ACADEMY HEIGHTS
SOUTH ORANGE, NEW JERSEY
Located in South Orange's Academy Heights neighborhood, this early-1900s home was purchased for its walkable, city-like location but arrived stripped of much of its original architectural character. The homeowners loved the energy of urban living and missed the loft spaces they had previously called home, yet wanted a residence that worked beautifully for family life and entertaining.
The design focused on restoring a sense of history while introducing the personality and functionality the home was missing. Throughout the first floor, bold color, layered pattern, custom millwork, and industrial-inspired details work together to create spaces that feel both soulful and lived-in. A brick kitchen backsplash evokes the raw character of a downtown loft, while deep blue cabinetry, graphic wallpapers, and curated furnishings bring warmth and individuality to every room. The interiors celebrate the homeowners' love of both maximalist color and industrial simplicity while reconnecting the house to its historic roots.
Photography: Brittany Ambridge
“Sarah's brief was to reimagine the whole of the first floor – including the kitchen, dining space, living room, and powder room — and turn it into a family home that brought together the two homeowners' styles, one being a colorful maximalist and one a lover of industrial style. The couple also wanted a touch of the loft-like vibe they had in their previous apartments, and of course, some nods to the original features of the home.”
– HEBE HATTON, HOMES & GARDENS (2025)
“Next came the stainless appliances, an oversized quartz island with wraparound seating, and a rustic butcher-block prep table created from reclaimed American black walnut. Because the couple have family in France, the prep table and sculptural pendants by Visual Comfort echo their love of Parisian cafés and flea markets..”
– SUSAN BRIERLY BUSH, NEW JERSEY MONTHLY (2025)
