1920s House Style Gets an Update

Let’s Refresh This 1920s House Style!

When our client relocated to Florida, she fell in love with a charming 1200-square-foot bungalow. However, the 1920s house’s style didn’t quite align with hers.

The two-bedroom, one-bath St. Petersburg craftsman needed an update before our art-collecting and antique-loving client could feel at home. Cue the Lisa Gilmore Design team, tasked with revamping the living room, dining room, study/den, and kitchen nook of her Historic Old Northeast home built in 1925.

Before and After: Transformed 1920s House Style

Older homes boast character, but they don't have to be stuck in the past. Witness how we revitalized this century-old gem.

photo: Living room Before

1920s HOUSE LIVING ROOM AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Art-Inspired Living Room

Lisa and our senior designer Nicole were inspired by the client’s bold and fun art collection. We played off the art’s bright colors by selecting this curved sofa in a custom hot-pink fabric. There is an underlying weave of orange in the fabric, so the sofa can appear to be a different color from different spots in the room. We also added pops of pink throughout the room and chose a crisp white for the walls that wouldn’t compete with the bright colors. 

1920s House Style Elevated with Reupholstered Dining Chairs

photo: Dining room Before

1920s HOUSE DINING ROOM AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

It’s hard to say whether the highlight of this room is the textured wallpaper on the ceiling or the stunning dining chairs. We breathed new life into the client’s existing dining chairs and had them reupholstered in a luscious, raspberry velvet fabric on one side and a cheerful blue wave pattern on the other. And, do you spy the antique hutch along the wall? That was an existing piece from the homeowner as well.

Work-from-Home Office Jewel Box

Working from home has become standard practice now. And that means we can say goodbye to cubicles and fluorescent lights and hello to creativity-inspiring design. Lisa’s goal from the start was to transform this space into a cozy jewel box for this work-from-home client. 

photo: Office Before

1920s HOME OFFICE AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

We transformed this space into a glamorous retreat inspired by Dorothy Draper. Picture emerald green drapery and an eye-catching built-in, both designed by Lisa. She also designed the rust-colored ottoman and had it made locally with vintage legs with claws and crystal spheres. Don’t miss the sparkle we added with a vintage French chandelier and window art, which is actually a framed vintage Hermes scarf.

Kitchen Nook Upgraded from 1920s House Style 

photo: Kitchen Nook Before

Does this space radiate happiness? The client had a dazzling chandelier in the dining room, and we knew it would play beautifully with the wallpaper and natural lighting of the nook. It creates the most beautiful iridescent glimmer at certain times of the day! 

The wallpaper is also a favorite! Its classic print with a modern take on its colorway makes the space bright, cheerful and the ideal place to have a morning coffee or great conversations with family and friends. We brought the existing built-in benches back to life with a little bit of paint,  a soft powder blue seat cushion, and fun pops of color in the pillows.

photo: Kitchen Nook After

FAQs

1. What is the style of a 1920s house?

Ah, the 1920s – a time of architectural exploration and experimentation! Imagine stepping into a time capsule where each house tells a unique story. From the cozy Craftsman cottages to the grandeur of Tudor Revival manors, 1920s homes boast an eclectic mix of styles. You'll find charming asymmetrical facades, whimsical low-pitched roofs with playful eaves, and an abundance of character that whispers tales of days gone by.

2. What were the features of a 1920s house?

Step into a 1920s house, and you're greeted by a sense of solidity and warmth. These homes were built to last, with sturdy construction featuring brick, stone, or wood siding that exudes timeless charm. Inside, it's a symphony of natural light streaming through multi-pane windows, revealing the intricate craftsmanship of hardwood floors and the cozy embrace of built-in cabinetry. It's the little details – the decorative brackets, the crown molding, the charming trim work – that make a 1920s house truly stand out.

