2019 DHDA: Interiors

2019 Design Awards – Interiors

2019 Detroit Home Design Awards

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


Utility/Garage

Photograph by Ken Kox

1st – M1 Concourse, with Brad Oleshansky

The owner wanted a place to store and work on vehicles, with entertainment/lounge and office space. The challenge? It was a two-story blank canvas that prohibited the suspension or connection of any structure to the pre-engineered building superstructure. Thus, the second floor had to be built as a stand-alone mezzanine, with all structural elements supported by the freestanding steel. Custom-built furniture with automotive and industrial design details, paired with high-end appliances and fixtures, make for a garage like no other.


Photograph by Ken Kox

2nd – M1 Concourse, with LaFontaine Automotive Group


Photograph by Kevin Meeghan

3rd – Young & Young Interiors Inc., with Young & Young Architects Inc.


Laundry Room/Mud Room

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with EuroCraft Interiors

The best part about choosing navy for cabinets is the ability to incorporate color while still keeping a visually neutral base. Clear-coated warm walnut is used as an accent and highlights the natural beauty of the wood. The locker spaces have ample room for coats, while a drawer accommodates hats and gloves, and an open space holds books, etc. The counter (not shown) completes the functional needs of this space, and is finished with a charming rattan tray and lamp.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Jones-Keena & Co.


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Young & Young Interiors Inc., with Young & Young Architects Inc.


Specialty Room (Gym, Music, Billiards, Crafts, Etc.)

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – VanBrouck & Associates, with Oliver Max Interiors

Pop the popcorn! This expansive space combines a home theater for movie nights, with a game room for hosting football parties and other sporting events. Ample space easily accommodates large groups, while retaining a cozy ambience for intimate gatherings. Patterned wool carpeting, emulating spools of movie film, adds a touch of whimsy. Guests are invited to lounge in the comfortable theater seats, sit on the sectional, play ping-pong or board games, or indulge at the snack bar.


Photograph by Kristen Scott

2nd – Arteva Homes, with Walter Herz Interiors


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Jane Redfield Schwartz, Ltd., with Chris Morgan & Associates

Judge’s Insights:
Gorgeous modern-day materials bring the Jane Redfield Schwartz, Ltd., with Chris Morgan & Associates’ specialized cooking room and its wood-burning elements to life!
— Judge Kayla Cooper


Conservatory/Screen Room/Sunroom

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Armina Interiors

This all-season room is especially inviting for nature lovers. New windows, a natural fireplace, and new heated flooring were added to the room, which is open to a large deck. A wood-inspired plank tile in soft gray-and-white tones with a chevron pattern makes the space look modern. Light tones and a mix of textures create interesting shapes, and unique elements make the room look collected rather than decorated. This is now the homeowners’ favorite room.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – VanBrouck | Luxe Homes, with Ellwood Interiors


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – Petrucci Johnson Homes, with Richard Daniels & Associates


Wine Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – VanBrouck | Luxe Homes, with Oliver Max Interiors

Constructed of solid mahogany with book-matched crotch mahogany center panels, this formal living room-area wine 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 more than 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 a high level of function.


Photograph by AZD Architects

2nd – AZD Architects


Photograph by Mike Kline

3rd – Heller & Associates, with Carrie Long Interiors


Bar

Photograph by James Haefner

1st – Schaerer Architextural Interiors, with DesRosiers Architects

Created to be one of the focal points in an open-plan lower level, this bar design is both fresh and playful. A high level of contrast was created with the material selections. Refrigeration is hidden behind panels, while a display area was established by using floating shelving and glass cabinets.


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

2nd – Kathleen Design, with Madaras Design

Designer’s Goal:
Create some unique touches, including a copper penny backsplash that shimmers under multi-layered LED lighting and copper mesh light fixtures.
— Kathleen Design, with Madaras Design


Photograph by James Haefner

3rd – Vogue Furniture, with DesRosiers Architects


Library/Study

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Meg Corley

This newly-built library has a stained-cider, coffered ceiling and brick archways at the entrance. Both the brick and stained cider give this room an understated texture. The custom-designed, built-in shelves are stained the same color, creating a unity of warmth throughout the space. Metal grilles on the doors add a simple and traditional farmhouse style. A solution for the computer tower was found in the desk design, which shows no cords.


