Meet the Winners of the Westchester Home Design Awards in 2023

These are the designs and interior projects that came out on top in Westchester Home's annual Design Awards.

-Best Use of Color-

Malka Helft

Think Chic Interiors
New Rochelle

The vibrant color used in this happy space was inspired by the view from the window. The room was designed around the view and the first thing the family see as they enter their home. The fictional design on the chosen wallpaper also adds a lot of color and incorporates a playful element.

Pops of color
Photo by Hulya Kolabas

Rachel Mintz

Rachel Gray Interiors
Larchmont

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The designer wanted to create a space for her little client that felt like a fairy tale. The pink-floral mural sets the tone for the entire design. A touch of whimsy was added with the chartreuse pear art and candy-like pink glass lamp. To cut cuteness and add a touch of cool, they added the neutral checkerboard shag rug.

Pink color wall
By Lo Austin Photo

Scott Hirshson

Hirshson Architecture + Design
Larchmont

While the exterior of this Larchmont home displays traditional grays, this client favors whimsical pops of color throughout the interior. For this busy family’s mudroom, the team combined a classic black-and-white checkerboard-pattern floor with Farrow & Ball’s Green Blue #84. The millwork’s Green Blue paint color is a chameleon, changing from warm green to fresh blue with the different lights of the day.

Entryway design
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Alexandra Denburg

M&P Design Group
Pelham

Bedroom design
Photo by Mike Van Tassel

Having moved back to the States after nearly a decade in Europe, the homeowners wanted to bring European inspiration into their home. This third-floor guest suite/living space offers a new traditional aesthetic, with a nod to the latest design trend, cottagecore. Evoking the feeling of a European cottage, this space is enveloped in a soft-green paint color. A curated selection of European fabrics was shipped to the designer’s workroom to create the custom window treatments, seat cushions, pillows, and bedding. Natural textures were used throughout, including wrought iron, wicker, glass, and linen, to complete the look.

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pillow
Photo by Mike Van Tassel

Jennifer Howard

JWH Cabinetry & Design
Scarsdale

The demand for furniture-quality rift white oak led to the palette for this design. The double vanity, built of furniture-grade rift oak, provides open and closed storage. The contrasting oil-rubbed bronze hardware and mirrors contrast the satin-brass plumbing and electrical fixtures, the perfect example of mixing materials. The use of porcelain herringbone floor tiles, large-format wall tiles, and white-quartz slabs ensures maximum durability, and the marble-mosaic floor in the shower provides a graphic contrast.

Neutral Bathroom
Photo by Brian Madden, Madden Studio

-Best Use of New Trend-

Barrett Oswald

Barrett Oswald Designs
Larchmont

The green wall paint in this bedroom was carefully selected to set the stage for a warm and natural aesthetic. The inspiration was to create a look reminiscent of summer camp, so the designer layered organic textures, like a jute rug, woven shades, and linen bedding, to balance the wall color. The result is a cozy and unique feel, with a bit of nostalgia.

Green design awards color
Photo by Tim Lenz

-Best Use of Small Space-

Claire Paquin

Clean Design Partners
Eastchester

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A little space off the guest bathroom (5′ × 4′ to be exact) in this Eastchester home was the perfect spot to design and build an at-home sauna. Adjacent to a large home gym, everyone in the family loves to work out (and unwind).

Sauna
Photo by Regan Wood

Karri Bowen-Poole

Smart Playrooms
Rye

This one-car garage was gut renovated for and by the designer and homeowner so that she could create an amazing gym and ninja-warrior circuit that everyone in the family could enjoy. Included in the redesign are a workout/yoga studio, a punching bag, monkey bars, trapeze bars, rock-climbing walls, a basketball hoop inside and outside, and a high sleeping loft perfect for sleepovers.

garage playroom
Photo y Addie Chabot

Jade Cunningham

Curated Style
Rye

This previously unused space under a picture window was transformed into a fun and cozy seating area. Custom cabinetry maximizes the space and creates a timeless perch. Versatile and stain-resistant fabric was used so the entire family can enjoy and visually interesting, and dimmable sconces offer up great reading light.

cozy seating
Photo by Anna Julien

-Children’s Room-

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Briarcliff Manor

Children's Room
Photo by Jacob Sinavely

The focus of this project was to make the 1,428-square-foot basement into a complete play space for the homeowners’ three daughters and their friends. The finished space is a complete kids’ zone, with newly designed built in lockers to hold crafting supplies, a tented reading nook, a dress-up area, a seating area for the family to curl up and watch movies, and a custom climbing wall with a hand-painted mural. Bonus, there is a custom built “modern farmhouse style” secret room under the stairs.

