Beyond the Facade - The Psychology and History of Curb Appeal

The Art of Curb Appeal: Transforming Exteriors

Curb appeal isn’t just about making a home look good - it’s about creating an experience, one that starts long before anyone steps through your front door. Think of it as the opening chapter of a book: it sets the tone, draws you in, and leaves an impression that lingers. Yet, so often, the exterior of a home is treated as an afterthought, a mere box to tick off on a checklist.

But here’s the reality: the exterior of your home speaks volumes. Studies have shown that first impressions are formed in mere seconds, and the appearance of a home’s facade can influence everything from our emotions to our sense of well-being. There’s a reason why some homes make us feel instantly at ease, while others feel cold and unwelcoming.

Historically, curb appeal has always mattered. Think back to the grand Georgian townhouses of London, with their stately doors and wrought iron railings, designed not just to impress but to reflect the homeowner’s status. Or the charming canal houses of Amsterdam, where every facade tells a story, each detail evidence to the city’s commitment to beauty and harmony. These weren’t just aesthetic choices - they were statements of pride, of belonging, of a deeper connection to the place.

In today’s world, however, curb appeal is too often reduced to a quick makeover before a house hits the market. But what if we approached it differently? What if, instead of treating the exterior as a backdrop, we saw it as an integral part of the story a home tells?

Because here’s the thing: curb appeal isn’t just for buyers or neighbours. It’s for you. It’s about creating a space that uplifts you every time you come home, that makes you pause and smile, even on the busiest of days.

Timeless Curb Appeal: This classic Georgian facade showcases the art of creating an inviting entrance. From the perfectly symmetrical windows to the crisp white pediment and the thoughtfully placed potted greenery, every detail elevates the aesthetic charm. Proof that even small touches, like a seasonal wreath, can make a striking impact.

The Science Behind Curb Appeal: How Design Impacts Well-being

Curb appeal isn’t just about appearances – again it’s about how spaces make us feel. There’s a growing body of research showing that our surroundings profoundly impact our mental health, stress levels, and even physical well-being. And when it comes to exteriors, the science is clear: thoughtful design has the power to transform how we experience the world.

Take greenery, for example. Studies have consistently shown that exposure to plants and natural elements can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mood. It’s no coincidence that cities like London, Amsterdam and Copenhagen weave green spaces directly into their urban fabric. From living walls to tree-lined streets, these elements don’t just beautify - they create environments that promote health and happiness.

Lighting plays an equally powerful role. A home with carefully placed exterior lighting doesn’t just look welcoming - it actually triggers a psychological response, signalling safety and comfort. This is why cities like London and Stockholm invest heavily in strategic urban lighting, using soft glows to highlight architectural features and create a sense of warmth. Compare that to harsh floodlights or unlit paths, which can evoke feelings of unease or neglect.

Even colour has its own psychological influence. Warm, earthy tones can make a space feel inviting and grounded, while vibrant hues like blues or greens evoke energy and tranquillity. There’s a reason why the iconic doors of Dublin’s Georgian homes are painted in bold, eye-catching shades: they stand out against the uniform brick facades, creating a delightful sense of individuality.

But it’s not just about the aesthetics. Curb appeal, when done well, can also foster a deeper sense of connection - to your home, your neighbourhood, and even nature. Biophilic design, a concept that integrates natural elements into architecture, has been shown to enhance creativity, improve focus, and boost well-being. Imagine coming home to a facade adorned with cascading ivy, or a front garden filled with fragrant herbs and flowers. It’s not just beautiful - it’s restorative.

A facade that breathes: cascading ivy not only enhances curb appeal but fosters a connection to nature, turning a simple building into a restorative, living artwork.

In Luxembourg, curb appeal often feels like an afterthought - a few planters here, a freshly painted wall there. But what if we took cues from cities that have mastered the art of design as a tool for well-being? What if curb appeal became more than a cosmetic effort, evolving into an approach that prioritized how spaces make people feel?

The science is already there. The challenge is translating it into action, using design not just to impress, but to uplift. Because when we rethink curb appeal, we’re not just designing exteriors - we’re designing experiences.

Lessons from London - How Historic Neighbourhoods Master Curb Appeal

London is a city of layers, where history and modernity coexist in ways that feel seamless and intentional. Its historic neighbourhoods, like Kensington, Chelsea, and Blackheath, offer masterclasses in curb appeal that are as inspiring as they are timeless. These areas prove that the art of creating a visually striking exterior isn’t just about following trends - it’s about crafting spaces that feel alive, enduring, and deeply connected to their surroundings.

