Design Awards 2014 – Interiors

2014 Design Awards

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


INTERIORS | Utility / Storage / Garage


Photograph by Eric Perry

1st – CADEN DESIGN GROUP, WITH DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS

Done in a rich ribbon sapele, this laundry room’s cabinetry is seamless in transition and spans the height of two main walls. A utility sink under-mounted to a white marble countertop sits below an open window, which lets natural light flood the space. Equally impressive, the washer and dryer sit within a custom nook that’s topped with the same marble as the utility sink.

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

2nd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH TIM MCPHERSON

 


Photograph by Swearingen Portraits

3rd – ELIZABETH J INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Specialty Room


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORP.

This industrial-themed playroom features colored LED lighting that reacts to the beat of the music that’s played through an integrated sound system. A laser system that projects animated images, riveted steel walls, a planetarium with black lights, a sink and faucet, backlit fluorescent marker boards, police spotlights, and more make this the place to hang.

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

2nd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH TIM MCPHERSON AND DAVID GIBBONS MASONRY

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – AMW DESIGN STUDIO, WITH JOHN MORGAN, PERSPECTIVES CUSTOM CABINETRY, AND TODD EMERSON, STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORP.


INTERIORS | Conservatory / Screenroom / Sunroom


Photograph by Jeff Garland

1st – ANGELINI & ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS

The rustic interior of this screened- porch addition is an unexpectedly charming experience enriched by the homeowner’s authentic flea market and antique fair finds. Recycled materials include fireplace brick from Detroit, sash windows, and an antique screen door. The woodwork and beams are painted to look whitewashed.

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

2nd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH OLDE WORLD HOMES AND OLIVER MAX INTERIORS

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

3rd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH TIM MCPHERSON AND DAVID GIBBONS MASONRY


INTERIORS | Wine Cellar


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

1st – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH EUROPEAN COUNTRY HOMES

The French chateau-style residence’s wine room is beautiful and has a storage system that enables growing regions, grape varietals, and vintages to be easily identified. An extensive redwood racking system was designed to wrap around this sizable 16-by 10-foot space to provide ample storage and safekeeping of cases, as well as bins, a display area, and single-bottle racking storage.

 


Photograph by Scott Duchene

2nd – MOCERI CUSTOM HOMES, WITH DOMINICK TRINGALI ARCHITECTS

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

3rd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH TIM MCPHERSON


INTERIORS | Library / Home Office


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS, WITH DOMINICK TRINGALI ARCHITECTS

The owners made it clear they had no use for a formal living room. Sharing a love of books, they asked for a beautiful library. The results? A two-story space complete with a spiral staircase and book balcony. Shunning the expected stained woodwork finishes, the team used a multilayered painted finish. “I love the stair to the upper library,” said judge Stephen Chung. “Such a dignified space!”

 


Photograph by Michael Raffin

2nd – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – MOCERI CUSTOM HOMES, WITH DOMINICK TRINGALI ARCHITECTS


INTERIORS | Home Theater


Photograph by John Carlson

1st – TUTTO INTERIORS

Located at the end of the lower level and originally planned as a laundry room that the former homeowner did not use, this area underwent an amazing transformation. The entire space features wood paneling with fabric panels and a hidden door to access the electronics.


Photograph by Eric Perry

2nd – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS


INTERIORS | Powder Room


Photograph by Eric Perry

1st – CADEN DESIGN GROUP, WITH SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS

When designing a small space, it’s all about the details — and taking advantage of every square foot. This small gem is done up beautifully in striated ribbon sapele, which is highlighted by the minimal cylindrical sconces. Chrome hardware accentuates the wood, while ample drawer space and a designated space for hand towels create function and easy access.