3. What should I renovate first in an old house?

Ah, the joy of breathing new life into an old house! Start with the basics – address any structural issues and ensure essential systems like plumbing and electrical are up to par. Then, it's time to infuse a touch of modern comfort. Upgrade to energy-efficient insulation, windows, and doors to keep the coziness in and the chill out. Next, focus on the heart of the home – the kitchen and bathrooms – where a careful balance of functionality and style can work wonders. Don't forget to pay homage to the past by restoring original features and adding a splash of paint to freshen up the look. Finally, sprinkle in your own personality with thoughtful touches and curated decor, transforming your old house into a beautiful and functional home that's bursting with character and charm.

Ready to breathe new life into your 1920s house? Let Lisa Gilmore Design sprinkle some magic to honor your style and your home's rich history. And if you're itching for more vintage charm, dive into this delightful home renovation project!

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm offering busy professionals luxury design services. We have been named an Architectural Digest Leading Southwest Florida Designer and a Top 25 Design Florida Firm by Design + Decor. Lisa Gilmore Design has been featured in premier design publications such as Florida Design, Aspire Home, and Rue Magazine. We serve homeowners in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and worldwide.

Custom Rugs, Pillows and More: Creating Exclusive Interior Designs

Tampa Custom Rugs and Other Custom Pieces from Lisa Gilmore Design

Ever felt like your space needs that special touch? Well, that's our jam! While some designers stick to a signature, tried-and-tested style, we're all about making each project uniquely enchanting. From custom rugs to ottomans with personality, we're here to sprinkle a little magic and exclusivity into every home.

Luxury Interior Design Begins with Pieces Like Custom Rugs

What sets our designs apart? It's the unique pieces we weave into each space. Think custom rugs, built-ins straight out of your dreams, and banquettes that redefine cozy.

Custom Rugs

Who says art belongs only on walls? Our custom rugs beg to differ! Take a peek at these beauties from our collection:

Dive into the lush greens and blues of our leopard rug, perfectly paired with striking drapery.

Feel the vibrant energy of this stripes-and-dots rug above, dancing harmoniously with bold terrazzo floors.

And oh, that leopard rug next to the fiery orange chair? It's the epitome of fierce style! We also spy custom drapery designed by Lisa as well.

Custom Ottomans

Small but mighty, ottomans are our secret weapons for adding flair to any room. Here are three stunners we've conjured up:

Dive into the serene blue hues of our smoky ottomans, echoing the color block art above the sofa.

Let the vibrant ottomans in this entry welcome you into a world of elegance and charm.

And behold the rust-colored wonder with a special surprise of antique claw feet holding crystal balls, which adds a touch of warmth to a Dorothy Draper-inspired space.

Custom Built-Ins

When it comes to wowing guests, custom built-ins steal the show:

Feast your eyes on this gorgeous vanity– handmade, hand-scraped, and stained by our carpenter. He made that weathered look using a burning technique. 

Admire the adobe-style fireplace, the perfect blend of form and function.

Marvel at the TV cabinet, designed by Lisa and made by a local carpenter, which hides the TV when not in use.

And don't miss this bold bookcase, adding pops of teal to this stylish home office.

Custom Banquettes

What's the secret to creating dining spaces that dazzle? Banquettes, of course!

Join us in the breakfast nook, where a built-in banquette frames the perfect view.

Marvel at the seamless blend of banquette and cabinetry, creating a space that feels like a warm hug.

How smart is this kitchen nook and curved banquette that makes the best use of the available space?!

Behold the navy-tufted beauty, the crowning jewel of a coastal vacation home.

It’s hard to choose what we love most about this space– the teal banquette paired with the soft happy blue wood base, the basket-weave pendant light, or the handmade cement tile floors.

Custom Pillows

We don't do boring pillows here. Each one is a work of art:

Splash some color with our vibrant accent pillows, adding life to any corner.

Let our sofa pillows tie the sofa, drapery, and ottomans together with effortless grace.

And in the primary bedroom, let these striking pillows perfectly complement the geometric wallpaper.

Bonus! Custom Drapery and Lighting

And why stop at rugs and pillows? Our custom drapery and lighting are the cherry on top:

Feast your eyes on the whimsical banana leaf chandelier above, casting a magical glow over any space.

