Margaret Josephs, an accomplished American fashion designer, entrepreneur, and television personality, has captivated audiences with her vibrant persona on the hit Bravo reality TV series, The Real Housewives of New Jersey.
Behind the scenes, she resides in a magnificent Englewood abode that is a testament to her exquisite taste and unwavering dedication to creating a luxurious lifestyle.
In New Jersey, her house has undergone an extensive transformation through a years-long renovation and redecoration process. The result is a breathtaking masterpiece that seamlessly blends classic Tudor-style architecture with contemporary elements, emanating a unique and captivating ambiance.
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Margaret Josephs called her house Pigtail Palace-Mustache Manor before renovations
Before undergoing its remarkable transformation, Josephs affectionately referred to her house as Pigtail Palace-Mustache Manor.
Margaret Josephs’s kitchen before the renovations (Source: Bravo TV)
This playful and whimsical name reflected her distinctive sense of humor. It paid homage to her iconic signature hairstyle, characterized by naughty pigtails, and her husband Joe Benigno’s famous mustache.
In a video tour of her pre-renovation abode, she showcased her bold and fearless taste in home decor. A lime green couch boldly coexisted with a hide-style zebra rug, epitomizing her penchant for unconventional pairings. She proudly proclaimed her affinity for skulls and fur pieces, adding edginess to the overall aesthetic.
As the grand spiral staircase took center stage, it was impossible to miss the taxidermied bear perched atop it. And, to further showcase her unapologetic personality, she pointed out a gold stripper pole, playfully stating that it supported the stairs themselves.
During the pre-renovation phase, she began shaping her vision for the house. While walking through the under-construction living room, she humorously referred to it as her “ballroom” since she had a penchant for hosting lively parties.
Margaret Josephs’ began her mansion renovations in 2018
Embarking on renovating her mansion in 2018, Josephs and her husband entered a laborious and time-consuming process that tested their patience.
Margaret Josephs started her house renovation with the kitchen, including other parts (Source: Margaret Josephs)
She made it clear early on that the undertaking was far from complete, humorously remarking that she was still “living in [her] closet” while the renovations were underway.
The year 2020 rolled around, and they found themselves still deeply entrenched in the makeover project. Documenting the progress on her Instagram Story in September 2020, she shared an image of a worker carefully applying dark marble to a wall. Accompanying the photo, she wrote, “Things are happening,” signaling that the wheels were turning, albeit slowly.
In season 10 of the Bravo TV show, she offered an update on the mansion’s status, indicating that the pace was finally picking up. She excitedly announced that the house was underway, with workers present and her husband granting access to other contractors.
However, as she candidly joked, much work remained, particularly in the bedroom and bathroom areas. The magnitude of the renovation project was not lost on her, and she lightheartedly quipped that she was destined to “die in this house,” highlighting the extensive nature of the process.
She playfully retorted when asked if the work was nearly finished, urging caution against exaggeration. Yet, despite the trials along the way, she remained steadfast in her commitment to transforming her mansion into a true masterpiece.
Here’s what Margaret Josephs has done with the house so far
Here’s a breakdown of what Josephs has done with her house. The kitchen has dramatically transformed, showcasing her bold and eclectic style.
Margaret Josephs in her newly renovated outdoor kitchen (Source: Margaret Josephs)
She has embraced rich colors and patterns, deviating from the norm to create a unique space. Her decision to incorporate wallpaper with a busy theme might seem unconventional, but it works harmoniously, resulting in a soothing ambiance.
The kitchen features sleek and modern JennAir Noir appliances, including a custom-made refrigerator that seamlessly blends into the cabinetry, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Her focus on indoor-outdoor living is evident in her luxurious outdoor entertaining area. She wanted to bring the indoors outside, creating a space that resembles a living room and offers comfort to guests. The outdoor kitchen, strategically located adjacent to the dining room and indoor kitchen, encourages people to enjoy the fresh air while feeling connected to the main living areas.
Margaret Josephs loves what she has done with her renovated ballroom (Source: Margaret Josephs)
The uniquely elegant ballroom holds a special place in her heart, as it was a crucial factor in her decision to purchase the house. While infusing the space with new and modern touches, she and her husband were committed to preserving many of the home’s original elements.
Their favorite features include a bar area and a large teal sofa that she finds perfect for lounging and watching TV. The room also boasts a custom mural, hand-drawn by Joe, along with meticulously designed light covers that seamlessly match the wallpaper.
Her home office perfectly aligns with her vibrant personality. Adorned with bright pink banana leaf wallpaper, the office exudes a tropical paradise vibe. The space has velvet office chairs, a bar cart with rose-colored glasses and drinks, and a custom Barbie wreath that adds a touch of whimsy and personalization.
In addition to these remarkable renovations, she expanded her property in 2022 by adding an in-ground pool to her backyard. This new addition further enhances the luxury and enjoyment of her home, exemplifying her affinity for collections and her commitment to creating a great living space.
