2018 DHDA: Interiors

2018 Design Awards

Judges | Details | Exteriors | Interiors | Commercial Design
Homes | Rising Star | Reader’s Choice

Utility / Garage

Photo by KEN KOX

1st – M1 Concourse, with Robert and Julie Hertzberg

At this gathering spot for car-loving fanatics, experience the thrills of a challenging track and an automotive-themed living space. Buildouts and a color scheme create continuity between the first floor and mezzanine living space, while the drink rail is perfect for the track-viewing experience and watching the sunset. The elegance of a modern cigar/sports bar theme is combined with the grit Detroit is known for (GM Autoparts Sign, gas pump, a Shinola record player, and original 1960s and 1970s classic vinyl). Vrooom!

Laundry Room / Mud Room

Photo by beth singer

1st – VanBrouck | LUXE Homes, with Ellwood Interiors

In this spacious, cheerful mud hall, custom-designed, finely-finished millwork is abundantly featured in the built-in cubbies, window seat, gracious stairway, and vertical shiplap paneled walls, creating a room that’s both functional and beautiful. A charming 6-foot barn-style door opens to the spacious laundry/gardener’s room. Natural light floods into the space from the triple-mulled, double-hung windows of the laundry/ gardener’s room as well as the stairway windows and charming window seat. The classic stairway leads to the second-floor bedrooms and fully-finished lower level.

Specialty Room (Gym, Music, Billiards, Pet Area, Etc.)

Photo by JOSHUA MCCANN

1st – Orvosh Builders Inc.

The customer wanted curb-less showers in this finished basement project, so 5 yards of concrete were poured through the basement window and the shower floors were tapered to the drains so they were ready for tile without curbs. The wood sauna floor is recessed, to keep it flush with the tile and provide space for a drain below, for excess moisture. The sauna wall was built out of 2 x 6 boards so the drain lines could run through the wall, keeping the sauna and adjacent bedroom ceilings full height.

Conservatory / Screen Room / Sunroom

Photo by beth singer

1st – Jane Redfield Schwartz, Ltd., with Wechsler Construction, LLC

A kitchen addition made room for an eating area, a sitting area, and a porch. The sitting area is surrounded by Nana doors — which, when open, have retractable screens. The porcelain pavers are heated so this room can be used year-round. The cultured stone was added to the cooking wall and the interior and exterior walls of the eating area, to reflect the charm of an older home. A deck was added with a stepdown, which allows better views to the outdoors from all angles.

Wine Room

Photo by beth singer

1st – Vogue Furniture

Constructed of solid mahogany lumber with bookmatched crotch mahogany center panels, this formal space exudes a sense of quality and character. The bar has been meticulously finished in hand-applied French polish, executed with the same technique that has been used for over a century. While possessing an antique, fine-furniture feel, this space also provides hidden integrated appliances, bottle storage, and leaded-glass sliding doors that conceal glassware, resulting in the highest level of function.

Bar

Photo by beth singer

1st – Vogue Furniture, with Jones-Keena & Co.

Nestled between two powerful stone walls, this high-gloss rosewood bar houses a 200-gallon reef tank. The original design allowed for a traditional fish tank centered in the upper cabinetry; the size of the tank was increased and it was integrated as the rear bar’s backsplash. The rosewood upper panel was engineered to electronically rise, exposing a dramatic, illuminated bottle display. Sitting at the bar you’re surrounded by the strength of the stone, the warmth and richness of the rosewood veneer, and the soothing marine life.

Library / Study

Photo by JUSTIN MACONOCHIE

1st – Serba Interiors

In this modern-day study, linen-wrapped walls, gray lacquered cabinetry, and coordinating upholstered pieces create a space that’s as serene as it is stylish. The walls were covered in a paper-backed linen fabric to add warmth through color and soft texture. Custom built-in cabinets, crown molding, and casings were lacquered in the same warm gray, for a tone-on-tone effect. A woven wool rug with a contrasting chevron formation adds pattern to the space, while clean-lined upholstered pieces offer a comfortable place to kick up your feet.

Home Office

Photo by Beth Singer

1st – AMW Design Studio, with Perspectives Cabinetry Inc.

A small home addition incorporates a flexible studio workspace that’s very much an extension of the kitchen and main floor living spaces. During the week, it’s all business — but when entertaining is the name of the game, the space converts seamlessly. It’s the perfect live/ work setting.