Other Contributors: DTF Rosemount

Children's room
Photo by Jacob Sinavely

Elissa Grayer

Elissa Grayer Interior Design
Rye

The goal in this Rye home was to create a playful, educational, and functional space for the client’s children. This large room above the garage was adapted to create three separate spaces, including a place to play, quietly read, and have sleepovers. With lots of custom millwork, the team created two upholstered trundle beds, bordered with book shelves, as well as ambient and task lighting. The play area includes storage for toys as well as two circular reading nooks for cozy, quiet time.

Children's room design awards
Photo by Brittany Ambridge

Anandy Germosen Ramos and Lorien Pereyra

Design Alcove
Yonkers

For this little girl’s room, the team put themselves in the shoes of this dinosaur-loving client to dream up the perfect blend of feminine and ferocious. They started with an earth-tone palette and added a complementary splash of pink. The wallpaper is a playful element that blends in and allows the green accent wall to shine. The sheer canopy over this comfy bed ensures that this little girl can’t wait to get tucked in. To further accentuate the dreamy, cozy, and feminine feel throughout the space, they used complementary textures, like the custom roman shade, velvet chair, lamp, and shag rug.

Kids bedroom
Photo by Lorien Pereyra

Kristen Kells

Kristen Kells Creative
Pelham

This room had beautiful bones and is shared by two young sisters. The goal was to create a space that was sweet and appropriate for their current ages (4 and 2) but would give them room to grow. The Rebecca Atwood wallpaper made this room really come alive like a wildflower garden. Attached to the bedroom is a small nook that was turned into a colorful, rainbow-themed playroom.

Children's bedroom
Photo by Julie Leffel

-Closet-

Brenda MacLeish

California Closets
Scarsdale, Women’s Closet

Masha Alimova

California Closets
Scarsdale

This custom-closet design puts order and beauty on display. From the built-in vanity to the gorgeous shoe and handbag walls, this space includes a ton of storage options. The lighting accents are strategically placed, so you can easily see everything.

Other Contributors: Brenda Macleish

closet space
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Maura Fitzgerald

Fitz Just Right

Jessica Quezada and  Monique Cahill

JM Foundarie Interiors
Bronxville

This closet features high ceilings and plenty of storage, including pullout drawers for pants with rods for hanging and compartments for every accessory, including jewelry and belts. Built-in stepstools make it easy to access everything, and lighting and electronic hanging rods add some high tech amenities.

smart closet design
Photo by Narrative View Media

Masha Alimova

California Closets
Scarsdale

This closet was designed for a male client and includes tailored design for perfectly tailored items. There is a dedicated space for pants, suits, and belts, to keep everything he needs in its place and help him stay organized.

Other Contributors: Brenda Macleish

design awards closets
Photo by Stefan Radtke

-Dining Room-

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Purchase

The homeowners, who are avid travelers, wanted to bring in their global style to this dining-room design. They love to entertain and make cocktails, so the sideboard serves as storage, a place to serve food, and as a bar. The brass details, like the light fixture, add a touch of glamour, while the team also incorporated global artwork that was made sustainably. But the real star of this design is the purple, lacquered ceiling, a real showstopper.

Other Contributors: Palette Pro

Pink dining room
Photo by Jacob Snavely

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Briarcliff Manor

The homeowners of this Briarcliff Manor home are casual entertainers who wanted a dining table that would fit not only their family of five but also visiting family and friends. Originally, they wanted a built-in banquette, but the budget did not allow for it, so two freestanding banquettes were brought in along with custom 10-foot-long cushions with performance fabric to create the illusion of one continuous piece. Bonus, the banquette comes with storage. The dining-room table is durable (able to hold up to the family’s three girls) but also has gorgeous detailing.

Other Contributors: DTF Rosemount

dining nook
Photo by Jacob Snavely

Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino

Lulu Home
Scarsdale

This moody dining room features dark wallcovering with lots of movement and a custom banquette. The entry, which includes a lot of millwork, opens up to the dining room, so the design team kept the millwork on this ceiling and the trim light, to marry the spaces. Low-profile seating was selected with interesting curves and was combined with a light and airy glass, brass light fixture, to keep the room from feeling heavy.