Notting Hill’s pastel facades - proof that charm is cultivated, not accidental. A neighborhood where small details, like overflowing window boxes, turn streets into vibrant, living canvases.

Take a walk-through Notting Hill, for instance, where pastel-coloured facades and overflowing window boxes create a streetscape that feels almost cinematic. Here, the charm isn’t accidental - it’s the result of community pride and small, deliberate acts of care. Residents often participate in competitions for the best flower displays, turning ordinary streets into vibrant, living canvases. It’s a celebration of individuality within the context of a cohesive whole.

Then there’s Blackheath Village, where the emphasis on preserving architectural continuity creates a sense of stability and timelessness. Its facades are understated yet elegant, combining traditional brickwork with subtle modern updates. The effect is one of harmony: a neighbourhood that honours its history while remaining relevant and inviting. It’s a stark contrast to Luxembourg’s old village centres, where preservation often takes a backseat to redevelopment.

Chelsea mews exemplify London’s mastery of curb appeal: ivy-covered facades, curated greenery, and harmonious designs that transform even the tightest urban spaces into welcoming sanctuaries.

Kensington and Chelsea, two of London’s most iconic districts, take curb appeal to another level by weaving in green accents at every turn. From climbing ivy to immaculately maintained garden squares, these neighbourhoods show how greenery can soften the urban landscape and create spaces that feel both luxurious and welcoming. Even in tight spaces, planters and potted trees are used creatively to frame doorways and windows, making every facade feel curated and cared for.

A snapshot of Kensington charm: potted trees, wrought-iron balconies, and perfectly preserved details reflect the district’s commitment to elegance and collective identity, where even the streets tell a story.

What makes London stand out is its understanding that curb appeal isn’t just about individual homes - it’s about the collective identity of a neighbourhood. This is why so many of its historic areas have strict guidelines on renovations and external changes. The result? Streets that feel cohesive without sacrificing personality, where every detail - whether it’s a polished brass doorknob or a splash of unexpected colour - adds to the story.

Luxembourg could learn a lot from London’s approach. Imagine if its older village centres were treated with the same respect, with efforts to preserve their unique features rather than replacing them with generic new builds. Imagine neighbourhoods that celebrated their quirks instead of erasing them.

Curb appeal isn’t just about looking good - it’s about creating a sense of belonging, of pride, of connection.

The Netherlands - The Art of Blending Function and Beauty

If there’s one country that knows how to make every square meter count, it’s the Netherlands. Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are living proof that functionality and beauty don’t have to be at odds - they can (and should) coexist. When it comes to curb appeal, the Dutch don’t just decorate their streets; they design them to be inviting, purposeful, and utterly unique.

Take Amsterdam’s iconic canal houses, for example. These tall, narrow facades, with their oversized windows and gabled roofs, are a testament to the Dutch commitment to balancing practicality with aesthetics. Each home tells a story - not just of its architecture, but of the people who live there. Window sills are adorned with curated collections of books, plants, or art, inviting passersby to feel a sense of connection, even in the middle of a bustling city.

Amsterdam’s canal houses showcase the perfect marriage of practicality and charm, where curated windowsills and iconic gabled roofs create a sense of connection in the heart of the city.

Then there’s the greenery. The Dutch don’t rely on sprawling gardens or vast lawns to create a connection to nature. Instead, they masterfully incorporate plants into even the most urban settings. Think trellises covered in ivy, bike racks surrounded by potted shrubs, and vertical gardens that transform blank walls into living artworks. These touches don’t just make the streets more attractive - they create spaces that feel alive and breathing.

Dutch streets redefined: thoughtful urban design merges greenery with functionality, creating spaces that invite connection and reflect a deep respect for nature.

But the real genius of Dutch curb appeal lies in its sustainability. The Netherlands leads the way in integrating eco-friendly principles into its designs. From permeable paving that prevents flooding to green roofs that reduce urban heat, the Dutch don’t just make their homes look good - they make them work smarter for the environment.

What’s more, there’s a sense of communal pride in the way Dutch neighbourhoods present themselves. Residents take ownership of their streets, often collaborating to maintain shared spaces. It’s not unusual to see a row of homes with perfectly coordinated planters or a public bench decorated with fresh flowers. This sense of unity extends beyond aesthetics - it fosters a deeper connection between neighbours.