And our custom drapery selections like these add a touch of elegance to your windows.

FAQs: Answers to Your Burning Custom Rug and Drapery Questions

1. Can you get rugs cut to size?

Absolutely! We totally get it – sometimes your space is just too unique for standard rug sizes. No worries though, getting your rug customized to fit like a glove is totally doable. Just head to a rug or carpet binder, and they can work their magic to bind the edges and make it fit your space perfectly. Whether you're decking out a cozy nook or a sprawling living room, customizing your rug ensures it's as unique as your style!

2. What type of custom rug holds up best?

When it comes to durability, wool rugs are like the superheroes of the rug world. They're naturally tough cookies, standing up to all sorts of wear and tear with ease. Plus, they're practically stain-resistant, making them perfect for those high-traffic areas where spills are bound to happen. And let's not forget – wool rugs are the epitome of luxury and timelessness, guaranteeing your custom creation stays stylish for years to come.

3. How much does it cost to have custom drapes made?

Ah, the million-dollar question – or maybe just a few hundred, depending on your fabric choice! The cost of custom drapes can vary based on factors like fabric, size, and design intricacy. While they might be a tad pricier than your off-the-shelf options, custom drapes are like the haute couture of window treatments – impeccably crafted to fit your space like a glove and elevate your style game. Trust us, the investment is totally worth it for that personalized touch and superior quality that's uniquely you. 

With made-to-order pieces, artisan craftsmanship, and a sprinkle of fairy dust, Lisa Gilmore Design turns houses into homes straight out of a storybook.

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Based in Tampa Bay, Florida, Lisa Gilmore Design is a full-service interior design firm that provides luxury design services to busy professionals. We create one-of-a-kind spaces for homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and worldwide.

Transforming a Lackluster St. Petersburg Condo into a Dream Florida Beach House

Coastal Florida Beach Condo in St. Petersburg 

Hey there! Ever bought a place that just didn’t vibe with your style? Yeah, been there. Our clients snagged a Florida beach house in Snell Isle, but it was, well, not their vibe at all. Enter Lisa Gilmore Design to the rescue!

Before and After: Lisa Gilmore Designed-Florida Beach House

Picture this: a retired couple dreaming of a beach escape, but the condo they bought didn’t match their coastal dreams. They craved an elevated space with blues that didn’t scream "seashells."

Let’s dive into the makeover journey!

Neutral Den Becomes Tropical Blue Retreat

The den? A jack-of-all-trades but master of none. We waved our magic wands (well, paintbrushes) to transform it into a tropical oasis. The vintage chest that we had handpainted locally served as an inspiration and focal point for this room. Don’t miss the leopard print sofas and chandeliers that make you go "Wow!"

DEN BEFORE

DEN AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN FLORIDA

DEN AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN

KITCHEN BEFORE

Lackluster Kitchen to Colorful Heart of the Home

The kitchen was meh, but we wanted it to be the heart of the home. But Lisa Gilmore Design doesn’t do standard or lackluster. We swapped the original tile for cracked glass tile, added a striking light fixture, and replaced the countertops with natural quartzite stone. And our favorite part– the Monet-inspired counter stools. Now, it's a vibrant spot for culinary adventures! 

KITCHEN AFTER - LISA GILMORE INTERIOR DESIGN FL

Bland Dining Room Becomes Traditional Florida Beach House Delight

Who wants a snooze-fest dining room? Not us! Lisa jazzed it up by custom designing this luxe banquette and having it locally made for the space. We paired the banquette with chic sconces and a dining set for pure elegance.

(If you want to see a completely different vibe in the neighborhood, check out this dining space we also designed in Snell Isle.)

DINING ROOM AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN ST PETERSBURG

DINING ROOM BEFORE

Beach Condo Living Room Spotlights View

Let’s talk views! We kept the spotlight on that breathtaking scenery while adding depth and structure to the living room. This beautiful sofa, statement drapery, and water lily art steal the show!

