A New Home Honors a Historic Neighborhood

A New Home Honors a Historic Neighborhood

“Everybody who visits this house believes it’s been here for 100 decades,” says builder Chris Risher of RisherMartin Fine Homes. While he enjoys old homes, he and his wife started from the ground up for this one, building a new…

Budget Decorator: 15 Ways to Update Your Kitchen on a Dime

Budget Decorator: 15 Ways to Update Your Kitchen on a Dime

Whether you’re planning to invest your sweat equity at a full kitchen remodel or simply hope to make a few quick changes throughout the weekend, if every penny counts it’s important to choose projects that will produce a big impact…

Louver Doors Let Storage Breathe

Louver Doors Let Storage Breathe

True louver doors are an attractive doorway style that provides privacy and security while allowing for the free flow of air. Featuring angled horizontal slats, vented louvers admit light and air and are most often used for cabinets and laundry…

10 Toilet Features for Modern Life

10 Toilet Features for Modern Life

The biggest changes in Victorian houses have happened in the kitchen, making it virtually impossible to make an authentic replica without compromising on contemporary conveniences. The contemporary stovetop has replaced the wood-burning stove, the refrigerator has replaced the larder and…

Longer Room Leads to Deadly Chic in Manhattan

Longer Room Leads to Deadly Chic in Manhattan

A scant 330 square feet might not appear to leave room for flexibility, but Michelle Konar has put her creativity to work in this small space. An art director in an advertising communications company, she’s taken good advantage of the…

The Truth About Designers' Deadlines

The Truth About Designers' Deadlines

Designers cope with an aggressive program from time to time. And by”from time to time” I mean: Every. Single. Time. We face the perils of an impossible deadline, and we come out to the opposite side, frazzled, bleary eyed and…

European Heritage Animates an Illinois Home

European Heritage Animates an Illinois Home

Inspired by his celebrity father’s work, Marius Daugvila and his wife, Cheryl, remodeled their 1970s single-story ranch to pay tribute to the family’s Lithuanian heritage. Modern finishes and standard artwork mix in this warm, charming and handmade home that has…

Great Design Plant: Persimmon

Great Design Plant: Persimmon

In late autumn or early winter a leafless persimmon tree, branches bending beneath the weight of dozens (hundreds?) Of glistening orange fruits, looks like something from an early Japanese brush painting. Ahead of the fruit display, or combined with it,…

A Hilltop Family Home at Santa Cruz

A Hilltop Family Home at Santa Cruz

Inspired by memories of childhood houses, Enid and Jim Brock constructed their house from scratch on a carefully selected plot using an ocean view from Santa Cruz, California. “I needed every area to be cozy, with a bright corner where…

Elements of Contemporary Coastal Style

Elements of Contemporary Coastal Style

Contemporary coastal design is defined by clean lines and natural materials and textures — so go daring but stick to straightforward lines and basic finishes. Create a neutral backdrop with smooth steel, timber and woven materials. Add interest with statement…