Luxembourg, by contrast, often feels stuck between two extremes: the highly polished modern developments and the neglected charm of its older village centres. The Dutch approach offers a middle ground - one that values history and tradition while embracing innovation and sustainability. Imagine if Luxembourg’s older neighbourhoods adopted similar principles, blending their rustic charm with thoughtful, modern touches.

Because curb appeal isn’t just about impressing others - it’s about creating spaces that make you feel at home, that make you proud to walk down your street. And when it comes to blending function and beauty, the Dutch have set a standard that the rest of us would do well to follow.

Practical Curb Appeal Tips Grounded in Science and History

Curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about creating a space that resonates with both history and modern sensibilities. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home’s exterior or embark on a complete transformation, these tips draw inspiration from timeless principles and cutting-edge research.

1. Start with a Story Every home has a narrative waiting to be told. Draw inspiration from the architectural style or the history of your property. Is it a rustic farmhouse? A mid-century modern gem? Let its unique character guide your choices. For example, Georgian homes often look stunning with bold, jewel-toned doors, while minimalist modern facades benefit from clean lines and neutral palettes. The goal is to highlight the soul of your home, not mask it.

2. Use Colour to Make an Impact Colour is one of the most powerful tools in curb appeal. Studies show that certain hues evoke specific emotions: greens and blues for calm, yellows for warmth, and reds for energy. Take a cue from Amsterdam’s colourful canal houses or London’s iconic red front doors. Even a subtle change, like repainting shutters or trim, can completely transform the mood of your facade.

3. Incorporate Greenery with a Purpose Green spaces aren’t just pretty - they’re good for the planet and your well-being. Choose plants that thrive in your local climate and add depth to your exterior. Vertical gardens and climbing plants are great for smaller spaces, while well-placed pots and planters can frame doorways or windows. Think of how the Dutch use greenery to soften their urban environments - practical and beautiful.

Ornate Elegance: This intricately crafted wooden door exudes timeless character and charm, framed by a beautifully arched stone entryway. The wrought iron grille and decorative carvings add a touch of artistry, while the symmetrical potted plants enhance the curb appeal with natural sophistication. A perfect balance of tradition and design

4. Let There Be Light Good lighting does more than brighten a space - it creates an ambiance. Experiment with soft, warm lighting to highlight architectural features or guide pathways. Uplighting can transform trees and shrubs into nighttime sculptures, while lantern-style fixtures bring a timeless elegance. And don’t forget energy-efficient options like LED and solar lights - they’re kind to both your wallet and the environment.

5. Focus on the Details Sometimes, the smallest changes have the biggest impact. Consider upgrading your house numbers to a sleek, modern style or adding a statement mailbox. Window boxes with seasonal flowers can breathe life into a facade, while a well-chosen welcome mat adds personality to your doorstep.

6. Create a Welcoming Pathway A beautiful path invites people into your home. Use natural stone, bricks, or even gravel to add texture and charm. Flank the pathway with soft lighting or low hedges to create a sense of arrival.

Case Study: How Thoughtful Curb Appeal Transformed London’s Blackheath

Blackheath Village, nestled on the edge of one of London’s most iconic green spaces, is a masterclass in how thoughtful design and a commitment to preservation can elevate an entire community. This isn’t just a story of well-maintained facades - it’s about the interplay between architecture, nature, and a sense of continuity that fosters belonging.

The village’s charm lies in its subtlety. You won’t find flashy modern constructions here. Instead, Blackheath’s appeal comes from its preserved Georgian and Victorian townhouses, each one meticulously cared for. The facades tell a story of continuity, of a community that values its architectural heritage. It’s a stark contrast to the relentless drive for redevelopment seen in places like Luxembourg, where old village centres often fall victim to the wrecking ball.

But Blackheath’s success isn’t just about preserving the past - it’s about how the village interacts with its surroundings. The vast green expanse of Blackheath provides a backdrop that feels both grounding and expansive, offering residents and visitors alike a sense of peace and connection to nature. The streets leading into the village are lined with mature trees, their canopies creating dappled light that softens the urban edges.

This isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about creating an environment that invites people to linger, to explore, to feel part of something larger. It’s why Blackheath remains one of London’s most sought-after areas. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to belong.

Contrast this with the approach often seen in Luxembourg. Too often, the focus is on maximizing space and profit, with little thought given to how buildings fit into their surroundings or serve their communities. The lesson from Blackheath is clear: curb appeal isn’t just about making things look pretty - it’s about creating spaces that resonate with people on a deeper level, spaces that tell a story and stand the test of time.

