#converted home

Couple build their own stunning off grid home from old way railway carriage

Who would have imagined that old railway carriages could be transformed into a stunning, elegant off-grid home?

This vision is far-fetched but was realized by a couple 8 years after discovering the old railways in the Central Otago region in the South Island of New Zealand. The South Island couple Mandy and Daman Groshinki wanted a new home close to Haast and apparently near the sea. This was…

Going to the Chapel

That’s right! It’s another church conversion! I love these, and I particularly enjoyed the cozy feel of this space--perfect for a holiday getaway. Evolution Design beautifully converted this chapel in Forest-in-Teesdale, England, UK--a vacant holiday cottage that was actually in a sad state of disrepair. “The Chapel on the Hill,” set in a lush countryside, keeps its historic exterior while the inside is packed with modern-rustic charm. I love the mix of different wood tones throughout the home and the fact that they paired a more elaborate backsplash in the kitchen with a touch of subway tile. Keeping within a black and white palette allows the look to remain very pure, especially when combined with all the wood accents. Did I mention it’s available to rent on Airbnb?

Take Me to Church

You all know how I can’t resist a converted interior. I was first drawn to this place because it features my favourite light fixture on the planet, l’atomium by Lambert & Fils, a Montreal lighting design company. It’s the brass fixture right above the dining table. The building was originally a church and has now been transformed into a home for a family with three children in Chicago, Illinois. The place boasts 7 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms and the ceiling in the great room reaches 25ft! The original historic details of the church such as the stained glass windows and bell tower were preserved and stand out against the modern furnishings and finishes. How unique is that textured wallpaper in the bathroom?