Finishes

If color doesn't scare you in the slightest, go for broke!

Architect Michael K. Chen, founder and principal of the eponymous New York–based firm, resuscitated a four-story, 3600-square-foot home that had been abandoned for 20 years by incorporating a playful color palette and interesting details, such as this oval-shaped skylight.

The doors are hung with untreated linen curtains. “Fun fact,” says Valérie. “This linen is the same linen great Dutch painters like Rembrandt used.”

The Meranti wood and glass doors are over nine feet tall, and have a custom arch detail at the top. The clay coating on the walls and ceiling are by Matteo Brioni. “We mixed some colors together to give the space a perfect warm and serene feel,” says Valérie. “We like to add the same clay finish to the ceiling as the walls to create a sense of intimacy.”

A close-up shot of the detailing on the Doug fir trim around the windows.

Exposed brick in the main bedroom reveals metal struts inserted by David Cunningham to tighten the party wall's attachment to the facade.

Reading Room by Studio Carver

"We wanted to keep the exterior walls uncluttered, so you can focus on the views, the light, and the air," says Rosa Garneau, the owner of a 650-square-foot co-op in New York's Chelsea neighborhood. To achieve a clean look, everything gets tucked away, including the mattress and bedding. When looking for the best Murphy bed, look for one that can accommodate basic bedding without having to remove and store it daily.

Finland (male) - named after a trip Mike took the year ofBathroom floor tile - Waterworks Bathroom wall tile - Ann Sacks Bathroom plumbing - Waterworks his birth, and Mikes love of Scandinavian design

Gebhardt sourced the dining room table from none other than Jack's dad, who built it for his son's family. The chairs are from Barnaby Lane.

Shoe cubbies are built into the custom millwork shelving in the entryway.