Dining room space
By Paul Johnson Photography

Entry

-Alice Pirsu-

Alice Pirsu Interiors
Pelham Manor

This new home was built during the pandemic for a family of five. The client requested to have a full view of the backyard from the entry, for a spacious and airy feel. The designer chose minimal furnishings but opted for a large-scale chevron floor pattern to better lead the eye to the backyard. The sculptural gold mirror, artwork, and benches all come together to support the homeowner’s vision while adding flavor to the entry.

Other Contributors: Bana Choura, Choura Architecture

home entryway design awards
Photo by Phillip Ennis Productions

Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino

Lulu Home
Scarsdale

The team took advantage of the grand double entry in this Scarsdale home. To draw the eye up to the interesting millwork, they used a multi-tiered chandelier featuring smokey glass to add contrast to the light and bright space. To continue the contrast, a black structural entry table was used along with a luxurious suede fringed ottoman. The space is grounded by a neutral, abstract runner for warmth and comfort.

stairway
Photo by Paul Johnson Photography

Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino

Lulu Home
Chappaqua

This entry is accented with artful touches to create a curated feel when you walk in the front door and up the stairs of the home. A structural entry cabinet was paired with a marble lamp. Running up the staircase is a blue-glass wall sculpture. Two chandeliers were chosen, one used on the first floor as you enter while the second hangs from the second floor.

home entrance
Paul Johnson Photography

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Briarcliff Manor

The existing entry was outdated and screamed ’90s style. The homeowners and the designer wanted to design a grand entrance, so they revamped the entire space by removing a spider-like chandelier, swapping out tiles for a fresh, checkerboard-diamond pattern, refinishing the stairs, rails, and posts, and adding board and batten to the wall leading up to the second floor.

Other Contributors: DTF Rosemount

grand stairway
Photo by Jacob Snavely

-Library/ Home Office-

Tobi Schmidt

Tobi Schmidt Designs
Scarsdale

The bones of this room were wonderful; it just needed a refresh and a new vibe. The goal was to create a multipurpose space — a home office and place to relax and unwind. The transformation began when the team removed the heavy and dated details on the built-ins. Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore was chosen to refinish the woodwork, which gave it a modern and rich look. The window seat was reimagined by adding a custom bench to fit in the nook. Masculine and handsome fabrics were chosen for the window treatments and upholstered pieces. A modern and minimally textured wallpaper was added behind the sofa, along with sconces, to create a warm and inviting space.

Other Contributors: Circa Lighting, Marble America, Current Home

living area
Photo by Rikki Snyder

Kerry Jacobs

Manor + Woods
Rye

The hardworking mom of this family of mostly boys and men wanted a feminine vibe for her personal office. The pink pattern on the walls combined with the neutral accent colors represent her soft Southern roots combined with her strong wit and bright personality. It’s the perfect amount of function and style for her.

Other Contributors: Amanda Soropoulos

home office
Barquel Langworthy Photography

Rachel Mintz

Rachel Gray Interiors
Larchmont

This dreamy space is nestled on the third floor of this Larchmont home. The windows are a beautiful feature in this space and let in tons of natural light. The floor-to-ceiling drapery and wallpaper accentuates the windows and draws in the eye. An antique writing desk and daybed were added to create the perfect home-office retreat.

office space
Lo Austin Photo

-Living Space-

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Purchase

The clients moved into this, their forever home, during the pandemic while just starting their family. The homeowners love to travel and have lots of memories from their trips to Africa, especially Kilimanjaro, and London. A must for this design was to bring in their global style. Inspiration was found in custom fabrics with global patterns and complementary materials, like rattan, rope, and wood. The built-ins were flat white, and the team decided to incorporate a warm mushroom color to bring a richness to this space.

Other Contributors: Palette Pro

living room
Photo by Jacob Snavely

Erin Coen & Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
Rye

This young family moved from NYC to the suburbs without furniture, so the team started with a blank slate. The home has high ceilings and a coastal view, so the proximity to the Long Island Sound was the inspiration. Since the client loves pinks and blues and wanted a coastal aesthetic, the team blended the Nantucket style of the home with the color palette. They created a light and airy vibe that includes family-friendly fabrics but doesn’t scream “kids live here.” Because the space is so grand, they opted for large, textured lighting and furniture to fill the negative space and create cozy zones.

