After 18 years in a traditionally appointed home, our client was now an empty nester and was ready for a modern makeover. The original house and furnishings had seen years of its warm, country French aesthetic help them create a comfortable nest to raise their three children. With the children having moved out, it was time to reimagine the home in a more streamlined, modern way.
The largest challenge of this project was the short time span that it was completed in. The entire project from start to finish was completed in seven months. The fact that the floor systems are all constructed of poured concrete, posed a challenge in installing the new mechanical and electrical rough-ins for the new layout. However, we were able to get our clients moved back into their home with minimum impact and time away. The kitchen was completely redesigned and boasts a custom Rift White Oak specifically designed and crafted with a unique layered finishing process to provide a warm yet modern feel. Certain floors were completely updated with European White Oak flooring while existing reclaimed parquet floors were carefully restored to showcase their original beauty while retaining the history and patina developed over more than a century.
Specialty wall finishes were also a large undertaking throughout the home and both faux limestone and Venetian Plaster were used to create this beautiful texture. Another item that created an air of sophistication in the home was all of the stone elements that were sourced specifically for this project. Castille Grey Limestone floor tile from Romania, a floating vanity sink carved from a single block of Belgium Bluestone, Pyrolave Volcanic Lava island tops, and Statuary Marble counters and trim elements. Handcrafted fixtures and decorative furnishings were used throughout the home, including the specialty antique mirrors that we had handcrafted in England to create a dramatic backdrop at the breakfast room bar. We also worked with a lighting team to brighten the house throughout. In collaboration with Renfro Lighting Design out of New York, we incorporated customized mud-in recess fixtures, lighted closet rods, integrated cabinet lighting, and custom art lights. While not as visible, but just as important, we outfitted this home with a fully customized home automation and control system to allow for seamless use of lighting, audio, video, security, and heating and cooling systems.
We were able to realize both the client’s and interior designer’s vision and keep the beautiful bones intact while giving the home a fresh feel. We elevated this tired home and allowed it to reach its true potential as only a classic beauty can.
Photographer: Richard Powers
Interior Designer: Patrick Sutton
Lighting Designer: Renfro Design Group
Stone: Marmi Stone
Home Automation/Controls/AV/Security: Electronic Home Environments
Venetian Plaster and Specialty Finishes: Kelly Walker & ArtStar Baltimore
Kitchen Cabinetry, breakfast room bar and other furniture elements: Duncan Cabinetry
Original Architect (not involved in this renovation): Harpole Architects
