My clients for this project were friends of ours when we had our
first babies {years ago!}.... we had been out of touch when Maria contacted
me via Facebook and asked if I knew of a good interior designer.
Of course, I suggested......me!
The house is an updated 1960's ranch with a lower walkout level. I would say
the updates lean towards a cottage look. The large 'great room' pictured
above was being used as a family gathering space but the awkward layout and
furniture from a previous house did not make for a space that the family
really loved to spend time in. Additionally, the clients wanted to add
a dining space in the layout.
As you can see the room provided me many challenges - the large set of french doors
centered in the room, the half wall that supports the stairs to the lower level and what you
can barely see in the pictures.....a REALLY unattractive fireplace, basically a painted
stucco'ed box.
The client's goals were simple - lighten and brighten. Like so many
homeowners, my clients were tired of the red and yellow color
scheme and wanted to update with a coastal {he's Hawaiian!}, contemporary
vibe. More importantly, they wanted a space that would be a
comfortable space to hang out with family and friends.
Here is the new and improved space!
We defined the living space with a soft area rug - perfect for kids to sit on the floor! While
the client initially thought a sectional would work well in the space, we opted for two sofa's
instead. Two sofa's provide more flexibility and believe it or not, often more seating! We
replaced the french door curtains with simple white panels hung almost to
the ceiling.
I designed built-in bookshelves and fireplace surround - providing a
great focal point for the living space and much needed storage
for the family's books and games!
The new room has two fabulous custom furniture pieces - a dining table
made from reclaimed wood and an industrial-inspired coffee
table made from metal pipe and reclaimed wood. Both pieces
were made for me by Tarte.
We used contemporary dining chairs - I love
the juxtaposition of the farm table with the
sleek chairs!
While this was a significant project - budget was a big consideration.
The chair pictured below is one the client's had {pictured in the
'before photos'}, we simply had a new slipcover made in an
updated fabric. The large round table between the
sofas is the client's Craigslist find!
I had a blast installing a family gallery wall
in the dining space.
The clients had meaningful pieces of art and objects that we
incorporated into the space. I feel strongly about making
family heirlooms or favorite art pieces work in a space - it
what makes your home.....YOUR home.
I was honored to help this family create a space they love! They trusted
me and ran with every recommendation I made - I could not have asked for more!
The renewed friendship was the icing on the cake!
Paint: BM Hazy Skies
Paint on Built-ins: BM White Dove
Sofas: Pottery Barn
Dining Chairs: West Elm
Dining Table/Coffee Table: Tarte
Pillows: Homegoods/custom
While I love, love, love working with local clients - I am considering
offering online consultations. If you are interested in letting
me help you design a room you love, please send me an
email jill.hinsondesigns@gmail.com.