Wanting a comfortable and elegant retreat, these empty nesters asked for a rich warm color palette with a French country design. By combining timeless traditional pieces with curved French inspired looks we were able to achieve exactly what the client was looking for. Upon walking in the front door, the floorplan is open so everything needed to be considered when making our selections.
The main living area needed careful planning due to its difficult layout. Our clients like to have family gatherings and needed to be able to accommodate seating for a larger number of people, while still be comfortable when it was just the two of them. We designed a custom built in around the fireplace in rich warm wood tones and put in window seats under each window. Inside the window seats were hidden storage areas for the TV components and other miscellaneous items. A large sectional sofa was used in the corner of the room and custom built to fit the size and scale of the space. The curved back of the sectional made it a statement piece as well as a functional one. An accent chair in a coordinating leopard print fabric was also added for additional seating and added a fun flair.
For the dining room, we brought the richness of the wood from the fireplace built in, into wood paneling on the posts and columns leading into the space. We also added an upper shelf with custom iron and wood railing to a wall above this area to add a unique touch. A delicate chandelier sits over the dining table that features cabriole legs and a two tone finish. A side board sits along the wall and features a distressed cream finish that coordinates with the table and highlights the toile fabric on the dining chairs. Rich window treatments frame the windows that look out onto a beautiful view of the city, and a wallpaper accent wall makes the perfect backdrop for the beautiful accessories.
Moving into the kitchen, we used a warm cream color for the cabinetry and added intricate mouldings and painted accents to keep with the French country style. We expanded the countertop and created a cozy eating area. Creating a custom shape gave the kitchen interest and function. The color and finish choices make this kitchen feel larger and highlight the design in the other areas of the home.
Next to the kitchen is the staircase. Bringing in the rich warm wood finish for the skirting and handrail tied it in with the other custom cabinetry and adding custom designed iron made this a statement. Soft scrolled details work its way up the staircase, adding movement and texture. Patterned carpeting was put on the staircase to coordinate with the carpet in the family room area. Large plank wood flooring was used in the kitchen and dining areas for function and beauty. The paint color palatte used in these areas were a great compliment to the furnishings and fabrics.
Also off the dining room was a small hallway leading to the master bedroom and powder room. These rooms were also considered in the overall design plan. The powder room was given a rich pop of color and interest with intricately designed wallpaper and beautifully finished sink chest. A shaped mirror hung over the sink and features gold highlights and carved details. It isn’t a place where one spends a lot of time but it is sure to make an impression! The master bedroom features a shaped upholstered headboard with a rich wood carved border. The bombe chest nightstands add a French flair and the custom built in adds the rich warmth of the wood from the family room as well as ample storage. Working drapery panels frame the doors that lead out into the yard and highlight the beautiful view. When needed the curtains are closed with hotel room darkness for mornings when the client just wants to sleep in. Tone on tone bedding plays up the different textures in the fabrics and adds soft sophistication.
After their home was complete the client was so happy with the end result. It was truly what they were looking for both in function and feel. They were so glad that they called us and were so happy to refer us to others.