Search results for "Unexpected" in Home Design Ideas
Joe McGuire DesignEmbracing the challenge of grounding this open, light-filled space, our Aspen studio focused on comfort, ease, and high design. The built-in lounge is flanked by storage cabinets for puzzles and games for this client who loves having people over. The high-back Living Divani sofa is paired with U-Turn Benson chairs and a "Rabari" rug from Nanimarquina for casual gatherings. The throw pillows are a perfect mix of Norwegian tapestry fabric and contemporary patterns. In the child's bedroom, we added an organically shaped Vitra Living Tower, which also provides a cozy reading niche. Bold Marimekko fabric colorfully complements more traditional detailing and creates a contrast between old and new. We loved collaborating with our client on an eclectic bedroom, where everything is collected and combined in a way that allows distinctive pieces to work together. A custom walnut bed supports the owner's tatami mattress. Vintage rugs ground the space and pair well with a vintage Scandinavian chair and dresser.
Combining unexpected objects is one of our favorite ways to add liveliness and personality to a space. In the little guest bedroom, our client (a creative and passionate collector) was the inspiration behind an energetic and eclectic mix. Similarly, turning one of our client's favorite old sweaters into pillow covers and popping a Native American rug on the wall helped pull the space together. Slightly eclectic and invitingly cozy, the twin guestroom beckons for settling in to read, nap or daydream. A vintage poster from Omnibus Gallery in Aspen and an antique nightstand add period whimsy.
Guta Louro DesignsThis hybrid apartment in New York, created almost exclusively for entertainment -but with seriousness of intent - carries influences from the 50’s, colors from the 60’s and unexpected chimes that give it character and personality.
Published in Living Decor Magazine and Casa Vogue magazine
Sarah Montgomery InteriorsSet in a former cap-and-gown factory in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, this 1,200-square-foot loft was reimagined as a layered, expressive home for an artistically minded client. What was once a tired builder-grade space is now a study in contrast: industrial bones softened by color, pattern, and personal history. Each room is defined by vibrant finishes—colorful cabinetry, statement tile, and a guest bath accented with unexpected purple grout (and a goose!)—all nodding to the client’s bold, creative spirit. Vintage family heirlooms mingle effortlessly with fresh textiles and sculptural lighting, weaving together nostalgia with a modern, eclectic space.
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Betsy Bassett InteriorsThis Maine residence reimagines the traditional coastal cottage, expanding its vernacular across more than 8,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Every room captures dramatic views of the rugged coastline, complemented by carefully curated fabrics and textures that echo the natural landscape. The grand foyer flows seamlessly into a formal living room and an intimate reading nook. At the heart of the home, a chef's kitchen opens to a custom walk-in pantry and a striking walnut bar. The first floor is completed by an elegant dining room and a four-seasons family room that blurs the boundary between interior and exterior. The primary suite features a custom fireplace crafted from locally sourced stone, while the primary bathroom frames unobstructed ocean vistas. The second floor also includes two guest bedrooms, a luxurious laundry room, and dedicated spaces for both homeowners—an art studio and a sophisticated lounge. The lower level reveals an unexpected delight: a two-lane bowling alley enhanced by custom-designed wallpaper, adding a playful counterpoint to the home's refined coastal elegance.
Sarah Montgomery InteriorsSet in a former cap-and-gown factory in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, this 1,200-square-foot loft was reimagined as a layered, expressive home for an artistically minded client. What was once a tired builder-grade space is now a study in contrast: industrial bones softened by color, pattern, and personal history. Each room is defined by vibrant finishes—colorful cabinetry, statement tile, and a guest bath accented with unexpected purple grout (and a goose!)—all nodding to the client’s bold, creative spirit. Vintage family heirlooms mingle effortlessly with fresh textiles and sculptural lighting, weaving together nostalgia with a modern, eclectic space.
Ann Lowengart InteriorsSet in the snowy enclave of Sugar Bowl, this modern Lake Tahoe ski chalet was designed with family gatherings in mind. Ann Lowengart brought an unexpected pop of personality to the home by incorporating gemstone hues throughout. In the living area, emerald greens and aubergines play off the natural wood and stone, creating a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The dining space opens up to panoramic views, with plush seating perfect for après-ski meals. Upstairs, jewel-toned bedrooms provide a playful, luxurious retreat after a day on the slopes. This home is a perfect blend of comfort, style, and alpine charm.
Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Snider & Metcalf Interior Design, LTD
Leading Interior Designers in Columbus, Ohio & Ponte Vedra, Florida
TOTAL CONCEPTSMinimalist concrete floor and gray floor great room photo in San Francisco with white walls
VanderHorn ArchitectsExample of a classic freestanding desk medium tone wood floor, brown floor and wallpaper home office design in New York with red walls
Trevor Fulmer DesignThis oceanfront retreat showcases dramatic and unexpected materials that elevate seaside living. A bold and moody materials palette and rich walnut woods are paired with sleek modern forms that create a sophisticated and comfortable space. Natural textures and coastal interior design finishes, such as seagrass and woven furniture, beautifully complement contemporary lighting and sculptural décor. Expansive windows invite abundant natural light, balancing the black and earth-tone color palette. Thoughtfully selected textural patterns, metallic finishes, curated artwork, and vintage pieces enhance this coastal contemporary interior design, resulting in a home that feels both elevated and inviting, perfect for beachside living.