Other Contributors: DTF Rosemount

white living room
Photo by Jacob Snavely

Scott Hirshson

Scott Hirshson + Design
Armonk

This modern, open great room was a dream-come-true addition to this Armonk home. Built around a wall of windows overseeing the backyard, this open living space has now become the heart of the home. Carbon black stone surrounds the fireplace along with a large Apparatus chandelier that helps draw the eye to the peaked ceiling. An oversized U-shaped sofa and custom lacquered-lined wrapped cocktail tables from Tailored Home in Greenwich are inviting, along with the artwork and accessories that all add special details.

Large windows
Photo by Stefan Radtke

-Modern Bath-

Jason Landau

Amazing Spaces
Armonk

The existing bathroom was a typical early-’90s design, complete with platform whirlpool tub, beige travertine tile, and shiny-brass trim. It was a large space, but the layout needed to be reworked. The clients wanted a more contemporary aesthetic with a larger shower, two sinks, water closet, and dedicated makeup area. They were willing to give up the tub to accomplish the new layout. The team closed a window and shifted the entry door allowing them to rearrange the room. The design inspiration came from a silver-blue travertine tile that was balanced with white Glassos and warm wood tones. The curbless shower maximizes the floor and keeps the bathroom light and airy.

modern bathroom
Jim Fuhrmann Photography

Jennifer McCabe

Duck Egg Blue
Hartsdale

At just 41 square feet, this bathroom feels clean and surprisingly spacious. Designed for a teenage boy, the black-and-white palette is both masculine and timeless. Using an eye-catching marble mosaic on the floor and only one shower wall prevents the space from feeling closed in. Cleverly positioned storage with a recessed medicine cabinet keeps clutter at bay, and a wall mounted robe hook keeps towels within reach. A wooden vanity adds warmth.

modern bath design
Photo by Ian Huet-Gundill

Suzanne Goldberg

SBG Design, Inc.
Purchase

This primary bath was originally two separate bathrooms. One grand bathroom seemed most practical for the homeowners. To do this, the team opened up the space and made one large room with luxurious features, including an oversized steam shower and soaking tub. A two-toned marble floor was chosen, along with custom made vanities and a glamorous chandelier over the tub.

Other Contributors: Marble America, GS Woodworking, Richard Urbina

soaking tub
Photo by Alan Barry

-Modern Kitchen-

Jason Taylor & Nick Viazzo

Taylor-Viazzo Architects
White Plains

The homeowners of this home are fond of repurposed industrial buildings and requested that this aesthetic be worked into the design of their new kitchen while staying true to the home’s original architecture. The team exposed the ceiling joists and painted them white, while the floors and backsplash are finished in a cement-inspired porcelain tile. The cabinet doors and faces are solid cherry, with a dark, rustic finish, and the window interiors were painted black. Despite the darker palette, the kitchen’s natural and artificial lighting keep the work surfaces brightly lit and easy to use any time of day. Because this is a Kosher kitchen, there are two sinks, two dishwashers, and ample storage (including a walk-in pantry).

Other Contributors: Freeform Construction, Florence Corp, Marble America

Kitchen
Photo by Jason Taylor

Randy O’Kane

Bilotta Kitchen & Home
Rye

This contemporary kitchen design pairs matte-white paint and high-gloss walnut laminate with a softly pearlized, chocolate, textured laminate to add interest. The waterfall island is a focal point in this design, providing ample workspace, storage, and seating. A variety of hardware is used throughout, giving the design a lot of variety. The butler’s pantry includes a paneled wine refrigerator with corner sink. Unifying the elements is honed “Calacatta Lincoln” marble for the countertops and slab backsplashes.

Other Contributors: Keller Eaton Architects, Marla Pasareno, Noonan Construction

Modern kitchen island
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Jason Taylor and Nick Viazzo

Taylor-Viazzo Architects
White Plains

The homeowners of this home are fond of repurposed industrial buildings and requested that this aesthetic be worked into the design of their new kitchen while staying true to the home’s original architecture. The team exposed the ceiling joists and painted them white, while the floors and backsplash are finished in a cement-inspired porcelain tile. The cabinet doors and faces are solid cherry, with a dark, rustic finish, and the window interiors were painted black. Despite the darker palette, the kitchen’s natural and artificial lighting keep the work surfaces brightly lit and easy to use any time of day. Because this is a Kosher kitchen, there are two sinks, two dishwashers, and ample storage (including a walk-in pantry).