Judge’s Insights

“The gorgeous blue color of the built-ins in this study (shown above, right) takes center stage and is accentuated by the warm color and texture of the blinds, baskets, and golden hue of the desk. It’s well-appointed and perfectly organized!”

— Judge Lisa Mende

Powder Room

Photo by MIKE KLINE

1st – Heller & Associates, with Studio Loft

Textured silk wallpaper complements the rich tones of the walnut flooring and imbues this contemporary powder room with a cozy, slightly outdoorsy atmosphere. The subtle faux wood grain pattern of the walls connects the home with its woodsy surroundings for a clean, modern take on rustic modern décor. A floating walnut vanity is illuminated by a pair of pencil- thin, torch-style wall sconces, and the white onyx countertop, backlit by an LED panel, provides a “wow” factor. This small space delivers massive impact!

Bath (Up to 150 Square Feet)

Photo by MIKE KLINE

1st – Heller & Associates, with Serba Interiors

The challenge in this older home was the lack of light — and space — in the master bath. The solution was to shift the vanity to the exterior wall and run the window across the entire space, terminating at the vanity. Today, a custom floating vanity spans wall-to-wall in this gorgeous monochromatic master bath. Multiple layers of light are achieved through mirror backlighting, under-cabinet lighting, recessed lights, and wall sconces. Crema Marfil marble tile and stone is used throughout, complemented by richly textured matchstick wall tile.

Bath (More Than 150 Square Feet)

Photo by STEPHEN ALLEN

1st – James Douglas Interiors

This beautifully appointed bathroom is pure luxury! The marble is the lead player in this thoughtfully designed retreat; the 12” x 24” marble tiles were installed in a staggered pattern on the floor, in order to highlight the veining in the stone and help elongate the space. A custom double vanity and large shower were created to accommodate the height of the client. Coordinating exposed shelving units enhance the spa-like atmosphere.

Kitchen (Up to 200 Square Feet)

Photo by MIKE KLINE

1st – Heller & Associates, with Perspectives Cabinetry Inc.

In this kitchen, a chef’s dream, the island is topped with eye-catching Statuario Bianco Venato porcelain stoneware, which mimics natural marble. Ten-inch miter-cut edges allow the beauty of the stone to fold dramatically over the edge, and the striking grain of the stone is reversed on the backsplash for maximum impact. Built-in stainless steel ovens are next to the pantry door, with its distinctive round window. Lighted glass-door upper cabinets wrap around the corner; storage space and a wine cooler are beneath the additional counter space.

Kitchen (Between 201-500 Square Feet)

Photo by JEFF GARLAND

1st – Angelini & Associates Architects, with Beechwood Building & Design

This family kitchen features gray laminate cabinets with flush doors and glass; a quartz concrete-look countertop; orange accents in the range, island stools, desk chair, and interiors of the pendant lights; and a geometric concrete tile backsplash in grays and blues. Pendant lights in a variety of “Beat” designs are used above the kitchen island and adjacent dining table to unify the spaces. The work triangle is efficient, while the cabinet layout maximizes storage and provides a welcoming setting for this active family.

Judge’s Insights

“I love that the clients in the Franklin remodel (shown above, right) maintained the integrity of their home while creating a fresh, modern kitchen. It’s bright and open, and feels like a great place to entertain with family and friends.”

— Judge Meg Lonergan

Kitchen (More Than 500 Square Feet)

Photo by BOSWELL

1st – Maison Birmingham, with Neat Method Professional Organizing

The goal of this renovation was to update an authentic Mid-century home and maintain its original character. Walls between the kitchen, dining room, and living room were removed, creating an open, family-friendly space. Balancing new materials and tones with the existing wood was challenging, but it was achieved with custom cabinetry in both white and charcoal matte lacquer, complemented by a custom floating buffet in the dining area. Keeping the island and perimeter base cabinet finishes the same makes the space feel more open.

Contemporary Master Suite

Photo by BERNADETT PAVA

1st – McIntosh Poris Associates

The entire third floor of this five-story townhome, built in 1899, was transformed into the master suite. A state-of-the-art Crestron system controls the cooling, heating, sound, and security systems. The light furnishings are a stark contrast to the dark, paneled millwork. The carpet is a wool blend with a subtle metallic thread accent. This space connects to the master bath through a walk-in closet made from dark oak-stained wood and featuring smoked glass doors. The closet includes an under-counter refrigerator and a safe.