Photograph by Mike Kline

2nd – Heller & Associates, with Serba Interiors


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Probuilt Woodworking, with Campion Platt


Home Office

Photograph by Communication Associates

1st – Cranbrook Custom Homes

This sophisticated and motivating home office is secluded from domestic distractions. The tranquil space provides privacy, which is enhanced by handmade, shiplap double-entry doors with natural markings. A smooth-painted finish doesn’t hide the barn doors’ subtle imperfections, which are accented by vintage hardware. The interior of the office has a masculine flair with a rustic, floating planked ceiling statement piece, intricate millwork, an iron-clad desk, and a trio of free-standing bookcases with goose-neck lighting.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – VanBrouck & Associates, with Oliver Max Interiors


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Cottage Company Interiors, with Cottage Company of Harbor Springs


Powder Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Vogue Furniture, with Elizabeth Fields Design

While only spanning 40 inches, this small powder room packs drama into every inch. Walnut wall panels wrap around a custom mitered stone vanity with blackened steel legs. Wallpaper by Holly Hunt, a light fixture by Pelle Design, and a fitting stone selection create head-turning appeal.


Photograph by Jeff Garland

2nd – Kathleen McGovern Studio


Photograph by Mike Kline

3rd – Heller & Associates, with Serba Interiors

Judge’s Insights:
Love the before-and-after of the Heller & Associates/Serba Interiors project. Beautiful all around, especially the vanity sink.
— Judge Meg Lonergan


Bath (Up to 150 Square Feet)

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Maison Birmingham

Challenged with creating an updated, more functional bath within this well-preserved 1937 home, the layout was reworked to accommodate a separate soaking tub and shower, as well as a dual vanity. Polished nickel plumbing fixtures, lights, hardware, and pivot mirrors bring in a warm element that bounces light around the space. Porcelain tile and quartz were used for the main floor tile and countertop.


Photograph by Mike Kline

2nd – Heller & Associates, with Perspectives Custom Cabinetry


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – XStyles Bath + More


Bath (More than 150 Square Feet)

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Petrucci Johnson Homes

For this master bath, practicality was as important as beauty. Extra-deep, medicine-like cabinets flank both sides of the vanity. A custom 6-inch backsplash wrapped along the bottom of the cabinets creates a gorgeous visual effect, and prevents water overflow or splashing from touching any part of the wood cabinets. Not shown are the shower floors, covered in glass mosaics, while the walls feature a clean subway tile. The tub’s matte finish and the café curtains with custom-appliqued trim are great additional touches.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Vogue Furniture


Photograph by Steve Thompson

3rd – Carrie Long Interiors

Judge’s Insights:
Love the color palette and the mixture of textures in the bath by Carrie Long Interiors.
— Judge Barrie Spang


Kitchen (Up to 200 Square Feet)

Photograph by Stacy Goodman

1st – Marilynn Silberman of Studio Loft, with John Morgan of Perspectives Cabinetry

This kitchen gives off a modern farmhouse vibe with its glossy white subway tiles, custom Shaker-style cabinetry, and large wooden table. The contemporary hood hangs in front of a rectangular steel window, allowing extra light to shine through. Stainless steel open shelving is appealing, while a large sink set into a stainless-steel countertop is reminiscent of a chef’s kitchen. Two pendant lights the homeowners purchased in France complement a large island that seats up to five.


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

2nd – Maison Birmingham


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Young & Young Interiors Inc., with Young & Young Architects Inc.


Kitchen (Between 201-500 Square Feet)

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with EuroCraft Interiors

This kitchen was the force that drove a complete renovation and addition. The Subzero refrigerator was the very first piece chosen. The cabinet selection incorporates navy, white, and walnut to create a traditional, timeless, and tasteful feel. Maxing out the island was a must, so a thick slab of Danby marble became a focal point. A counter-to-ceiling glass cabinet on the left side holds drinkware, and open floating walnut shelves display decorative pieces and allow easy access to everyday items.


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

2nd – Petrucci Johnson Homes, with Richard Daniels & Associates

Judge’s Insights:
The Petrucci Johnson Homes/Richard Daniels & Associates kitchen is a terrific space with great staging and good lighting. Bravo!
— Judge Anthony Michael


Photograph by Meghan Nicholas

3rd – Labra Design Build


Kitchen (More than 500 Square Feet)

Photograph by Boswell Hardwick

1st – EuroAmerica Design

The living, dining, and family rooms were opened up to a redesigned, sophisticated kitchen that has become the heart of the home. Note how the abundance of appliances practically disappears with the color of the cabinetry. European cabinetry selections are wood oak in coal and off-white colors with integrated handles. The bar area has stainless appliances with a mirrored backsplash and stainless countertop, while the coffee bar countertop and backsplash are done in a weathered marble.


