The house was originally built by E.W. Godwin between 1878-1879 for Frank Miles, a society portraitist and friend of Oscar Wilde. The current homeowners wanted to acknowledge and respect its history – and they also wanted to create a home appropriate for a busy, modern family. This was not an academic historical re-creation. Using the wealth of archive material as a starting point, Rose peeled away the layers and additions, restoring the spaces purity, architectural integrity and authentic spirit whilst delivering a fresh timeless quality and new functionality. I have complete respect for designers who are after maintaining original details. Kudos to the inimitable Rose Uniacke for keeping it real with this home.

I spotted this home on Elle Decor Spain and knew it was a MUST share. Located in Vejer de la Frontera, a Spanish hilltop town and municipality in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia, it is the summer residence of designer Gaspar Sobrino, and is a maximalist’s dream. The beautiful tile floors, unique chandeliers, artwork and rooftop terrace make this home really special.

Last year Jo featured Sydney-based architect Daniel Boddam and spoke of his signature style: considered simplicity. I wanted to share another example of that approach with this beautiful modern home in Mosman, NSW. Considering architecture and interiors as one, Villa Carlo is a holistic, contemporary interpretation of the Californian bungalow – embodying my signature considered simplicity, drawing focus to artisanal craft and the clients’ coveted collection of art. Being a semi-detached dwelling, I sought to create a dialogue with its neighbouring counterpart; a white rendered brick home that was once more akin to a traditional bungalow. Key touchpoints create a considered spatial journey, starting from the custom brass pull to the entry door. A splice in the building envelope introduces a sliver of light where ascending meets descending; a refined and poetic gesture inviting a spirited interplay of shadow and light throughout the day. Villa Carlo is holistically designed with architectural and interior details forming a consistent and harmonious dialogue – the macro is in the micro. As patrons of the arts, the creative interest of our clients is reflected in the spirit of the house, which confidently interweaves art, living spaces, light and nature; an enduring and poetic outcome.

This Bend, Oregon newly built home is so warm, cozy and overloaded with personality, perfect for a family. Lots of colour and texture and some granny vintage feels give this such a feel-good energy. Interior Design by Reath Design, Architecture by Bestor Architecture. Photographed by Laure Joliet.

I had to share one more spectacular retreat designed by CO-LAB. This one is a touch less modern and a tad more bohemian and earthy. Tucked into a lush landscape of Areca Palms, Casa Areca was carefully positioned on a narrow lot to preserve existing trees and palms. Designed as a vacation home, Casa Areca, features 4 en-suite bedrooms on the 1st floor – allowing for an open ground floor plan. The kitchen, dining and living room are spatially integrated and open to the exterior through retractable and or pivoting floor to ceiling glass doors. A wrap-around deck frames the pool and private gardens. Built from CMU blocks and reinforced concrete the walls of the house are finished with white polished cement techniques. Light grey polished cement floors complement the walls to create a soft color pallet to better contrast the bespoke furnishings designed by CO-LAB and built with Yucatan artisans. An abundance of windows carefully oriented to capture prevailing breezes, keep the house cool and fresh throughout the year, creating a peaceful atmosphere optimal for unwinding after a beach day. Architecture + Construction + Interiors + Landscaping: CO-LAB (Photos: Cesar Bejar)