 


Photograph by Zecchini Photography

2nd – PATRICK WIDING CUSTOM HOMES INC., WITH MILLS TILE INC.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – MORGAN-HELLER ASSOCIATES, WITH CARRIE LONG INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Bath Under 150 Square Feet


Photograph by John Carlson

1st – ART | HARRISON INTERIORS, WITH BOLYARD DESIGN

Off the gym, this bathroom is also a steam room — tiered seating was incorporated so the whole family can enjoy the room together. There is a random Carrara marble pattern as you first walk in, and then a band of glass tiles that creates a line of demarcation from the white that’s used in the balance of the room. At the other end of the room is a dry sauna, also with tiered seating.

 


Photograph by John Carlson

2nd – ART | HARRISON INTERIORS, WITH MILLENNIUM CABINETRY

 


Photograph by James Haefner

3rd – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS, WITH MOSHER DOLAN BUILDERS


INTERIORS | Bath Over 150 Square Feet


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – CAROL HALLIGAN INTERIORS

So many great elements make up this special respite. Judge Stephen Chung agreed. “An art gallery/master bath that’s masterfully executed!” he noted. Favorites include: a floating white glass Robern vanity; custom floating mirrors; Sino Carrara polished marble flooring in 18-by 36-inch pieces; Philippe Starck shower collection hardware; a large Cathy Daley work of art encased in Plexiglas to withstand steam; and more.

 


Photograph by John Carlson

2nd – ART | HARRISON INTERIORS, WITH BOLYARD DESIGN


Photograph by Greg Watts

3rd – THE TEICH GROUP


INTERIORS | Kitchen Under 200 Square Feet


Photograph by Boswell Hardwick

1st – SCAVOLINI BY CUCINA MODA, WITH MOMUS INC. AND FRANK REAUME

One of the stars of an Ann Arbor penthouse loft, this kitchen turns heads with its sports car-inspired cabinets — check out the sleek curvature of the doors and corner unit. The lower part is dark oak wood with deep red oak striations; the upper cabinets brighten the space with a creamy, glossy-painted lacquer. Bright white quartz countertops and a vertically laid glass tile backsplash lighten the space.

 


Photograph by Zecchini Photography

2nd – PATRICK WIDING CUSTOM HOMES INC., WITH GLADDING CUSTOM CABINETRY

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

3rd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH OLDE WORLD HOMES AND OLIVER MAX INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Kitchen Between 201 and 500 Square Feet


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – MORGAN-HELLER ASSOCIATES, WITH PAMELA SINGER AND ASSOCIATES

Symmetry is served! The cooking wall counter, sunk in a tile arch with a marble-arched backsplash, draws you in to this kitchen. Calcutta counters, a walnut island top, and layered ceiling details are classic, contrasting with a modern stainless freezer and refrigerator.

 


Photograph by James Haefner

2nd – LINDA POWERS INTERIORS, WITH LERMAN CORP.

 


Photograph by Carol Hill

3rd – GETA DESIGN, LLC, WITH MAC CONSTRUCTION INC. AND PERSPECTIVES CUSTOM CABINETRY


INTERIORS | Kitchen Over 500 Square Feet


Photograph by Eric Perry

1st – CADEN DESIGN GROUP, WITH SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS

Some of this kitchen’s winning qualities include an island topped with Calcutta marble (it can double as a buffet for large gatherings), and Calcutta marble that cascades down the sides of the bar-height countertop. The kitchen is illuminated by the large picture-frame window that runs the length of the countertop all the way to the ceiling, allowing views of the lake to be seen and letting natural light flood the space.

 

2nd – CADEN DESIGN GROUP

 


Photograph by Boswell Hardwick

3rd – SCAVOLINI BY CUCINA MODA


INTERIORS | Contemporary Master Suite


Photograph by Eric Perry

1st – CADEN DESIGN GROUP, WITH SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS

With floor-to-ceiling windows, this inviting space architecturally lends itself to ample amounts of natural light — creating a private, serene getaway. Note the paneling, which features a rich ribbon sapele. Centrally fixed between the paneling is a built-in, upholstered headboard that runs vertically to meet the ceiling trim. A custom bed frame, also done in the ribbon sapele, is recessed on all sides.

