While my style lends itself to being modern, I love the idea of working with a client who has a more traditional aesthetic. This gives me a chance to explore other styles as well as add modern elements to an otherwise traditional palette. While working with Mary on her dining room, living room, office, lounge and powder room she determined it was time for a big change from the yards of floral, plaid and patterned wall paper all with deep reds, cornflower blues and pale yellows. The goal was to make the house more sell-able (she and her husband are downsizing), add some classic pieces she can take with her to a new home and transition to a neutral, lighter palette while still keeping a traditional aesthetic. Take a look at the inspirational images above to see the starting point.
For the Dining Room, there are a handful of existing pieces to work with; a very large brushed brass dining room chandelier, a tall cherry corner hutch and a cherry buffet. To balance these 3 very traditional pieces we found a simple Mission style table in cherry (this table seats 12 when it’s fully extended – can you imagine the dinner parties!), comfy inexpensive upholstered chairs with dark legs that we are adding brass nail heads to the base and a cow hide rug. To stay in the classic realm I added two brass wall sconces to flank a large wall mirror (please ignore the dust) with a pineapple detail to go above the buffet. In colonial times pineapples signify hospitality. And that’s exactly the feeling we are going for. A place where everyone can sit back and enjoy themselves, for a while. This is just the beginning, so check back in the coming weeks to see what’s going on with the other spaces and all the details and accessories.
[Images above are clockwise from top left: Bar cart (via Design Sponge bar cart guide); Brass Wall Sconce; Antique Pineapple Mirror; West Elm Dining Chairs; Mission Style Butterfly draw top Table; Cowhide Rug.]
Above is Mary’s Color Palette. All colors are Sherwin Williams Harmony Interior latex (meaning no nasty, toxic paint smells). For the Dining Room we are using the light blue (2nd from left) as the main wall paint and the warm gray (3rd from left) for the wainscot. All the trim will be white. The other colors, you ask? I’m saving them for a different post.
If you are looking for an update, trying to incorporate pieces you can have forever, need tips on what style works best for your tastes or you just don’t know where to begin, I would love to help out. Whether it’s a room for your new baby or an entire house remodel, I’m up for the challenge and am more than happy to work with you to find something you love and also fits your budget.
[Inspirational Photos: Blue Dining Room - Elle Decor; Taupe lounge - Design Sponge Sneak Peek]
Me likely, when can I move in?