As Luxembourg continues to grow and change, imagine what could be achieved if old village centres were restored with the same care and attention to detail. If trees and greenery were seen as integral to urban design, rather than optional extras. If every facade told a story worth listening to.

Blackheath is proof that curb appeal isn’t just a cosmetic effort - it’s a reflection of a community’s values. And when done well, it has the power to transform not just homes, but entire neighbourhoods.

Conclusion: Curb Appeal as a Reflection of Values

Curb appeal is so much more than a visual upgrade - it’s a reflection of our values, both as individuals and as communities. It tells the world what we prioritize, how we connect to our surroundings, and what kind of life we aspire to live. When done thoughtfully, it’s not just about impressing others - it’s about creating a space that feels welcoming, inspiring, and uniquely ours.

London’s Blackheath and the Dutch cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht remind us that curb appeal can be both deeply personal and profoundly communal. These places show how small details - a splash of colour, a touch of greenery, a nod to history - can elevate an entire neighbourhood. They demonstrate that thoughtful design has the power to transform not just facades, but the way we experience the world.

Luxembourg, with its resources and potential, stands at a crossroads. It could continue down the path of relentless development, prioritizing profit over personality, or it could take inspiration from places that have embraced the art of curb appeal as a tool for well-being, sustainability, and community pride. The choice is ours to make.

For readers, the message is simple: take a fresh look at your own home’s exterior. What does it say about you? What story does it tell? Whether it’s as small as adding a flower box or as ambitious as reimagining your entire facade, every change matters. Because curb appeal isn’t just about what others see - it’s about how it makes you feel every time you come home.

I believe that thoughtful design has the power to inspire, to connect, and to transform. Curb appeal is just the beginning - a starting point for rethinking how we shape the spaces that shape us. So, let’s stop settling for the ordinary. Let’s aim higher, dig deeper, and create exteriors that reflect the very best of who we are.

written by Helen M. Krauss

Book Recommendations:

1. "The Decoration of Houses" by Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr.: A classic text on timeless design principles that extend from interiors to facades.

2. "At Home: A Short History of Private Life" by Bill Bryson: A humorous and insightful exploration of how architecture and design shape our daily lives.

3. "Soft City: Building Density for Everyday Life" by David Sim: A thought-provoking look at urban design and how thoughtful spaces can transform communities.

4. "Living in Style: Inspiration and Advice for Everyday Glamour" by Rachel Zoe: While focused on interiors, this book provides ideas that can inspire exterior design choices.

5. "The Nature of Home: Creating Timeless Houses" by Jeffrey Dungan: Explores how natural materials and thoughtful design create timeless beauty.

The stories walls could tell: Reflecting on the History Embedded in Old Homes

Walking through the winding streets of Mondorf-les-Bains, there’s a palpable sense of history in the air, as though the past is whispering through every cobblestone and weathered brick. In the old village center, time seems to flow differently, lingering in the shadows of narrow alleys and sunlit facades.

The contrast is striking: while the modern parts of town embrace clean lines and contemporary aesthetics, there’s something profoundly grounding in the timeless charm of this quiet corner, where some homes have stood for over a century.

A glimpse into the historic charm of Mondorf-les-Bains' old village center. This serene corner, with its facades and timeless architecture, stands as a testament to the enduring whispers of history amidst a rapidly modernizing townscape.

Our own home with its blue facade, built in the 1870s, sits amidst this mix of old and new. When we first stepped through the door, I was struck by the way it seemed to tell its own story through its high ceilings adorned with stucco, the wall tiles that line the hallway, and the original cement tiles underfoot that have witnessed countless footsteps over a century. There’s an authenticity to these spaces that you simply can’t replicate, a sense of continuity that connects us to the generations who came before.

In Luxembourg, where so much of its architectural past has been sacrificed in favour of modern developments, choosing to preserve rather than demolish feels almost like an act of rebellion.

The old village center, once home to craftsmen, builders, and farmers, tells a different story from the now mostly vanished glamour of the Jugendstil properties that once graced the thermal bath area. As I walk through our hallway and sitting room, past the antique fireplaces and the original wooden flooring, I can’t help but feel that we’re caretakers of something worth preserving, not just for ourselves, but for the history embedded within these walls.

A closer look at the heart of the home: the antique fireplace, historic stone walls, and carefully chosen details that keep the stories of the past alive.

