Situated within a 19th-century apartment building along Barcelona’s iconic Paseo San Juan, this project by YLAB Architects involved the revitalization of a modernist residence. The owners, an Australian couple in love with Barcelona, wanted to renovate the property to establish their European residence. The dilapidated flat was transformed into a comfortable space where they could host visits from family and friends.

Balancing contemporary comforts within a historically significant setting, the preservation of key features like the Nolla mosaic flooring and ceilings was paramount. The space was reconfigured into social and private areas flanking the entrance hall, each tailored to the owners’ needs. Drawing inspiration from the mosaic’s vibrant hues, Bauwerk lime paints and bespoke furniture complement the flooring. At the same time, a connecting element, made up of baseboards and interior and exterior carpentry in a very dark brown colour, runs through the space from one end to the other. This element penetrates and envelops the smaller interior rooms, which, combined with sophisticated artificial lighting and reflective materials, are transformed into powerful and luminous spaces. The outcome is a fusion of preservation and modern elegance, resulting in a home that is a serene and refined retreat.

Photography by Santiago Garcés e YLAB Arquitectos.

Designed by Pandolfini Architects, South Yarra House melds sculptural and brutalist elements, crafting a distinctive aesthetic. Encased in concrete and glass, its interior boasts gallery-like expanses. Soft curves, clay-toned bricks, reeded glass, and walnut floors redefine space, complemented by Simone Haag‘s styling. Haag’s curation includes resin lamps, lambswool chairs, and hand-knotted rugs, striking a balance between austerity and warmth. Amidst neutral tones, textiles and art exude opulence, tempering the brutalist surfaces. This interplay extends to furniture, where sleek designs meet tactile elements, culminating in a harmonious fusion.

Photography by Lillie Thompson.

This renovation of a classic mid-century home in Los Angeles by And And And Studio is a masterclass in elevating a tired old building into a contemporary family home while respecting its design roots. A complete renovation saw the designers gut then rebuild. The result is light-filled and open plan with clean sleek surfaces. Indoors and out meet seamlessly allowing the family easy access to a fabulous pool area.

Photography by Yoshihiro Makino.

It’s like I say week in week out. If you have to drag yourself into work on a weekend it helps if it’s somewhere stylish. Helbraun Levey by Home Studios.

Both Taline Findlater and Victoria Gray of London and Oxfordshire-based interior design studio Olivine Design share a passion for layering texture, colour and pattern bringing an effortless, elegant comfort to the scheme. Their work on this house is a perfect example of what I call the quintessentially English look with its appreciation for architectural detail, light and proportion and a natural decorative flair.

Photography by Rachael Smith Photography.