A few weeks ago, I shared a glimpse into our thought-process behind a great-room design we recently completed. If you missed it, you can read the full, work-in-progress post here.
Our clients, who will be empty-nesters before long, wanted a sophisticated space for relaxing and entertaining. They are thrilled with our interpretation of their vision:
It’s a far cry from where we started! Take a look at the same space (from a slightly different angle) before the transformation:
Here’s another before perspective:
As you can see, a structural column divides the great room, making space-planning a bit of a challenge. We solved the dilemma by creating distinct seating areas on either side of it, as well as in the window alcove. To refresh your memory, here’s a second look at our plan for the space.
In the larger section, the placement of the Shonnard sofa and a console table in front of the column visually anchors the architectural feature, giving it a purpose in the space.
Opposite, a Colefax love-seat and Samuel wing chair, both by Hickory Chair, round out the main seating area. A Lee Jofa fabric covers the love-seat and ottoman, while a Pindler velvet graces the chair. The Stickley coffee table was existing.
A group of paintings, sourced through Broadway Gallery in Alexandria, by local artist Christine Lashley, receives pride of place above the love-seat.
Rugs help to define each of the distinct seating areas — so important in a space as large as this one. Here, a custom, hand-knotted rug from Lee Jofa grounds the main grouping.
Employing two Albert chairs from the Albert Sack collection by Hickory Chair and a sisal rug, we crafted a cozy vignette in the window bay. A sassy stripe from Kravet‘s Echo Design Collection gives the chairs an extra dose of personality.
A Phillip Jeffries grasscloth creates a textural feature wall. Panels, made up in an embroidered linen from Kravet, frame the window nook. To highlight the room’s architectural details, we painted the ceiling sky blue and the coffers crisp white.
On the other side of the room, a pair of chairs offer a strategic vantage point for enjoying a fire or the leafy view beyond the French doors.
The Beaufort chair from Hickory Chair, with a British Colonial feel, is just the right scale and doesn’t overwhelm this smaller section of the divided room. A back pillow, in a whimsical Kravet print, contrasts with a strie-velvet seat cushion.
Nearby sits a pretty-and-practical chest of drawers from Sherrill Furniture.
I am obsessed with this stunning Jamie Young mirror, which adds the perfect finishing touch. In the shot above, you can also see the edge of the room’s third rug, which rests under the two Beaufort chairs. This sisal matches the one in the window alcove.
In a voluminous great room — especially one with architectural features that demanded their due — starting with a solid layout was the key to success. A good design has to check all the functional boxes first! Now the room addresses the evolving needs of the homeowners and comfortably accommodates a couple or a small crowd. And it’s sophisticated style speaks to the approaching empty nest. This great room is ready for its next chapter.
High Point Market, Spring 2018: Favorite Finds