LIVING ROOM BEFORE

LIVING ROOM AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN

LIVING ROOM AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN TAMPA

Don’t miss the custom elements that Lisa designed and had made locally, including the pillows, ottoman and built-in. What a dream!

LIVING ROOM DETAILS | LISA GILMORE DESIGN

FABRIC SELECTION | LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Primary Bedroom Becomes Coastal Sanctuary

Blank canvas? Not anymore! We splashed shades of blue and green and turned it into a coastal haven fit for royalty. The luxe bed, eye-catching drapery, and colorful chandelier are certainly standout pieces. And the leopard rug from our own Lisa Gilmore Design collection really makes a splash!

PRIMARY BEDROOM BEFORE

PRIMARY BEDROOM | INTERIOR DESIGN LISA GILMORE

PRIMARY BEDROOM AFTER | LISA GILMORE DESIGN

A Florida Beach House Guest Room Fit for a King or Queen

The guest room needed some love. We added a plush royal blue bed, bold drapery in a traditional pattern, and nightstands for an overall effect that whispers, "Relax and stay a while." It’s calming and invigorating all at the same time.

Check out this post to see 4 things every guest room should include.

photo Guest Room Before

FAQs

1. What style of home is a Florida beach house?

When it comes to Florida beach houses, you’ve got options! Think traditional coastal vibes, contemporary twists, Mediterranean flair, or cozy bungalow feels. Fun fact: St. Petersburg’s style takes inspo from Perry Snell’s 1920s creations, featuring lush gardens and those iconic red-tiled roofs.

2. What should a luxury Florida beach house have?

Get ready for some beachside bliss! A luxury Florida beach house should be equipped with all the goodies to make your seaside stay unforgettable. Think beach access, outdoor showers for sandy toes, plush beds and linens for dreamy nights, a stocked kitchen for culinary adventures, plus outdoor toys like kayaks and paddleboards for fun in the sun. Oh, and don’t forget the outdoor bar, hot tub, and smart home tech for that extra touch of luxury!

3. What is the best color for a traditional Florida beach house?

For a traditional Florida beach house vibe, think serene shades of blue and green that echo the ocean’s hues. You can’t go wrong with classic whites, creams, or soft beiges either. Don't feel limited with this palette; you can also be inspired by the cotton candy skies and do warmer pink and corals. This coastal condo project is a great example of that.

This before-and-after traditional Florida beach house transformation was pure magic. We mixed textures and patterns to create a space that feels like a posh hotel with a beachy twist. Now it’s your turn to dive in and create a home that reflects your style! 

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Based in Tampa Bay, Lisa Gilmore Design is an interior design firm that provides luxury design services to busy professionals. As a full-service design firm, we create original spaces through the use of artisan-crafted pieces, antique elements, and custom designs. Lisa Gilmore Design serves clients in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, and South Tampa.

5 Interior Design Condo Projects in Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Interior-Designed Condos You Can’t Miss!

Ever heard of that common myth swirling around the interior design world about condos? You know, the one that claims condos are nothing more than "generic, white boxes" that'll cramp your style?

So. not. true. We’re here to debunk that misconception and reveal the enchanting possibilities that condos hold.

What some might see as a blank canvas, we see as a playground for our creative whimsy.

5 “Out-of-the-Box” Lisa Gilmore Designed Condos

To give you a glimpse of what an experienced full-service interior design firm can do with a new condo, let’s dive into five projects we have designed in the Tampa Bay area.

Beachfront Florida Condo: A Modern and Artsy Paradise

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Are you head over heels for artsy modern patterns, teals, and maybe some pops of blush?? If so, this three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath condo in sunny Tierra Verde is your dream come true! 

We didn't just stop at furnishing this gem; we also handpicked the snazziest hard surfaces for it.

Since it's a waterside vacation retreat, we went wild with indoor/outdoor furnishings! The result? A condo that's functional and filled with color, pattern, and texture. 