 


Photograph by Rauth Photographic

2nd – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS


Photograph by Gene Meadows

3rd – ROOM SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN


INTERIORS | Traditional Master Suite


Photograph by Jeff Garland AND Gene Meadows

1st – ANN-MARIE ANTON FOR IT’S PERSONAL DESIGN

This client wanted a bedroom with a “Balinese feel” to it without being too over-the-top. The room design was inspired by the fabric used for the bedding. Of note are a pan ceiling layered with glazed, quarter-sawn white oak; a television hidden behind touch-latch wood doors; grass cloth walls; and onyx fireplace tiles.

 


Photograph by George Dzahristos

2nd – PAUL FEITEN DESIGN

 


Photograph by Zecchini Photography

3rd – PATRICK WIDING CUSTOM HOMES INC., WITH CHRISTOPHER MACKLIN DESIGN


INTERIORS | Contemporary Dining Room


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS, WITH SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS AND THOMAS SEBOLD & ASSOCIATES

The extensive use of darkly finished sapele with varying textures brings warmth and color contrast. Sapele wood floor-to-ceiling half-columns were used to capture the suspended buffet and flank the openings between the rooms. Woven leather was applied to the custom table bases and the buffet, to complete the visual link between the furnishings and their surroundings.

 


Photograph by Kate Benjamin

2nd – ROOM SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN

 


Photograph by Hedrich Blessing

3rd – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Traditional Dining Room


Photograph by Michael Raffin

1st – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS

Casual wine tastings or formal dinners are a success in this room, which accommodates both a formal eating area and a low-key gathering space. Three different types of dining chairs upholstered in a casual linen and a more formal-patterned fabric for the host and hostess chairs were a good start. An expandable trestle table, wool sisal rug, and gray-gesso painted armoires round out the beauty.

 


Photograph by John Carlson

2nd – TUTTO INTERIORS

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

3rd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH OLDE WORLD HOMES AND OLIVER MAX INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Contemporary Foyer


Photograph by Rauth Photographic

1st – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS

This expansive, stunning foyer features a pivoting horizontal mahogany and glass door, a natural green slate floor, radiant heated floors leading to the large sky-lit stair opening with its nautical stainless steel cable railing system, and Fond-du-Lac stone walls.

 


Photograph by Hedrich Blessing

2nd – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS

 


Photograph by James Haefner

3rd – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS, WITH MOSHER DOLAN BUILDERS


INTERIORS | Traditional Foyer


Photograph by John Carlson

1st – TUTTO INTERIORS

Formerly unattractive with empty, painted gold walls; a trimless ceiling; a stairway of orange (treads, stringer, riser, and steps); and the current chandelier (the designer kept it, but gave it new life); the space now is stunning. New features include trim work, a white-painted stringer and risers, and the stained steps and banister.

 


Photograph by George Dzahristos

2nd – PAUL FEITEN DESIGN

 


Photograph by Brad Ziegler

3rd – VANBROUCK & ASSOCIATES, WITH OLDE WORLD HOMES AND OLIVER MAX INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Contemporary Living Room / Great Room


Photograph by Justin Maconochie

1st – MCINTOSH PORIS ASSOCIATES

The two main living spaces of the house were originally completely separate. Now a painted brick fireplace wrapped in plywood with a beech finish makes it more of an art object, and connects it materially to the kitchen cabinetry. The formal atmosphere of the living area contrasts with the mainly contemporary and more casual kitchen/family room side that opens out to the pool.

 


Photograph by James Haefner

2nd – PERLMUTTER-FREIWALD INC.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – JEFFREY KING INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Traditional Living Room / Great Room


Photograph by Michael Raffin

1st – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS

Redesigning a simpler fireplace mantle was part of the transformation of this space (also featured on the cover of this issue). Creating a large seating area, a dry bar, and room for a baby grand piano were additional priorities. The 14-foot-long unique art above the settee is actually a large panel lined with wallpaper. Meanwhile, pops of citron warm up the space. “What a fresh palette and a great juxtaposition of different pieces,” said judge Stephen Chung.