Other Contributors: Freeform Construction, Florence Corp, Marble America

Neutral kitchen
Photo by Jason Taylor

Scott Hirshson

Hirshson Architecture + Design
Armonk

A black-and-white palette with dark-wood laminate sets the tone for this modern kitchen, a collaboration with Leicht. As the jewelry of the space, a Shakuff tube light sparkles over the island, while a Pelle bubble chandelier hangs over the breakfast nook. A custom coffee station was a special requirement for the homeowners and can be hidden behind a cabinet door. The cabinets are a blended matte laminate and a wood veneer. Sintered stone countertops were used for durability and timelessness.

Other Contributors: Leicht

dark kitchen design awards
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Tami Wassong

Tami Wassong Interiors
Larchmont

This kitchen was completely gutted and reimagined by taking over a small office space to create a sizable secret pantry. The team was able to create a space that functions both for cooking and hosting. To be family-friendly, they stayed away from using marble, instead opting for Caesarstone on the surrounding countertops, while utilizing marble for the island and backsplash to have a balance. Open shelving is used throughout, and the mix of light wood, stone, black accessories and lighting, and brass hardware come together to create an eclectic and worldly feel.

Other Contributors: John James Construction, LTD

White kitchen
Photo by Tim Lenz

-Mudroom-

Scott Hirshson

Scott Hirshson + Design
Armonk

This busy family of five needed a redesigned mudroom to flow seamlessly within the fresh, modern aesthetic of their home. Large form terrazzo tiles from Ann Sacks bring interest and retro vibes to the cool black-and-white palette, while built-ins offer plenty of storage.

mudroom
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Erin Coren and Lina Galvão

Curated Nest
West Harrison

This mudroom was an unfinished space off the two-car garage and serves as a second entrance to the house. The client’s main focus was storage, not only for seasonal gear, but for incoming and outgoing packages and mail. Custom cabinets were built to give the space more structure and add the much desired storage.

Other Contributors: DTF Rosemount

design awards
Photo by Jacob Snavely

Kristen Kells

Kristen Kells Creative
Scarsdale

What was an unattractive room is now a bright and functional mudroom. The team blew out closets and walls to add in a bench and storage. The inspiration was to bring the beautiful outside garden in and make what was a dark and often overlooked space feel light, bright, and welcoming.

bright mudroom
Photo by Julie Leffel

-Outdoor Space-

Attilio Petroni

National Outdoor Living
Scarsdale

The goal for this project was to create a relaxing outdoor living space that looks and feels simple yet elegant. The design also compliments the style of the home. The team created a sense of harmony between the individual spaces, which include a pool, inset hot tub, firepit area, and outdoor kitchen. The landscape was a complete and total transformation covering all the areas of the property. During the day and the evening, the homeowners can relax in this space thanks to the ample and ambient lighting throughout the property.

Backyard space
Photo y Attilio Petroni

Nina Lichtenstein

Custom Home Design by Nina Lichtenstein
Thornwood

This custom-designed wraparound Trex deck replaced a smaller deck. It now wraps from the back of the house around the sunroom to the front of the house, making it a striking feature of the home. It includes a lattice privacy screen with trellis above, a pergola, a roof extension with skylights, and an enclosed gazebo. Outdoor speakers, a fan, market lights, lanterns, and sconces allow parties to go long into the night. And rocking chairs, sofas, armchairs, Adirondack chairs, and a large table allow for ample seating and places to eat and relax.

Other Contributors: Bernardini Builders

Design awards deck space
DNA Photography

Devin Short

Scenic Landscaping
Harrison

patio space
Photo by Heather Knapp

The homeowners of this Tudor-style house wanted a modern-cottage-garden feel and space to entertain. They also wanted an easily accessible hot tub that would blend into the space. A new, larger firepit was built and became the main entertainment spot. The team used more traditional bluestone material for the patio and steps while adding clean lines and long steppers to give it a more modern feel. A fountain was added to be seen from the kitchen window and to be heard from all areas of the backyard. Finally, the existing screening was enhanced using purposeful plantings and flowers.

back deck
Photo by Heather Knapp

-Powder Room-

Annie Mennes

Garrison Foundry Architecture + Design Studio
Mamaroneck

The team wanted to go dark and moody for this powder-room transformation. The previous powder room opened directly off the front door, so a new corridor off the entry was created to provide more privacy. The wallpaper used is Farrow & Ball’s Feather Grass, which echoes the grasses from the creek beyond the home, and the paint color is Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green. The countertop is made of soapstone, and the floor is limestone Danube pavers from Craftsman Court Ceramics. The light fixture is a custom brass pendant.