Traditional Master Suite

Photo by MARTIN VECCHIO

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Patrick Dyke Collaborative, LLC

Let there be white! The soft, high-pile rug provides an earthy base for the white linen-tufted bed and crisp linens. Curvy mercury glass lamps are topped with white silk box-pleated shades and carved stone finials. The finishing touches for the sitting room are Boho print and fur pillows, a white hide rug, and a slip-covered ottoman. The master bath continues with white details: lacquered cabinets have brass accents, and wood tile floors ground the space and wrap the under-mounted soaking tub in a cozy alcove.

Contemporary Dining Room

Photo by beth singer

1st – Maison Birmingham

A screenwall obscures the stairway beyond, and provides an elegant and unique backdrop for the dining area. Looming over the long, smoked oak veneer table is a 5-foot-long custom light fixture that helps delineate the space. The smoky glass and burnished brass in the light fixture set a contemporary and sophisticated vibe, and are repeated in the butler’s pantry, where under-cabinet lighting highlights the dramatic marble backsplash and countertop. A custom walnut sideboard with brass trim provides a boundary and visual screening from the foyer.

Traditional Dining Room

Photo by beth singer

1st – Cottage Company Interiors, with Cottage Company Fine Builders

Guests are in for a real treat when they’re seated in this dining room, as windows and French doors let them enjoy unimpeded views of the adjoining rooms and spectacular out-of-doors, and bask in natural light. The chandeliers seemingly float above the casual farm table, allowing both light and air to pass through. The dining chairs were selected for their quirky take on the classic cottage Adirondack chair, and the airy server provides a place for after-dinner treats.

Contemporary Foyer

Photo by JENNY NORRIS

1st – Lindsay Ulrey, with Murphy Deesign

At first glance, the biggest hurdle in this foyer was its small size. To counteract that issue, bright, preppy colors; a pattern-on-pattern approach; and bold accessories were embraced. The blue-and-white geometric wallpaper serves as an ideal backdrop for matching accents, including a Mid-century Modern console table and an acrylic pendant, reflected in the blue gem mirror. The ginger-jar inspired umbrella stand and pale pink runner add dimension and warmth. You only get one chance to make a first impression; this home delivers a great one.

Traditional Foyer

Photo by MIKE KLINE

1st – Heller & Associates, with Marilynn Silberman of Studio Loft

Upon entering through an oversized mahogany front door with beveled glass sidelights and arched transom, the ceiling rises to the second story and exposes a gracious and grand foyer lit by a custom-designed and crafted candlelit oversized geometrical chandelier. Classic, tailored, and crisp white lacquered paneling adds depth and dimension to the space, and acts as a canvas embracing beautiful artwork. All is grounded by the custom geometric patterned area rug. The curved and sweeping staircase sets a tone of world-class quality and elegance.

Judge’s Insights

“Heller & Associates, with Serba Interiors (shown above, left), created a foyer that’s beautiful, elegant, and timeless”

— Judge Lisa Mende

Contemporary Living Room / Great Room

Photo by MARTIN VECCHIO

1st – Maison Birmingham

Maintaining a neutral palette and repeating finishes in different forms helped unify this space. A neutral rug blends with the flooring for an airy feel; the nubby texture provides warmth and coziness. Two sofas anchor the living space and provide optimal seating, while the tub chairs define the border. A sea of coffee tables in varying heights and materials creates interest and depth, bringing in the same materials used in the kitchen cabinetry and countertops. The custom cabinetry, meanwhile, flirts with modern and transitional styles.

Traditional Living Room / Great Room

Photo by MARTIN VECCHIO

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Patrick Dyke Collaborative, LLC

The main ingredients for this great room are comfort and color! The sectional provides great comfort and style without the hassle of fluffing back pillows, while the iron coffee table is durable and makes a sculptural statement. The natural rattan swing, carefully hung from the ceiling, is a favorite spot for watching TV or gazing outside. The custom-made shallow bookcases are unique and visually organized; each shelf has a small lip for photo frames. The artwork above the fireplace complements the room’s pops of color.

