You never get a second chance to make a first impression, so the entry to your home has to speak to your style, your personality and welcome your guests. These clients had a space with great bones but a frumpy message. They asked me to open it up and let in the natural light in a contemporary language. I removed multiple columns, reshaped the 2nd story landing and replaced the traditional baulsters/handrail with a sleek silver and black combination. The focal point became a late 1890’s rigging timber which was left unfinished (Mother Nature can do a wonderful job if given 110 years) that allowed several load bearing walls to be removed. A Paris flea market hand-carved sculpture was paired with an oversized metal and crystal chandelier to add interest and scale. The clients requested a gallery space to display a rotating and expanding collection of family photos. I added distressed iron tables with unfinished travertine tops and antique pharmacy lamps, to offset the mirrored picture frames. The tufted settee and zebra patterned rug provide a relaxing space to recall great family experiences. The clients also requested a formal dining room with an intimate, sophisticated feel. I framed an oversized window with custom satin fabric and selected a marbled mural wallpaper to add drama and contrast. The table pedestals were commissioned in polished stainless steel to support a boat shape glass top. The floor is recycled leather planks in a rich chocolate brown, and the chandelier is an alternating polished/satin stainless steel in a flame pattern. The photograph of a London skyline is printed on metal in a triptych format. The dining room has programmable lighting, stealth speakers and an optical fireplace which set the mood and compliment the conversation. The great room (images shown below) continues the balance of organic with contemporary. The wide plank floor in a distressed grey herringbone pattern provides a smooth transition to gather with family and friends. The floor to ceiling custom curtains add drama and scale to the room while framing the gorgeous outdoor view. Leather and Tibetan wool seating contrasts the polished library scale on an acrylic coffee table. The iconic Bocci light illuminates it all. When the sun sets the metal art panels come to life and make the room dance in color and sparkle. The entry to the house says “Welcome” while the great room says “Stay awhile”