 


Photograph by James Haefner

2nd – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS, WITH SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS AND THOMAS SEBOLD & ASSOCIATES

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – JAMES DOUGLAS INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Children’s Room


Photograph by Jeff Garland

1st – S|A|M INTERIORS

While the “clients” (twin boys) may not yet appreciate the design intent, in time their interior designer mom will likely use the space for teaching moments regarding good design. Of note: The espresso brown cribs have simple, clean lines; they complement the antique dresser. The bedding has the same organic patterns found on the drapery panels.

 


Photograph by Carol Hill

2nd – GETA DESIGN LLC, WITH FOREST RIDGE CONSTRUCTION

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS, WITH O’CONNOR INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Apartment / Loft / Condo


Photograph by Omar Newman

1st – MADDALENA DESIGN

Located in the 5000 Town Center residential tower (a modern 33-story structure), this completely renovated condominium achieved a mid-century aesthetic that conforms to 21st-century standards. “This was very nicely done in the mid-century vernacular,” said judge Arden Stephenson. The furniture the client inherited from his family influenced much of the design. The dining room table, chairs, buffet, living room lounge chairs, and tables are from the Grand Rapids Furniture and Chair Co. in the 1950s. Many fabrics are from the legendary Knoll Textile archival collection.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – JEFFREY KING INTERIORS

 


Photograph by Jeff Garland

3rd – KATHLEEN MCGOVERN STUDIO OF INTERIOR DESIGN, WITH TRILOGY REAL ESTATE GROUP


INTERIORS | Contemporary Interior Design


Photograph by Brett Mountain

1st – MCINTOSH PORIS ASSOCIATES

This historic home was transformed into a creative, functional, and light-strewn space that blends seamlessly with the mix of raw and rustic details carved out with the help of local artists and collected artifacts. Wood floors, thick black-painted molding, crisp white walls, and natural furniture tones warm the dark framework nicely.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – STUDIO TANYA INTERIOR DESIGN

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – JEFFREY KING INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Traditional Interior Design


Photograph by Beth Singer

1st – JAMES DOUGLAS INTERIORS

This interior represents a new type of traditional design, where classic furniture silhouettes mix with clean lines and comfortable textiles. Interesting found objects pepper the space to ignite dialogue and make a lasting impression. The designer used light to enhance the bright and open spaces. (See another light-filled James Douglas Interiors space, plus tips, on page 29.) The living and dining area is one grand space, flanked by the kitchen and hearth room at one end and the master suite and home office on the other.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – SCHAERER ARCHITEXTURAL INTERIORS, WITH O’CONNOR INTERIORS

 


Photograph by George Dzahristos

3rd – PAUL FEITEN DESIGN


INTERIORS | Use of Fabrics / Wall Coverings


Photograph by John Carlson

1st – TUTTO INTERIORS

The client loved and wanted a gray palette for this space, so the designer started with the selections of the custom bench sofas. Then it was on to dual-fabric custom chairs that are tailored-looking but not overly so. Three uniquely different fabrics for the pillows complement one another, while the black leather ottoman adds drama.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

2nd – AMW DESIGN STUDIO, WITH STERLING DEVELOPMENT CORP.

 


Photograph by Beth Singer

3rd – JAMES DOUGLAS INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Use of Color


Photograph by Michael Raffin

1st – RARIDEN SCHUMACHER MIO INTERIORS

Prior to receiving a gentle nudge, this homeowner had an affinity toward only black and white. But after months of color reviews, a pop of citron yellow was selected for this space (also featured on the cover of this issue) and the vibrant hue was used on a lumbar pillow and an over-scaled custom settee. The vibrant color also lines a custom, four-sided ottoman as a center focal point. This great room is now the homeowner’s favorite room in the house. “Wonderful balance of different colors and textures,” said judge Stephen Chung.

 


Photograph by Rosh Sillars

2nd – ELLWOOD INTERIORS INC.

