The Shapanskys' home renovation project is a testament to the power of creativity and the potential of a blank canvas. Their decision to preserve the late Victorian-era red brick exterior and create a new, contemporary house on the interior is a brilliant example of how a back-to-the-bricks overhaul can be a transformative experience. The result is a stunning home that seamlessly blends old and new, creating a unique and captivating living space.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this renovation is the couple's emphasis on art and design. Mr. Shapansky's belief that a modern house should be a canvas for art is evident throughout the home. The use of glass panels created by the late artist Feliciano Béjar in the partition wall between the hallway and dining room is a particularly intriguing feature. The couple's extensive collection of furniture, paintings, and sculptures is on full display, with the white interior serving as a backdrop for their beloved art pieces.
The renovation also showcases the couple's attention to detail and their willingness to think outside the box. The replacement of the old servants' staircase with an elevator that services all four levels is a practical and innovative solution. The creation of unusual height in the new house by lowering the level of the floor in the combined kitchen and family room is another example of their creative approach. The use of original elements, such as the front door, pocket doors, wainscotting, and fireplace mantle, in the outdoor space is a subtle nod to the home's history, adding a layer of depth and character to the design.
The Shapanskys' home renovation project is a testament to the power of creativity and the potential of a blank canvas. Their decision to preserve the late Victorian-era red brick exterior and create a new, contemporary house on the interior is a brilliant example of how a back-to-the-bricks overhaul can be a transformative experience. The result is a stunning home that seamlessly blends old and new, creating a unique and captivating living space.
In my opinion, the Shapanskys' home renovation project is a masterpiece of modern design and a shining example of how a blank canvas can be transformed into a work of art. Their attention to detail, emphasis on art and design, and creative approach to renovation make their home a truly remarkable space. It is a testament to the power of creativity and the potential of a blank canvas, and it serves as an inspiration to anyone considering a similar project.