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

2nd Dayna Flory Interiors, with Petrucci Johnson Homes


Photograph by Mike Kline

3rd – Heller & Associates with Marilynn Silberman of Studio Loft


Contemporary Master Suite

Photograph by MIR Photography

1st – AZD Architects with Force Building Company

This master bedroom and bath suite is bright and open. The sleeping area, which overlooks the living room and pool/cabana, is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass with remote flush blinds. Heated wood floors, custom-lit ceiling coves, and a padded fabric headwall create harmony. A two-sided stone fire feature separates the bath and closet from the bedroom. With the push of a button, via a smart-house program, the blackout blinds can open and close, the lights turn on and off, and the firelights can appear!


Photograph by Andrew Potter

2nd – Shannon Rosati of Maison Blanc Interiors

Judge’s Insights:
Shannon Rosati of Maison Blanc Interiors has incorporated a lot of pretty design in a small space. Very hotel-like. Definitely a good floor plan to maximize space, and smart use of mirrors to make the two areas feel more spacious.
— Judge Robbin Riddle


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Cottage Company Interiors, with Cottage Company of Harbor Springs


Traditional Master Suite

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Jones-Keena & Co.

The master suite in this 1920s Tudor-style home is full of architectural character, including 8-foot cove ceilings, dark wooden beams, and paneling. A neutral geometric rug fills the space, while shades of chartreuse are used as an accent throughout. A traditional four-poster bed anchors the room, and matching chests, lamps, and mirrors flank the bed.
A cozy chair and ottoman provide a quiet corner to retreat. Extra special: a fireplace sitting area with two fireside cotton velvet chairs.


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

2nd – Petrella Interiors


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Masterworks Contracting


Contemporary Dining Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Nosan Signature Homes, with Gallery Steel

The dining room is the first room seen from the entryway of this home, and provides unobstructed views of the lake and greenery beyond through its 12-foot-high, floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall glazing. A buffet appears to float in the 14-foot width, which was accomplished with a steel beam concealed within the cabinetry. The owner wanted to ensure that the light fixture was a focal point.


Photograph by Carlson Productions

2nd – Tutto Interiors


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – AMW Design Studio, with Sterling Development Corporation


Traditional Dining Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – VanBrouck & Associates, with Oliver Max Interiors

Inspired by the classic Shingle-style homes of the Hamptons, this dining room is richly appointed and layered. Tailored paneled millwork glazed a classic, crisp white, with delicate glass windowpane insets, frames the entry from the foyer to the dining room. A built-in china cabinet with consistent millwork detailing is centered on the fronting wall. Striped wallpaper by Nobilis creates an ordered backdrop and accentuates the vertical lines of the millwork, while the silver-tea-leaf paper on the ceiling adds glamour. Pass the champagne!


Photograph by Mike Kline

2nd – Heller & Associates, with Serba Interiors


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – Petrucci Johnson Homes, with Richard Daniels & Associates


Contemporary Foyer

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – VanBrouck | Luxe Homes, with Oliver Max Interiors

The entry of this modern-organic Prairie-style home reaches upward while stretching outward, extending through the main core of the house and linking the glass-paned doors of the front entry — which is approached through a sheltering 28- foot extended entry-portico — to the glass-paned doors of the rear-yard terrace. The result is a connectedness between the spaces, while the boundaries between the interior and exterior environments are blurred.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Nosan Signature Homes, with Grabill Windows & Doors


Photograph by Jeff Garland

3rd – Eleni Interiors with M/I Homes


Traditional Foyer

Photograph by Beth Singer

 1st – VanBrouck & Associates, with Ellwood Interiors

Inspired by 12th-century Romanesque architecture, the serene beauty of the entry gallery sets the theme for this old-world residence. It is a proportioned, ordered space, highlighted by three sculptural groin vaults that reach toward the sky. Finished in a soft gray Venetian plaster that’s juxtaposed with the rustic chestnut-stained, hand-scraped hickory floor, a “centuries-old style” is orchestrated. The eye is drawn to the archway at the end of the gallery, where a Roger Guerin ceramic vase is artfully displayed on a pedestal and backlit against a stone wall.