Other Contributors: Toka Builders, Natalie Breen, Jessica Lewis, Andrea Mennes, Mike Carr

bold powder room
Photo by Pamela Cook

Kristen Mirabile

Kristen Mirabile Design
Larchmont

The goal behind this full renovation was to craft an updated, modern powder room. The exquisite contemporary aesthetic was created by using a sleek custom-designed vanity and Cole & Son’s wallpaper to add a pop of color. The eye-catching decorative features, including Made Goods faux shagreen circle mirror, were added to enhance the room’s finish.

powder room
Photo by Jillian McAlley Photography

Scott Hirshson

Hirshson Architecture + Design
Armonk

This client wished for a formal powder room that kept up with their home’s new, modern feel. The floating marble vanity is layered on custom paneling painted in pitch-black. Allied Maker brass sconces backlight the mirror, while the remainder of the room is finished in textured Phillip Jefferies “venetian plaster” wallcovering. Another wow moment is the glossy-black wall-hung toilet.

Dark vanity design
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Lizette Garcia-Elias

LGE Interiors
Dobbs Ferry

This small powder room was transformed into a fun, vibrant, bird-lover’s dream. The designer incorporated a playful wallpaper, with bright wainscoting and brass fixtures. The custom floor tiles played on the 1920s charm of this Dobbs Ferry home.

Other Contributors: Zman General Construction, LTD

powder room wallpaper
Photo by Brain Madden, Madden Studio

-Primary Suite-

Kerry Jacobs

Manor + Woods
Rye

primary bed
Photo by Raquel Langworthy

The goal for this primary suite was to create a sanctuary for relaxation. The mix of calming colors, like pale grays, whites, and blues, sets a relaxing tone for the space. The designer also brought in textured linens, lighting, wallpaper, and art that elevates the space to have elegance. The designer achieved what the client describes as “complete tranquility… until the kids come in and start jumping!”

bedroom dresser
Photo by Raquel Langworthy

Shannon Murray

Shannon Murray Interiors
Rye

In this primary bedroom suite, the designer wanted to bring in the gorgeous water views. They painted the room a light-blue shade and added texture with grasscloth wallpaper on the ceiling. The traditional fireplace mantle was removed to make way for a sleek wall of stone. The shag area rug adds a cozy element to the large space, and his-and-hers chaise lounges were added as a perfect spot to enjoy the view outside. A custom TV was added to the end of the bed, so the view would not be blocked.

Other Contributors: Academy Marble, Shoreline Construction, WS Construction

Primary suite design awards
Photo by Kyle J Caldwell

Annie Mennes

Garrison Foundry Architecture + Design Studio
Mamaroneck

Primary bedroom
Photo by Pamela Cook

Guion Creek, as this project is called, was a full interior renovation of a house that had not been touched since the 1980s. Previously, this space was an open porch on the second floor that was hardly used. The couple previously had a smaller bedroom on the second floor and wanted something that had views of the creek beyond the home, which they love. The team created an arched entry to the previous porch and created a soft and calm mood with a subdued green palette, picking up on the nature of the creek. A custom, white-oak unit holds precious pieces, and a small portion was carved out for a small deck with a STUV woodburning stove for colder nights. The primary bath picked up on the natural materials of the bedroom, with a custom walnut vanity, floor tiles from Mosa, and fireclay brick in the shower and behind the vanity.