Children’s Room / Play Space

Photo by DUSTIN PECK

1st – Cranbrook Custom Homes

Ahoy, matey! What boy wouldn’t want to come aboard this bedroom, complete with a ship-style sleeping loft and accented by real brass port hole windows, a throw-down rope ladder, and a rope railing for the retreat space located above the sleeping chamber below?

Contemporary Interior Design (More Than One Room)

Photo by STEPHEN ALLEN

1st – James Douglas Interiors

In this stunningly cohesive design, the inspired interior utilizes beautiful contemporary and transitional silhouettes. A sophisticated color palette was thoughtfully executed throughout the spaces, which are inviting and comfortable, and enhanced by the use of luxurious, relaxed, and layered textiles. The lines of the furniture showcased in the interior are clean and classic. Colorful and graphic images adorn the neutral background, while interesting lighting highlights each interior setting.

Traditional Interior Design (More Than One Room)

Photo by MARTIN VECCHIO

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Patrick Dyke Collaborative, LLC

New Traditional best describes this home. Not shy when it comes to color, the home has a strong color palette throughout. The white walls, fresh and timeless, are the perfect backdrop for the pops of color. Windows are painted black to add drama and contrast to the white walls. All the spaces incorporate traditional furniture, including the kitchen, whose nook has traditional rattan chairs and a custom banquette upholstered in practical vinyl. The lower cabinets are deep warm black, and topped with white marble countertops.

Use of Fabrics / Upholstery

Photo by MARTIN VECCHIO

1st – Petrella Interiors

Classic Key West Gingham from Schumacher fabrics was used on the accent chair, which was placed at a table/desk behind the sofa that’s perfect for doing puzzles. The fabric is repeated on the windows, resulting in a beautiful framing effect.

Wall Treatment (Special Paint Technique, Wallcovering, Etc.)

Photo by martin vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors

Entering this foyer, guests are greeted by an inviting wallpaper — over-scaled flowers painted on Manila grasscloth. The indigo color was selected to complement the bench’s vintage-inspired velvet. Layering the two textures, one large-scale pattern and one small, creates a playful look. The wall treatment is printed on large panels with no repeat, and the exact placement of each flower was carefully decided — first with a scaled drawing, and then confirmed on-site with the installer.

Use of Color

Photo by BETH SINGER

1st – VanBrouck | LUXE Homes, with Ellwood Interiors

A timeless coastal color palette of soft grays, sands, and crisp white, punctuated with blue hues, flows throughout this Shingle-style residence. In the kitchen, piel-serpentine- marble countertops and travertine-tile backsplashes complement the charcoal-glazed white cabinetry, and the prep island is awash in a charcoal-glazed sky blue. The master suite showcases soothing taupe and white, while a soft, dreamy sky-blue is featured in the laundry room. A nautical-inspired children’s bedroom features maritime navy-blues and salty-whites; in the music room, muted sky blues set a serene mood.

Designer’s Process

“With thoughtfully chosen fabrics and finishes, the color flows throughout this house (shown above, right) in a way that charms with both a youthful exuberance and a spirited sophistication.”

— Port Mfg. & Design

Use of a Collection, Antiques, or Art

Photo by martin vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors

This client has many wonderful black-and-white family photos, and needed the perfect place to display them. In the great room, the architect designed space for two tall bookcases. Typically the focal point of these bookcases would be accessories and books; instead, the shelves were fabricated with false backs and a front edge lip to hold angled picture frames. The repetition of the graphic black-and-white photos makes a very interesting large-scale art display. Adding art lights above each bay was the perfect finishing touch.

Window Treatment

1st – Port Mfg. & Design, with Designs Designs

When selecting fabric for these draperies, it was important that nothing competed with the bold and colorful color palette, or added an unexciting element to the design. The citrus-toned ombrè draperies add the perfect touch of color without overpowering the space; the ombrè design was an unexpected and tasteful way to vertically fill this room with color. The draperies, which add height to the room with their transition of color, also unify the windows. This window treatment was critical to making the room feel cozy.

Closet

1st – Port Mfg. & Design

In a master bedroom renovation, an unused sunroom became the new master closet. With window walls on all three sides, the most efficient solution was to build back-to-back “his” and “hers” cabinet towers for abundant, organized storage. The burl wood accents and furniture-style base of the dressing table were inspired by fine antique furniture. Additional closet space is concealed behind mirrored front closets in the next room. The mirrors reflect the light from the French doors and sunroom, making the space feel bright and open.