Finally a Forever Home
After years of living in different countries for a career, this family of six came back home to Westchester and bought a newly renovated Tudor. Their mandate: “No more temporary furniture!” They wanted furniture and fabrics specifically chosen for this home, where they will live for a long, long time!
It’s a busy household: four children, the youngest a toddler and the eldest prepping for college, and a rambunctious puppy. Still lots of travel, but finally a chance to put down roots.
The couple had brought artwork from their travels to their new home as well as some furniture, but much of it temporary! Some of the choices made by the previous owner they liked. But some were a challenge. The biggest being the foyer. A two-story entry that was commanding, confronting and sadly not a fit. The challenge: to pull it all together to make a cohesive statement.
With a dramatic mural wall paper 18 feet high and a tall panel of Venetian plaster, the foyer, initially a problem, became a show-stopping space. The entry sets a whimsical tone. It anchors the first floor, making the floorpan feel structured and elegant, like many of the subtle geometric patterns employed throughout the three main rooms.
“We need surfaces and storage,” they also said. We responded, “You need furniture, window treatments, lighting, rugs, sofas, chairs and a dining room table!” Family dinners are important; they wanted to be able to seat 12. With a hefty, beautiful, custom table that expands from round to oval, mission accomplished!
The aesthetic was not easily articulated. Eventually, we found that we needed to provide organic, earthy for her and tailored for him. The existing palette of navy blue and gray were a starting point they both liked, high contrast in the dining room, low color contrast for the living room. From family dinners to holiday festivities the dining room is now enjoyed every day. The living room and sunroom have been transformed into a soothing space to retire to at the end of the day to read, play games, do jigsaw puzzles and sit in front of the fire. The rooms now reflect the style and life of the family.
