Architectural and interior design firm Sonya Lee Architect has shared photos of a 1930s home they renovated in Queens, New York, that includes an interesting design detail.
As working from home has become much more popular, especially over the last few years, the designers included a desk hidden in the primary bedroom.
A little door in the side wall of the closet opens to reveal a desk that’s neatly folded away. When needed, you simply slide it out, and the leg and desktop fold out, creating a home office area. For storage, there’s an open corner shelf right behind the chair.
Let’s take a look at the rest of the house, which also includes an indoor treehouse…
Nestled in the landmarked district in Forest Hills Gardens, this stately 1930s Tudor home had fallen in utter disrepair over the years with mold and water damage throughout. In spite of its condition, the clients had the ability to see beyond the patina and engaged Sonya Lee Architect to bring new life for their family of four. This is the street view of the updated home.
At the rear of the home, an overgrown patio was given a fresh look with new pavers, flowers, a fence, a seating area, and glass and wood patio doors.
Entering the home, there’s a mudroom with custom cabinetry providing ample storage.
On the ground floor, the living room had been previously cut off from the narrow sunroom, which was
flooded with floor-to-ceiling windows. Opening up this space, bathed the living room with natural light and allowed for a more comfortable seating arrangement, while new built-in glass cabinets flank the gas fireplace.
The kitchen was reconfigured and opened up to the dining room. The new layout allowed for significantly more storage and counter space, a large curved kitchen island with counter seating, and a cerused white oak pantry. There’s also a seating area that wraps around the corner.
In the bedrooms upstairs, new finishes, lighting, built-in cabinetry, and closets were provided in each room, creating cohesive, modern yet comfortable spaces.
In a children’s bedroom, custom cabinetry and shelving add lots of storage and display areas.
The existing attic space was clad in knotty pine throughout, resembling a 1970s chalet. It was dimly lit and utterly uninsulated. The new design dedicated the large space for a guest bedroom and playroom. A modern “treehouse” was suspended from the roof beams with playful openings and a balcony view from the 14’ ceiling.
The second floor was reconfigured to allow for en-suite bathrooms in each of the four bedrooms on
this floor, with the primary bathroom featuring a glass-enclosed shower, and a double vanity.
In this bathroom, a pale blue accent provides a backdrop for the round mirror, while the tiled floor is a much bolder blue.
In another bathroom, a stained glass window surrounded by white subway tiles creates a colorful accent.
