create a dramatic impact when the winter sun hits them, and there’s little else in the garden to demand your attention. They’re not fussy and will even thrive in damp and shady spots, but do best in a sunny place.

Red Twig Dogwood Shrub at Fast Growing Trees

This dogwood (also known as cornus) will give a bold color injection to a bare winter garden. The 2 gallon pot is currently 19% off. Fast Growing Trees also currently have a 25% discount on all orders over $200.View Deal

7. Agave parryi

(Image credit: Botany vision / Alamy Stock Photo)

USDA zones: 7-12
Height: 2ft
Spread: 3ft

Native to North America, the Agave parryi is a spectacular architectural plant with rosettes of large gray-blue leaves edged with maroon spines.

This agave is great for adding a touch of the exotic to a patio or gravel garden. Grow outdoors all year round in USDA zones 7-12. Otherwise it's possible to grow them in pots on a patio and bring them inside during the cold months.

FAQs

What is an architectural plant?

An architectural plant is one that adds structure and shape to a landscape.

'These may include plants with a weeping, upright or arching habit, or plants with leaves or flowers that are oversized or with a well-defined shape,' explains Janet Loughrey of Garden Design. 'These plants can be used to add visual interest to beds, borders and containers.'

Some examples include: Ornamental grasses, weeping cedar, agave, red hot poker, yucca, bear’s breeches (Acanthus), sea holly (Eryngium), canna lily, bamboo, windmill palm and boxwood.

Your climate should be the first consideration when choosing architectural plants.

Though low maintenance, they will only succeed if grown in the correct USDA hardiness zones. So be sure to check these before making a purchase to avoid disappointment.

5 celebrity homes that are available to rent on Airbnb

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 14:19:05 +0000

In recent years, homes formerly or currently owned by celebrities have been popping up all over the vacation rental platform Airbnb. Since there's no shortage of homes with a star-studded past for rent, we rounded up the best. Here's a peak inside Homes & Gardens' 5 favorite celebrity homes available on Airbnb.

These homes are full of interior design ideas too that you are definitely going to want to see.

1. Jimmi Hendrix's 1970s 'Gingerbread House' in Hawaii

(Image credit: Airbnb)

The adorable 'gingerbread house' is the 1970s haunt of legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix, the place he stayed while filming Rainbow Bridge. This hidden gem is romantically tucked away in the lush privacy of Hana. The remodeled 1930s studio cottage is equipped with a kitchenette, a large bathroom, and a custom-built shower. The gingerbread house's outdoor patio offers views of the property's plentiful fruit trees and lush sacred garden.

What it lacks in space it makes up for with its fabulous outdoor living room. The gingerbread house is an indoor/outdoor wonder.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

2. Julie Andrews's Rubber House Co in Accord, New York

(Image credit: Airbnb)

This architectural space is the perfect creative retreat for performers, academics, artists, and designers. The one-time home of Oscar-winner Julie Andrews, The Rubber House Co. is full of tactile surfaces and dappled light. Nestled among a set of prehistoric boulders on 7 acres of wild land, its outside is as beautiful as its insides. The modern design includes floor-to-ceiling windows and brightly colored surfaces. It's a quick drive to beautiful outdoor spaces like the Mohonk Nature Preserve.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

If you're looking for ultimate comfort, the primary bedroom has 270 views of the property's meadow and woods, a wooden deck, and a luxurious fireplace. The en suite includes a two-person tub looking out into the woods.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

3. Sonny & Cher's one time abode in LA

(Image credit: Airbnb)

This stylish 1954 Greta Grossman-designed home once housed the iconic pop stars, Sonny and Cher. The mid-century property includes incredible views of the San Fernando Valley and has a coveted location in the Lake Hollywood area. Its recently updated living room design has a stylish, boho-chic vibe. The 'tree house' is recognized as an architectural landmark by the LA Conservancy. What more could you want?