 


Photograph by Martin Vecchio

3rd – JEFFREY KING INTERIORS


INTERIORS | Use of a Collection, Antiques, or Art in an Interior


Photograph by James Haefner

1st – DESROSIERS ARCHITECTS, WITH MOSHER DOLAN BUILDERS

This artist’s home was designed to showcase her personal art, antiques, and international collections. Paintings created by the owner, one-of-a-kind bowls and vases, unique mirrors, antique furniture, stained glass, and sculpture all enjoy special areas and lighting. The large paintings in the nook area are protected from the direct sunlight by a photo-sensitive, hidden electric blind.

 


Photograph by Jeff Garland

2nd – DONNAH MILES INTERIORS

 


Photograph by Omar Newman

3rd – MADDALENA DESIGN


INTERIORS | Closet


Photograph by Hall of Portraits

1st – M.J. WHELAN CONSTRUCTION

This incredible closet features slightly distressed cabinets with extensive detail. A rolling ladder, several pull-out and slide-out shelves, scarf racks, and custom storage accessories were included in the design. A custom dresser with upper glass cabinets, along with a built-in hamper, round out the creative design. The ceiling, painted in a rich robin’s egg blue with sparkles, sets it apart.

 


Photograph by Kate Benjamin Photography

2nd – MAINSTREET DESIGN BUILD


COMMERCIAL INTERIORS | Retail Interior Design


Photograph by Ryan Belville

1st – ANN STEVENSON

As one of the oldest garages east of the Mississippi, Vinsetta Garage in Berkley was a building full of legacy, opportunity, and challenges. Built in conjunction with the widening of iconic Woodward Avenue in 1919, Vinsetta Garage was at the forefront of automotive service. Transformed into a restaurant, it now features edgy styling with a nod toward the facility’s history — including salvaged pieces and wallpaper made up of what once was the shop’s job tickets.

 


Photograph by Justin Maconochie

2nd – MCINTOSH PORIS ASSOCIATES, Brizola Restaurant, Greektown Casino, Detroit


Photograph by Esme McClear

3rd – D MET DESIGN, The Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co., Detroit


COMMERCIAL INTERIORS | Commercial Building / Architecture


Photograph by Joe Vaughn/Justin Maconochie/David Lewinski

1st – MCINTOSH PORIS ASSOCIATES

Adaptive reuse of a vacant service garage in Berkley called for transforming the automobile repair shop into a new restaurant — Vinsetta Garage — while retaining the character of the place. Designers utilized every existing remnant and material possible in the new design. “It’s definitely a clever reuse of vacant space,” said judge Jeff Jordan. “The central skylight washes it in natural light, while the exposed structure reminds visitors of the building’s history.”

 

2nd – D MET DESIGN, Canine To Five, Detroit

 


Photograph by Douglas Leahy

3rd – GETA DESIGN, LLC, WITH WILSON & CLARK, Brian’s Bar-B-Q, Deland, Fla.


COMMERCIAL INTERIORS | Lobby


Photograph by Michelle & Chris Gerard

1st – PATRICK THOMPSON DESIGN

Kresge Court opened the doors and walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts to the neighborhood and community, inspiring people to think about and use the museum differently. It is now a place for people to relax, work, meet with associates or friends, and have lunch. The outstanding concept echoes that of both a hotel lobby and traditional English garden.

 

2nd – CYRUS INTERIORS, Money Source, Ann Arbor

 

3rd – PEWABIC POTTERY, Children’s Hospital of Michigan Specialty Clinic, Detroit DMC


COMMERCIAL INTERIORS | Office Interior Design


Photograph by Esme McClear

1st – D MET DESIGN

The Kresge Foundation Detroit office augments the beauty of a historic Midtown building, while embodying collegiality and sophistication. The office serves as a showcase for the foundation’s Detroit-focused work. Visitors are greeted by a collection of area maps, local artwork, urban literature, and more. “The space is an elegant and subtle marriage between new and old,” judge Jeff Jordan said.

 


Photograph by Esme McClear

2nd – D MET DESIGN, Midtown Co-Lab, Detroit

 


Photograph by Scott Lane

3rd – ANN STEVENSON, Union AdWorks, Clarkston