And if you're itching for a closer look at the Caribbean-inspired dining space, we've got a whole blog post dedicated to it.

Modern, Chic Condo with Traditional Undertones

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This three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo with a den was a blank canvas for our team’s wildest design dreams. Our design included fully furnishing this space and renovating the kitchen and powder room.

Custom goodies are sprinkled everywhere, from fancy millwork to a swanky marble backsplash in the kitchen and even a tufted raspberry ottoman to coordinate with the lacquered raspberry walls and millwork in the study. 

But here's the twist – it's not all new stuff! We jazzed up the home with original abstract art, lovingly painted by the client's talented dad. 

And oh, the guest bedroom – check out the WOW wallpaper that brings it to life!

Eclectic Condo with Collector’s Flair: A Personalized Oasis

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When it comes to design, personal touches are pure magic. In this two-bedroom, two-bath condo, our client brought along a treasure trove of antique area rugs, arts and crafts, and art deco wonders. 

We waved our design wands and turned the entire space into a cozy haven that felt just like home. Our mission? Furnishing it all, and transforming the guest room into a quirky office and the dining area into a snazzy music lounge. Voilà!

Downtown St. Pete Luxury Condo: A Burst of Bold Brilliance

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If your heart races for bold, vibrant colors, prepare to be dazzled! The design journey for this two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath condo was sparked by three captivating paintings sent to us by the owners. 

The Lisa Gilmore Design team went all out – from the floor to the ceiling, and everything in between! Lighting, paint, wallpaper, tile, furnishings – you name it, we nailed it. There's even custom elements like ottomans in the living room and den, a swanky wine lounge area rug, and a sleek office desk that's out of this world. 

Dive deeper into the office and the OTTRA-designed desk in this blog post. 

Shades of Serenity: Traditional Coastal Haven in St. Petersburg

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If you're enchanted by the allure of coastal living but prefer a touch of sophistication, prepare to be captivated by this two-bedroom, two-bath condo nestled in the charming Snell Isle neighborhood.

Designing custom pieces for this abode was an absolute joy. From the cozy dining room banquette to the welcoming entry table, every detail was tailor-made with love. And let's not forget the delightful accents in the guest bedroom – plush pillows, a cozy ottoman, and charming built-in shelving– all meticulously designed to evoke a sense of coastal comfort.

Step into the den, where a dazzling chandelier from Ro Sham Beaux casts a spell of glamour, complemented by a vintage chest lovingly hand-painted by local artisans.

For those who adore the calming hues of the ocean, this condo is a true sanctuary, where every shade of blue whispers tales of serenity and seaside dreams come true. 

FAQs

1. How much does an interior designer cost in Tampa Bay?

Interior design professionals come in all shapes and sizes, from decorators to full-service design gurus. If you're eyeing a full-service interior design team in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, design fees on average range from $200-$300 per hour, which doesn’t include furniture or decor.

2. How do I find an interior designer for my St. Petersburg condo?

Finding the perfect designer is like discovering a rare treasure! Begin by identifying your style, how involved you want to be, and your budget. Your budget and available time will help you find the right match. Plus, nailing down your style and color palette is like sprinkling fairy dust – it guides you to the perfect designer!

3. What should luxury interior condo design include?

Luxury condo design isn't your run-of-the-mill furniture store affair. It's about crafting custom pieces, weaving colors, textures, and patterns like a wizard, and creating cozy nooks that spark conversation and enchantment in every room.

Don't let condo design myths dampen your spirits! These five homes are proof that with a dash of imagination, a condo's "boxy" structure is the perfect canvas for an inventive Tampa Bay interior designer to create an unforgettable space that exceeds your wildest expectations.

To get more tips, see our projects, and find ideas for adding liveable glamour to your home, follow me on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter.

Lisa Gilmore Design is an interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida, providing luxury design services for busy professionals. We are a full-service firm that specializes in layering colors, textures, and patterns to create custom, luxury spaces. Lisa Gilmore Design serves homeowners in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and worldwide.