(Image credit: Airbnb)

4. Bobby Berk's 'Casa Tierra' California Airbnb

(Image credit: Airbnb)

'Casa Tierra,' as it's affectionately called by its Queer Eye host designer, is a beautiful and cozy California casual dream. Integrated seamlessly with the desert around it reflecting the colors and textures of the landscapes. The modern oasis has the unmistakable Bobby Berk touch. Even better, Bobby's design tips are scattered throughout the home for design-loving guests. From 7 custom-designed bedrooms each with its own personality to adorable casitas perfect for hosting, this home is absolutely beautiful.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

5. Bing Crosby's Palm Springs home

(Image credit: Airbnb)

This 1934 hacienda was once owned by famed actor Bing Crosby. Located in the Old Movie Colony, the villa is full of Spanish-style charm. Rustic details like exposed beams, brick floors, and old wood built-ins give the home a rustic warmth. The beautiful views and light-filled interiors make this the perfect place for a city getaway.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

From mid-century modern to farmhouse chic, there are celebrity homes to rent almost as diverse as the people who formerly owned them.

Bobby Berk has designed a desert oasis and it's available on Airbnb – take the tour

sophie.edwards@futurenet.com (Sophie Edwards) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 21:00:46 +0000

Bobby Berk's hip, modern style is admired by design lovers everywhere. The Queer Eye interior designer has a special talent for creating a home that perfectly reflects the personality and needs of its owner.

And while it's not a realistic option for many of us to have Bobby transform our own homes, you can still immerse yourself in his style, because he has listed, Casa Tierra, his beautifully restored Palm Desert home, on Airbnb.

The outside of Casa Tierra (Image credit: Airbnb)

Casa Tierra is the epitome of impeccable home decor. Described by the listing as 'any design admirer’s dream,' the home features furniture, artwork, and statement pieces chosen by Bobby Berk. Even better, it includes 'up close inspo' for design aficionados with tips and tricks for your own home decor from Bobby Berk showcased throughout the space.

Its 5,000 square feet include 7 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms with a capacity of up to 18 guests. It even has its own Instagram.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

The Spanish-style home reflects the modern California casual interior look. The design emulates the colors and textures of the surrounding Palm Desert landscape. It includes elements that allow you to enjoy both the indoors and outdoors of the surrounding area like covered balconies and onsite casitas. The outdoor living room offers the perfect spot to look out over the land and enjoy dinner with friends.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

One of the most stunning parts of the home is the living room decor. Bobby has accentuated the natural beauty of the white textured walls, high, dark wood ceilings, and terracotta floor tiles. The blue rug with white embroidery, linen sofa, and wooden table plays off the colors from the landscape coming in through the window. Large, rattan lamps hang from the ceiling, along each beam.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

The bedroom decor in Bobby Berk's Casa Tierra Airbnb is another part of the house to admire. Each bedroom is unique, designed to give every resident their own original space. The warm walls and stylish light fixtures make the rooms cozy and extra comfortable.

(Image credit: Airbnb)

Joining the ranks of Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, Bobby Berk has made his design-focused Casa Tierra available for rent on Airbnb. For any who love the Queer Eye host's style, a stay in Casa Tierra may be well worth it for the interior inspiration alone.

Right at Home by Bobby Berk

Bobby's latest book dives into how to create a space that makes you happy. Bobby teaches readers about building a home that makes an impact through design and organization tips.

Minimalist architecture and simply beautiful interiors are a match made in heaven for this Florida home

Karen Darlow — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 06:00:43 +0000

In the perfect marriage of architecture and interior design, this Florida home's cool white exterior walls are matched on the inside with a minimalist and monochromatic interior design that brings a sense of calm to the whole space, inside and out. One of the world's best homes, the 2020 new build has been constructed in a relatively small plot, just 80 feet by 80 feet. But as architect, Jeffrey Dungan explains, 'Sometimes restraints like this can force you into a creative direction you would have never imagined.'

It was a direction that turned out to really make the space unique and defined its aesthetic. Dungan's clients had given him carte blanche with the architecture of the new home, saying they didn't want to limit the creative process, but to see what Dungan would do if left alone with the process. Needless to say, they were delighted with the results.

'One thing that I enjoy trying to create is a sense of history that seems to have grown over time,' says Dungan, explaining his approach. 'Different styles from different eras blend together.'

How do you design interiors that are equally as appealing and striking as the home's exterior? In this case, it was a matter of getting Atlanta-based Beth Webb on board. Webb's monochromatic and organic interior schemes have created a zen-like sense of calm inside and around the home, that really complements its fine exterior.

Take the tour, to discover how architecture and interior design went hand in hand here to produce a balanced and beautiful living space, and discover along the way that monochromatic schemes can indeed be exciting.