This is the starting point for how I approach design. It’s not simply about making a space look good, but about listening to what a place has to say and honoring its past. Because at the end of the day, design is not just a matter of aesthetics, it’s about the stories we choose to tell and the ones we choose to keep alive.

The Emotional Weight of Old Homes

Mondorf-les-Bains: The historic entrance to the park, where past and present converge. This charming scene captures a time when the town's elegant streets led visitors to the lush greenery of the thermal park, a place of relaxation and social life. The grand facades, tree-lined avenues, and timeless atmosphere remind us of an era when Mondorf thrived as a destination for leisure and well-being.

Stepping into an old home is like opening a well-worn book, each corner, crack, and creak has a story to tell. It’s an experience that goes beyond the visual; it’s something you feel the moment you cross the threshold. There’s an almost palpable energy to these spaces, where the walls seem to hum with the echoes of laughter, whispered conversations, and the everyday lives of those who came before.

When we first moved into our house, I found myself wondering about the lives lived within its walls. Who were the people who walked across these tiles, who lived and laughed in these rooms? What stories did they leave behind, quietly embedded in the worn wooden floors and the ornate stucco ceilings? There’s something profoundly reassuring and soothing about inhabiting a space that has seen the world change around it for over a century.

But with that sense of history comes a responsibility, a duty to honour the past while making the home our own. It’s a delicate balance. In many ways, the design choices we make are less about imposing a new vision and more about uncovering what’s already there. It’s not simply about restoring period features for the sake of nostalgia but about recognizing the value they bring in grounding the space, giving it soul and substance.

In a world that often prioritizes the sleek and the new, there’s a streak of rebellion in choosing to preserve.

Older homes in Mondorf’s old village center, carry the weight of a community’s history. The hand-laid tiles, the timeworn doors, and the high ceilings, they’re all reminders of a time when things were built to last. To strip that away in favour of something modern and efficient feels like erasing a chapter of the town’s story.

A renovated farmhouse in Mondorf – an example of how old structures can be modernized with charm and care.

Preserving these elements isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about keeping the connection to a bygone era alive. It’s about understanding that the quirks and imperfections, those little nicks in the woodwork, the slight unevenness of the floors - are not flaws to be fixed but rather reminders of the passage of time. They ground us in a way that new builds, however perfectly polished, simply cannot.

So, when I look at the old fireplace in our home or run my hand along the cool, smooth tiles in the hallway, I’m reminded that design is as much about honouring the past as it is about creating something new. It’s about carrying forward the stories that matter, the ones that make a house feel like more than just walls and a roof, it makes it a home.

Lessons from the Past: The Craftsmanship of Older Homes

There’s something undeniably special about the craftsmanship of period homes, a kind of artistry that seems to have faded in the rush of modern construction. Walking through our house in Mondorf: the original wooden floors that have weathered more than a century, and the solid wooden doors that still close with a satisfying weight. These elements are more than just remnants of another time - they are testaments to an era when creating something durable and beautiful was a matter of pride.

In today’s world, where speed and efficiency often trump quality, it’s easy to forget that homes were once built to stand the test of time. Back then, floors weren’t just laid down; they were hand-fitted with precision, meant to endure generations of footsteps. This is why, when renovating our own home, we made the conscious choice to preserve these features wherever possible. It wasn’t just about maintaining the aesthetic; it was about respecting the craftsmanship and care that had gone into creating them.

The charm of imperfection: exposed beams and slightly uneven floors in this luxemburgisch townhouse from 1912 remind us that older homes carry a warmth and humanity that modern construction often misses.

The beauty of older homes lies in their imperfections. The slightly uneven floors, the gentle creak of old wood underfoot, these are the details that give a space character and warmth. In contrast, modern construction often strives for perfection, leaving little room for the charm that comes with age. But it’s precisely these “flaws” that can make a space feel more inviting, more human. They remind us that homes are meant to be lived in, to age and evolve just as we do.

When it came to updating our home, my goal wasn’t to erase these marks of time but to enhance them. In the hallway, for instance, we chose to keep the original patterned cement tiles, allowing their faded beauty to shine through.

The juxtaposition of these traditional elements with more modern materials - like sleek metal lighting fixtures and minimalist shelving - creates a dialogue between past and present. It’s a way of honouring the history embedded in the house while bringing it into the 21st century.

