Photo credit: www.architecturaldigest.com
From Rock Tours to Renovation: Duff McKagan’s Home Makeover Journey
Undergoing a home renovation is a challenge for anyone, but for Duff McKagan, the bassist of the iconic band Guns N’ Roses, the stakes were even higher. While touring around the globe with one of the most legendary rock bands, he and his supermodel wife, Susan Holmes-McKagan, decided to embark on an extensive renovation of their cherished Seattle residence, a 1927 English Tudor situated on the shores of Lake Washington. Their optimism allowed them to see this major project as a positive adventure, rather than a daunting task.
The couple, who exchanged vows in their home’s backyard 25 years ago, were not passive consumers of design ideas; they actively engaged in the process during their years on tour. Their travels became a form of real-life research, as they drew inspiration from various locations. “We’d take pictures, like, ‘Check this out, we can do this at our house,’” McKagan recalls, highlighting the creative process that took place even as they were away from home. Meanwhile, Holmes-McKagan noted how certain spaces left lasting impressions, such as the bar at the Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel and the natural light found in the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington DC, both of which had a direct influence on elements of their renovation.
The transformation of their home wasn’t merely aesthetic. Under the guidance of architect Todd James Bertellotti from ObjectSpace and designer Paul Moon Design, substantial architectural changes were initiated. McKagan emphasizes Susan’s foresight in wanting to open up the originally cramped rooms typical of the 1920s architecture, striving for an inviting atmosphere filled with vintage charm. However, a more pressing matter spurred the renovations: changing climate conditions. As McKagan states, “It gets hot in the Northwest now, so it was, like, ‘We gotta get AC.’ And Susan says, ‘We gotta get a pool!’ And it just went bananas.”
This renovation experience was both exciting and enriching for the couple, with each design choice not only catering to their personal tastes but also imbued with cherished memories from their travels. As they made decisions about the aesthetics and functionality of their home, they were crafting a space that reflects their journey together, blending artistic inspiration with practical needs.
An Influential Design Process
The aesthetic vision for the McKagan home reflects a careful integration of contemporary and traditional elements. The home, described by Line Architecture founder Nicolò Bini as a “little castle” with a fortress-like quality, features a front garden designed to enhance its dramatic presence. The garden combines lush floral arrangements with unique touches, such as whimsical topiary sheep, a nod to the British heritage of the residence.
This blend of high-end design and personal flair embodies the McKagans’ approach to home renovation. It’s an illustration of how professional guidance and personal experiences can converge to create a distinct living space, one that captures the essence of both their characters and their life together.
As Duff McKagan balances a bustling touring schedule with the responsibilities of home renovation, their story serves as a reminder of the rewarding creative possibilities that lie in combining personal history and design innovation. With dedicated efforts and a touch of adventure, the couple looks forward to enjoying their renewed home while continuing to explore the world through their music.
Discover the design inspirations from their home here
Source
www.architecturaldigest.com