Other Contributors: Natalie Breen, Orlando Rivera Carrion, Jessica Doyle

white primary bathroom
Photo by Pamela Cook

-Specialty Room-

Lisa McTernan

Lifestyles & Interiors by Lisa
Cortlandt Manor

This space is as cozy as it is versatile. It not only serves as a library and cozy reading area but also a bar and a place for grandchildren to play and store their things out of sight. The bar area comes in handy for entertaining or a night cap when reading alone in the evening. The tall built-ins double as a butler’s pantry for storing extra dinnerware.

bar space
Photo by Phillip Ennis Productions

Izabela Tokarski

Kabela & Co
Scarsdale

whiskey lovers room
Photo by Regan Wood

This is truly a whiskey lover’s paradise, as everything was designed with the history and use of whiskey in mind. The project included a full gut of an existing basement, and the team converted it into a humidified whiskey cellar, full bar, and separate powder room. The subdued amber lighting and dark color choices lend the space a sense of luxury and comfort. The furnishings and light fixtures were custom-made by hand from reclaimed barn wood and old metal pieces, and whiskey barrels were shipped from Scotland and used throughout the design.

whiskey room
Photo by Regan Wood
Powder bath
Photo by Regan Wood

Merrin Jones

Merrin Jones Interiors
Armonk

What was an unfinished basement was transformed into a fabulous wine cellar that everyone can enjoy. This wine cellar also serves as a tasting room, so the clients can reminisce about their favorite vineyards in Napa. It includes comfortable seating and tons of bottle storage for their collection.

Other Contributors: High Image Construction

tasting room
Photo by Emily Sidoti

-Traditional Bath-

Jane Bell

Jan Bell Interior Design
Pelham

Traditional Bath
Photo by John Gruen

The goal for this primary bathroom was to create a calm retreat. The designer capitalized on the light and height of the space to create a large primary bath with a beautiful, modern tub set below windows as a focal point. She added a traditional crystal chandelier, sconces, and drawer pulls for a bit of glamour, sparkle, and elegance.

soaking tub
Photo by John Gruen

Izabela Tokarski

Kabela & Co
Rye Brook

traditional shower
Photo by Regan Wood

For this primary-bathroom renovation, the team created a completely new layout and built custom cabinetry. All natural Calcatta gold marble was used along with heated flooring, a tray ceiling with cove lighting, light fixtures, and lots of storage.

Other Contributors: Wainscot Solutions

white bathroom vanity
Photo by Regan Wood

Justine Wolman

Justine Wolman Interiors
West Harrison

This traditional bath was designed for a little girl with touches of pink magnolias on the wallpaper that added charm. The detailed gray-and-white tile from Terra Tile & Marble, the natural wood vanity, and the brass hardware all play perfectly off each other to help complete the space.

bathroom wallpaper
Photo by Maksim Akelin

-Traditional Kitchen-

Annie Mennes

Garrison Foundry Architecture + Design Studio
Warwick

Midcentury meets the farm, as this project is referred to, was a full renovation of an existing post-and-beam midcentury home originally built by the owner’s father. The existing beams were clad with rough-sawn white oak to create character and lighten the look and feel of the space. The designer knew she wanted a natural palette with some textural quality. The team started with the arched nook for the range as the primary feature. The Mediterranean tile selected is from Artistic Tile. The ceiling height is fairly low, so they kept the cabinetry simple and classic, painting the main cabinets Simple White from Benjamin Moore and the island Hale Navy to add a punch of color.

Other Contributors: Mike Carr, Natalie Breen, Orlando Rivera Carrion

Traditional kitchen design awards
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Paula Greer

Bilotta Kitchen & Home
Harrison

This kitchen design embodies the Hygge aesthetic, which features natural materials, clean design, and light colors. The pale, wood-like, porcelain-tile flooring sets the tone for the space. The cabinetry is painted light blue on the perimeter, and a cream color covers the island. White-oak floating shelves showcase decorative items and cookbooks, but the crown jewel of this design is the range and vent hood. A cream La Cornue range was chosen with brass trim. A custom, curved plaster hood is accented by white-oak edging and sweeping corbels. Brass appears again in the faucet, island pendants, and the eclectic mix of hardware. Gray-and-honey-veined Danby marble countertops were selected, complemented by a handmade white subway tile for the backsplash.

Other Contributors: Sunrise Building & Remodeling

inset kitchen cabinets
Photo by Stefan Radtke

Debra Kling

Debra Kling Colour Consultant
Dobbs Ferry

This project began by removing several supporting columns that interrupted the space. This allowed the team to construct an extra deep island, providing a dining surface large enough to accommodate the entire family with bonus storage beneath. The star of this kitchen is the black-and-brass La Cornue stove and corresponding hood. Brass library pulls were chosen to coordinate. Both the countertops and backsplash are engineered quartz with light veining, and an induction cooktop was installed for the homeowner, who is a baker of extraordinary cakes.