In a world where everything is becoming increasingly homogenized, there’s something refreshing about choosing to preserve what’s unique. It’s not just about holding on to the past for nostalgia’s sake but about understanding that these older materials and techniques have a quality that can’t be replicated. The thick plaster walls, the hand-carved mouldings, the way light filters through old glass windows - these are qualities that give a space its soul.

Preserving the craftsmanship of older homes doesn’t mean shunning modern design; rather, it’s about finding a balance. It’s about taking the best of what was and blending it with what is, to create spaces that feel timeless, not trendy. In this way, the home becomes a canvas where old and new coexist, each highlighting the other’s strengths.

The Impact of Design on Well-being

Design is often seen as a luxury, a way to make spaces more beautiful, more stylish. But at its core, design is about much more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating environments that enhance the quality of life. In older homes like ours, the design choices we make can have a profound effect on how we feel, how we interact with the space, and even how we experience the world around us.

One of the most surprising aspects of renovating an older home is realizing just how much the design of a space can influence your mood. It’s not simply about choosing the right colours or materials; it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels right. In our home, the decision to keep the original features, i.e. the high ceilings, the old wooden doors, the patterned tiles, wasn’t just about preserving history. It was about creating a sense of continuity, a feeling of being rooted in something enduring. There’s a certain comfort in being surrounded by elements that have stood the test of time, that have witnessed the passing of years and still hold their own.

Research has shown that the spaces we inhabit can have a direct impact on our well-being. Natural materials like wood and stone, soft lighting, and thoughtful layouts can help reduce stress and create a sense of calm. This is why, when updating our home, I focused on incorporating elements that promote a feeling of warmth and security. The blend of antique features with modern touches was a conscious choice to create a space that feels both grounded and current, a place where we can relax and recharge.

The combination of natural materials, soft lighting, and a thoughtful mix of antique and modern elements creates a warm, calming retreat that invites relaxation and recharge.

One of the most powerful tools in creating a sense of well-being is light. The way light filters through a room can transform how we experience a space. In our hallway, for example, we opted for a combination of soft ambient lighting and natural light from the stained glass panels on the front door. This creates a gentle glow that feels welcoming, almost like a warm embrace as you step inside. It’s these little details that can turn a house into a sanctuary, a place where you can truly feel at home.

But it’s not just about the physical aspects of design; it’s also about how a space makes you feel emotionally. I’ve always believed that a well-designed room should tell a story, that it should evoke a certain feeling as soon as you walk in. Whether it’s the cozy warmth of a reading nook, the inviting energy of a kitchen designed for gatherings, or the serene calm of a bedroom retreat, each space has the potential to enhance our daily lives in subtle but significant ways.

As we continue to live in and update our home, I’ve once more realized that design is less about following trends and more about understanding what truly brings joy and comfort. It’s about creating spaces that feel authentic, that reflect who you are and how you want to live. And in the case of older homes, it’s about embracing the past while designing for the present, creating a bridge between what was and what is.

Conclusion: Honouring the Past, Designing for the Future

Preserving the history embedded in older homes is not just about maintaining their aesthetic charm, it’s about recognizing the value of what’s come before us and allowing it to shape the spaces we live in today. By thoughtfully blending old-world craftsmanship with modern elements, we can create homes that are both beautiful and meaningful, places that support our well-being and reflect who we are.

In upcoming posts, I will explore topics like sourcing high-quality materials, collaborating with skilled craftsmen, and finding trusted suppliers who share a passion for timeless design. I will explore the details that can elevate a space from ordinary to extraordinary.

I invite you to join me on this journey as we continue to explore the art and science of design. Let’s discover how we can create spaces that honor the past, enrich our present, and inspire the future.

written by Helen M. Krauss

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

If you’re interested in further exploring the themes I have touched on here, I highly recommend the following books:

1. “The Architecture of Happiness” by Alain de Botton: A philosophical exploration of how the design of our surroundings influences our emotions and sense of happiness.

2. “The Decoration of Houses” by Edith Wharton & Ogden Codman Jr.: A timeless guide on the principles of interior design that balance historical elements with modern functionality.

3. “A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction” by Christopher Alexander: A classic that delves into how spaces—from small rooms to entire cities—can be designed to bring joy, comfort, and functionality.

4. “Restoring a House in the City” by Ingrid Abramovitch: Filled with stunning photographs and practical advice, this book explores how to breathe new life into old urban homes while respecting their historical integrity.

5. “The New Old House: Historic & Modern Architecture Combined” by Marc Kristal: A collection of case studies that showcase how old homes can be thoughtfully restored and modernized, blending the past with the present.