Photograph by Mukwenda Kandole

2nd – Probuilt Woodworking, with Arteva Homes

Judge’s Insights:
The Probuilt Woodworking/Arteva Homes foyer is magnificent, impressive, and stately! I love how the entry frames the coffered ceiling.
— Judge Meg Lonergan


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – Petrucci Johnson Homes, with Richard Daniels & Associates


Contemporary Living Room/Great Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

 1st – Carrie Long Interiors

This room is a stellar example of contemporary design, with rich textures and mixed metal finishes. The custom metal-and-glass door wall defines the space, while maintaining the illusion of an open concept. Hardwood floors complement the blue tones of the furniture and rug, while tying into a pinstripe wall covering, making the room feel like a well- tailored suit. The oil-rubbed bronze metal detailed drum fixture with milk glass panels provides a soft glow, and the back wall’s built-ins enclose a sofa — an ideal place for reading a book!


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Witmer Design, with Patrick Dyke Collaborative, LLC

Judge’s Insights:
The black wall in the Witmer Design/Patrick Dyke Collaborative LLC great room nicely balances out the kitchen and makes it all feel very cohesive. With a black wall this room could have easily felt stark, but the textures and warm leather make it feel cozy.
— Judge Robin Riddle


Photograph by Mike Kline

3rd – Heller & Associates, with AMW Design Studio


Traditional Living Room/Great Room

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – VanBrouck & Associates, with Oliver Max Interiors

This rustically elegant great room is a relaxed place for family and friends to gather. A balance of rough and refined elements with varied textures, patterns, and patinas brings depth to the monochromatic gray palette. An extension of the outdoor pool and spa, expansive lanai doors (not shown) — centered in a wall of cottage-style, double-hung windows — open directly onto a veranda that overlooks the pool, spa, and garden. Six clerestory windows, in a dormer centered above the lanai doors, augment the natural light that floods into the room.


Photograph by Justin Maconochie

2nd – Serba Interiors


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – Young & Young Interiors Inc., with Young & Young Architects Inc.


Children’s Room/Play Space

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Cottage Company Interiors, with Cottage Company of Harbor Springs

The challenge of this space was how to convert a small office annex into a functional and fun nursery. A navy barn door (not shown) connects the nursery to a guest bedroom, making a family suite. A separate entrance was maintained for easy access to the second-floor porch. Beaded board paneling creates a nice backdrop for the whimsical draperies covering bay windows that overlook Lake Michigan. Navy-and-white accent lighting, a classic striped rocking chair, and a walnut changing table add warmth and interest.


Photographs by Amy Benezra

2nd – Elizabeth Fields Design


Photograph by Andrew Potter

3rd – Shannon Rosati of Maison Blanc Interiors


Contemporary Interior Design (More than One Acre)

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Nosan Signature Homes, with Pamela Singer & Associates

This home features an open-concept living and dining area. The foyer’s handmade wrought iron and glass staircase railing has detailing that showcases the staircase treads, while a custom-made iron chandelier perfectly accents the soaring ceilings. Modern furnishings complement the home’s contemporary architecture, and the family room’s dark wood paneling contrasts with the white furniture for a dramatic effect. The white porcelain-tiled master bathroom was inspired by Calcutta marble, but the material was chosen for its durability and low maintenance.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Glenda Meads Architects

Judge’s Insights:
I love everything about Glenda Meads’ Brush Park project. The juxtaposition of modern within the historic bones is a winner, with a lot of smart design that maximizes space. Great work!
— Judge Robin Riddle


Photograph by James Haefner

3rd – Schaerer Architextural Interiors, with DesRosiers Architects


Traditional Interior Design (More than One Room)

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with Petrucci Johnson Homes

This home embodies the new traditional mentality, while keeping formal tradition at its core. Filled with family-friendly fabrics and materials, it still portrays a high level of elegance. The formal living room, shown here, showcases the family’s antique furniture; refinishing it and covering it with luxurious fabrics gave the pieces new life. The kitchen has traditional pillar details on the cabinets and a beautifully curved butcher block cabinet. A neutral color palette gives a sense of harmony, and emphasizes the texture and silhouettes found throughout.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Cottage Company Interiors, with Cottage Company of Harbor Springs


Photograph by Justin Maconochie

3rd – Serba Interiors


Use of Fabrics/Upholstery

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

This breakfast nook off of a contemporary galley kitchen needed to function as a lounge and small dining area. The clients needed to warm this space up so it would blend with their more traditional mindset. This custom banquette accomplishes the goal of softening the space by adding a bit of drama in color and texture, providing a needed contrast to the adjacent minimalist kitchen.