Betsy Bassett InteriorsThis Maine residence reimagines the traditional coastal cottage, expanding its vernacular across more than 8,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Every room captures dramatic views of the rugged coastline, complemented by carefully curated fabrics and textures that echo the natural landscape. The grand foyer flows seamlessly into a formal living room and an intimate reading nook. At the heart of the home, a chef's kitchen opens to a custom walk-in pantry and a striking walnut bar. The first floor is completed by an elegant dining room and a four-seasons family room that blurs the boundary between interior and exterior. The primary suite features a custom fireplace crafted from locally sourced stone, while the primary bathroom frames unobstructed ocean vistas. The second floor also includes two guest bedrooms, a luxurious laundry room, and dedicated spaces for both homeowners—an art studio and a sophisticated lounge. The lower level reveals an unexpected delight: a two-lane bowling alley enhanced by custom-designed wallpaper, adding a playful counterpoint to the home's refined coastal elegance.
Sarah Montgomery InteriorsSet in a former cap-and-gown factory in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, this 1,200-square-foot loft was reimagined as a layered, expressive home for an artistically minded client. What was once a tired builder-grade space is now a study in contrast: industrial bones softened by color, pattern, and personal history. Each room is defined by vibrant finishes—colorful cabinetry, statement tile, and a guest bath accented with unexpected purple grout (and a goose!)—all nodding to the client’s bold, creative spirit. Vintage family heirlooms mingle effortlessly with fresh textiles and sculptural lighting, weaving together nostalgia with a modern, eclectic space.
Keene InteriorsThis powder room blends bold material contrast with artistic restraint, creating a space that feels intimate and gallery-inspired. Deep green plaster walls envelop the room in richness, providing a dramatic backdrop for the large-scale abstract artwork that anchors the composition. The tonal layering of warm neutrals within the art softens the palette while maintaining visual impact.
A striking marble accent wall introduces natural veining and texture, balancing the depth of the green walls with lightness and movement. The warm wood vanity adds grounding warmth, its clean lines and natural grain reinforcing the organic material story.
Above, the geometric ceiling detail creates an unexpected architectural moment, drawing the eye upward and adding dimension to the compact footprint. Sculptural accessories and thoughtful styling complete the vignette, resulting in a powder bath that feels curated, confident, and richly layered.
Sarah Montgomery InteriorsSet in a former cap-and-gown factory in Chicago’s North Center neighborhood, this 1,200-square-foot loft was reimagined as a layered, expressive home for an artistically minded client. What was once a tired builder-grade space is now a study in contrast: industrial bones softened by color, pattern, and personal history. Each room is defined by vibrant finishes—colorful cabinetry, statement tile, and a guest bath accented with unexpected purple grout (and a goose!)—all nodding to the client’s bold, creative spirit. Vintage family heirlooms mingle effortlessly with fresh textiles and sculptural lighting, weaving together nostalgia with a modern, eclectic space.
Purple Cherry Architecture & InteriorsSmall spaces provide the perfect canvas for unexpected moments. To include a sense whimsy in the powder room, the walls were wrapped in a playful jellyfish wallpaper.
Erica Peale DesignUnexpected details make the boldest statements. This Powder Room received the ultimate remodel. We started with this custom color monkey wallpaper, incorporated a black concrete fluted sink onto a floating marble vanity. Finished the space with new sconces and a tall oval mirror for a dramatic and elevated look!
Ancient Surfaces•Architects: Aires Mateus
•Location: Lisbon, Portugal
•Architect: Manuel Aires Mateus
•Years: 2006-20011
•Photos by: Ricardo Oliveira Alves
•Stone floor: Ancient Surface
A succession of everyday spaces occupied the lower floor of this restored 18th century castle on the hillside.
The existing estate illustrating a period clouded by historic neglect.
The restoration plan for this castle house focused on increasing its spatial value, its open space architecture and re-positioning of its windows. The garden made it possible to enhance the depth of the view over the rooftops and the Baixa river. An existing addition was rebuilt to house to conduct more private and entertainment functions.
The unexpected discovery of an old and buried wellhead and cistern in the center of the house was a pleasant surprise to the architect and owners.
Betsy Bassett InteriorsThis Maine residence reimagines the traditional coastal cottage, expanding its vernacular across more than 8,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Every room captures dramatic views of the rugged coastline, complemented by carefully curated fabrics and textures that echo the natural landscape. The grand foyer flows seamlessly into a formal living room and an intimate reading nook. At the heart of the home, a chef's kitchen opens to a custom walk-in pantry and a striking walnut bar. The first floor is completed by an elegant dining room and a four-seasons family room that blurs the boundary between interior and exterior. The primary suite features a custom fireplace crafted from locally sourced stone, while the primary bathroom frames unobstructed ocean vistas. The second floor also includes two guest bedrooms, a luxurious laundry room, and dedicated spaces for both homeowners—an art studio and a sophisticated lounge. The lower level reveals an unexpected delight: a two-lane bowling alley enhanced by custom-designed wallpaper, adding a playful counterpoint to the home's refined coastal elegance.
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