Other Contributors: First Class Woodworking

Kitchen island
Photo by Brian Madden, Madden Studio

Randy O’Kane

Bilotta Kitchen & Home
Larchmont

This clean and classic white kitchen was a true collaboration between the architect (and homeowner), his wife, the kitchen designer, project engineer, and builder. Situated in a Mediterranean-style house, the team decided to replicate the existing Roman arches through the rest of the house and transformed the doorways leading into the space. The soft, white palette is accented with polished-brass hardware, stools, lighting, faucet, hood, and range knobs. For the wall cabinets on the range and sink side, the team designed special, leaded-glass inserts in black for a more refined look and to replicate the feel of the patio doors, a detail that is repeated in other areas of the design. The color and texture of the white-oak herringbone floor adds an extra layer of warmth. And the quartz countertops have just the right amount of veining not to be a distraction.

Other Contributors: Ingersoll Architect, EC Builders

White traditional kitchen
Amanda Berce Photo

-Whole Home Design-

Nina Draddy

Nina Draddy Interior Design
Rye

bedroom design awards
Siobhan Stanton Photography
Bedroom Design Awards 2023
Photo by Siobhan Stanton Photography
living space
Siobhan Stanton Photography

This Rye home was purchased by a young family and first-time homeowners, who wanted to create a transitional family-friendly house that felt personal. This included an update to what was a dark kitchen, refinishing the floors throughout, replacing outdated flooring, replacing light fixtures, refacing the fireplace, and adding custom built-ins. With a cohesive color palette, updates throughout, and new investment pieces, the end result was exactly what the homeowners wanted to make this house their home.

Other Contributors: Igor Levchuk, Roy Duckworth, Alli Eberhardt

dining room
Siobhan Stanton Photography
kitchen
Siobhan Stanton Photography

Jason Taylor and Nick Viazzo

Taylor-Viazzo Architects
White Plains

home design
Photo by Jason Taylor
bedroom suite
Photo by Jason Taylor

This 1950s split-level house had been renovated many times before and was a mashup of architectural styles. The team studied the home’s underlying forms to make it more cohesive and true to itself. The end result is a modern approach with industrial architecture. The styles blended naturally with the homeowner’s midcentury essence and helped inform the decisions throughout the process. The new exterior design wraps the building in dark-gray fiber cement siding with ipe-wood rainscreen accents. The home’s interior was virtually gutted and rebuilt, with only a few original walls remaining. In the kitchen the industrial style was elegantly expressed by exposing the ceiling joists. A warm, cohesive palette defines the living spaces with the use of concrete-inspired porcelain, dark-wood flooring, and black window frames. Outside the house, new front stairs, back stairs, two patios, and retaining walls were constructed, as well as new landscaping.

Other Contributors: Freeform Construction, Kenneth Doppelt, Florence Corp, Barbara Taylor Designs

front entrance
Photo by Jason Taylor
modern bathroom
Photo by Jason Taylor

Jennifer Howard

JWH Design & Cabinetry
Rye

Living room
Photo by Brain Madden, Madden Studio
dining room
Photo by Brain Madden, Madden Studio

The interior of this 1960s Colonial was transformed from top to bottom for a young family. Three feet of rock was chipped away in the basement to achieve functional ceiling heights, which now includes a mudroom, play space, workout room, and full bathroom. Meanwhile, the third-floor walk-up attic became home to a guest suite and expanded playroom. Dark hallways and cramped spaces were opened to maximize natural light and flow. New French doors to the backyard provide the backdrop for the soft, gray-blue cabinetry with mixed marble backsplash in the kitchen. And soft pastels were used throughout the design with light fixtures and furnishings throughout the dining room, living room, and sunroom. Upstairs, the primary suite includes a beautiful bathroom with freestanding tub centered on the double window, a full alcove shower, dressing area, and plenty of storage.

Other Contributors: JWH Construction Management, Carol Love, JWH Interior Design

kitchen space
Photo by Brain Madden, Madden Studio
fireplace design awards
Photo by Brain Madden, Madden Studio

Related: The Westchester Home Design Awards Finalists & Winners in 2022

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