Photograph by Chelsea Diffenderfer

2nd – RL Concetti, LLC

Judge’s Insights:
RL Concetti, LLC used a great mix of patterns, textures, and colors for this master suite.
— Judge Barrie Spang


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – AMW Design Studio, with Sterling Development Corporation


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

Photograph by Andrew Potter

1st – Shannon Rosati of Maison Blanc Interiors

A bedroom for a little girl was designed to evoke a Parisian, feminine, and glamorous vibe. A feature wall with a large watercolor peony in black and white is the perfect backdrop to the white lacquer chest of drawers flanking the vanity. The black-and-white print pulls in the black accents and complements the acrylic and polished nickel hardware and chair (not shown). The modern black-and-white palette juxtaposes the femininity of the floral watercolor print, which is the overall design aesthetic of the room.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Carrie Long Interiors


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – Dayna Flory Interiors


Use of Color

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Meg Corley

This project brought together the use of bold colors and neutral bases, to create an against-the-grain interior. Color was in the forefront of the must-haves for the outcome of this project; the challenge of using such dynamic color was placement, and not using so much that it would take away from the home’s overall sophistication and balance. The neutral backgrounds add just enough of a sense of reflection and grounding.

Judge’s Insights:
Such beautiful use of color in the Meg Corley room. Love how the orange pops off of the grays, and the accent of orange on the stair runner is perfection. A very well-done space.
— Judge Barrie Spang


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – AMW Design Studio


3rd – Port Mfg. & Design


Use of a Collection, Antiques, or Art

Photograph by Mike Kline

1st – Heller & Associates, with Carrie Long Interiors

Finding a place for a collection of 1920s Art Deco bronze sculptures was accomplished by establishing three stacked drywall niches in the foyer. Each space is indirectly lit from the rear, to avoid shadowing and to create a warm glow for the sculptures. The curves of the statues are juxtaposed against the surrounding crisp, square drywall lines; the result is a sense of balance between the soft, sexy curves of the statues and the sharp, clean lines of this Mid-century Modern home.


Photograph by Jeff Garland

2nd – Staci A. Meyers S|A|M Interiors, with Paula Bowers

Judge’s Insights:
The display of artwork and collected symbols in the home by Staci A. Meyers S|A|M Interiors/Paula Bowers is beautiful.
— Judge Barrie Spang


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – VanBrouck | Luxe Homes, with Ellwood Interiors


Window Treatment

Photograph by Martin Vecchio

1st – Dayna Flory Interiors, with V. Knevels Interiors

Café curtains are the perfect bathroom window treatment because they create privacy while allowing natural light to shine in. This particular café curtain is special; eliminating pleats and rings made the piece very clean and flat — highlighting the tailoring of the precisely applied tape trim detail. Although it might seem easy to sew something so simple, having such a perfectly flat panel made sewing perfection a must. Finished with delicate brushed nickel inside-mount rods, this window treatment is a piece of art.


Photograph by Kristin Harris

2nd – Anna Versaci Design


Photograph by Jeff Garland

3rd – Birch Design Associates


Closet

Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – Nosan Signature Homes, with Perspectives Custom Cabinetry

The homeowners wanted a closet with no exposed hanging areas or shelving, but with a lot of drawers. The glass doors are both functional and beautiful, allowing the shoes and accessories to easily be seen, and serving as an eye-catching display wall. The center island provides a place for folding, packing, and organizing. The master closet features flush doors made of European wood-grain laminate with simple horizontal grooves, for a paneled appearance.


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – Vogue Furniture


Photograph by Mike Kline

3rd – Heller & Associates


Finished Basement

Photograph by Brett Mountain

1st – Stalburg Design, with Sterling Development Corp.

This waterfront home’s finished basement opens to the lake. The design incorporates a full-service bar, with a recessed refrigerator, ice-maker, wine storage, and ample counter space. The project was no easy feat, as it required an obtrusive patio staircase and main-level deck to be demolished. Custom furniture with plush and durable fabrics (not shown) makes this the perfect spot for unwinding after a day on the water.


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

2nd – Armina Interiors


Photograph by James Haefner

3rd – Schaerer Architextural Interiors, with DesRosiers Architects