From Tired Traditional…to Classic Meets Contemporary

Wanting to create a brand-new look/energy/update in your home can be SO OVERWHELMING.

>> Where to START?

>> How much chaos can I handle?

>> Will we have to tear EVERYTHING out and begin again?

>> I’m craving an update…something less traditional but not hard-edged contemporary. I’m frustrated because I don’t know how to streamline or mix items for a new look.

Where to begin?

These questions are music to my ears! I’ve learned over the years that transformation doesn’t always require major renovation.

That was the case with this home.

No walls were moved. No windows were removed. No exterior work was done. After, we established those key things…we were on our way. 

The Color. The dreary brown-ish walls were turned into a soothing “cream”.

The Stairs. The biggest transformation in creating a fusion between classic and contemporary….was with the removal of the existing “busy” traditional wooden stair railings…replaced with tempered glass panels. Sleek metal handrails replaced the traditional ones. Then the stairs were painted the same color as the walls. Notice how much the existing floors and steps now became an important asset, when they were just “there” before!

The Fireplace. The original traditional wood mantle was replaced with a simple stone travertine surround. A mirror was installed above the mantle, going to the ceiling. The mirror reflected the wall of windows directly across the room…. looking out onto a pool. Now the pool was “brought inside” for heightened drama. Then, a large, antique, Asian decorative mirror was hung on top of the existing wall mirror. 

The Furnishings.  Four cushy comfortable occasional chairs were placed in a conversational grouping in front of the fireplace. A two-tiered oval glass coffee table was placed between the four chairs.

Art & Accessories. The art and accessories were a blend of traditional, antique, and contemporary items. The mixture created “interest” throughout the room.

The Result.  This became a totally transformative renewal for the homeowner. It did not require the usual massive tear out and start completely over to achieve the desired “Refresh-my-home-with-a completely-different” look that the homeowner had been dreaming of for years.

Organization and collaboration between the contractor and myself made this project come together on time and on budget in a matter of a few months.

We all actually had F U N.