Interiors: A Belgian Home that Breaks the Mold

"...the Verney house stands out like a woman wearing edgy Alexander Wang among a flock of matrons in classic twin sets." - Elle Decor

Not only do I love the fashion reference, but this quote immediately conveys how different Alix and Bruno Verney's home must be from its neighbors. Designed by Belgian architect Frédéric Haesevoets, the house greets visitors with a near windowless facade of stone and concrete. But once inside, the structure gives way to modern, sunlit interiors overlooking a lush landscape. With a house like this, who cares what the neighbors think?

"We are not afraid to be different" - Bruno Verney

Images: Richard Powers, Elle Decor

Interiors: A Modern, Organic Beach House

After commissioning Kelly Wearstler to renovate her New York City loft, an "anonymous, A-list actress" tapped the designer again to revive a 70's-era beach house just south of LA. While many would regard its wood paneling as an eye sore, both the designer and home owner embraced its natural beauty. Using a neutral palette, Kelly added her usual glam along with contrasting textures of the rough and refined.

The two-story, carved ceramic fireplace, by local artist Stan Bitters, is flanked with 1960’s Italian alpaca chairs. An Italian brass-and-gunmetal chandelier hangs from above. (Below) A study in varying textures and finishes.

More mid-century modern touches can be found in the dining nook, with its classic Warren Platner chairs. Of the warm, honey-colored wood paneling found throughout, Kelly muses, "You feel like you are on a boat or the set of a James Bond film." See more pics after the jump.

Images: Grey Crawford, Rhapsody

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Interiors: Maria Baibakova's Artsy Miami Penthouse

Interiors plus fashion plus art plus Miami?!?! Harper's Bazaar brings together a few of my favorite things in their editorial featuring art aficionado Maria Baibakova. Her Miami penthouse resembles a modern museum, with crisp white walls and a stellar contemporary art collection. The home looks spacious and sparse – a perfect venue for fabulous soirees or simply relaxing among Maria's prized pieces and Florida sunshine.

I find Maria's dress/shoe combos equally captivating. It's as if she was styled using my dream wardrobe: (Looks 1-4) Donna Karan/Giorgio Armani; Bottega Veneta/Manolo Blahnik for Holmes & Yang; Derek Lam/Giorgio Armani; and Vera Wang/Christian Louboutin.

Images: Christopher Sturman, Harper's Bazaar

Interiors: Another Masculine Madrid Apartment

I can't get enough of these modern, Madridian bachelor pads. Today’s post features the eclectic home of fashion designer Miguel Palacio. This penthouse offers stunning views of Madrid’s skyline as well as a mix of vintage furniture, custom pieces, and a fab collection of photography.

Miguel's home is also a lesson in small-space design. High ceilings, opened up to the rafters, and ample natural light make up for square footage while well-placed mirrors and other shiny surfaces create visual space. Even the kitchen, hidden away by space-saving pocket doors, helps reflect light with glossy cabinets and a mirrored backsplash.

Images: Paul Zuloaga, Elle Spain

Interiors: Francesca Connolly's Brookyln Home

Perhaps it's my northeast upbringing, but I just love a handsome, old townhouse. While some have memories of suburban cul-de-sacs, front yards, and garages, many of us view shared walls with the same nostalgic fondness. My childhood rowhome had the tiniest rooms but the tallest ceilings with molding and trim that are now considered luxuries. The walls were solid, dampening most noise from next door. But, once outside, neighbors chitchatted with ease, thanks to the community esplanade - a series of connected front porches up and down Muhlenberg Street. So, yes, I'm incredibly partial, but one doesn't need childhood memories to appreciate the gorgeous Brooklyn home of the Remodelista’s Francesca Connolly.

Francesa commissioned architect Steven Harris and interior designer Lucien Rees Roberts to remodel her 1890s townhouse, restoring it to the original floor plan. From there, the team worked together to create a minimalist home with modern furnishings and the occasional touch of glamour. Francesca aptly describes her home as the right white shirt. "Timeless, crisp, and respectful...," it fits her family and life perfectly.

Images: (1, 3, 4) William Waldron, Elle Decor, (2, 5-7) Steven Harris Architects