This recently married mid-life couple was ready to start a new chapter of their lives in the Hidden Creek neighborhood of McKinney, Texas.  Having recently relocated from Duluth, Minnesota, the couple missed the cozy, small spaces full of character and charm to which they were accustomed.  As Texas homes are known for overwhelming 2 story foyers and living rooms, it can be a challenge to create an intimate feel from broad, bare, and boringly textured drywall painted in relocation-gray;  a challenge we welcome regularly with open arms and without failing to exceed expectations.

Allison’s pinterest board was loaded with dreamy, cottage like scapes. Quaint, unpretentious, and moody.  Our goal was to achieve a new and novel traditional style without the grandeur of her Mother’s old taste.  She wanted to feel movement, depth, and connectedness to her stunning wooded outdoor views and shed the rustic farmhouse look reflecting the previous home owners.    

The Kitchen

Keeping in mind the couple's passion for food, wine, woods, and opera, our first selection was an elegant and moody Richmond Wallpaper by Cowtan & Tan, a daring choice considering the large pattern repeat of endless forests and pond scenes.  Many designers would render this an impractical choice, but we could see it winding around the cabinetry and windows with an unconventional novelty that smaller scale patterns would not have achieved.  

As light only swept into one side of the kitchen, we chose the illuminating, yet deep Sherwin Williams Portsmouth blue for the cabinetry with complimenting colors of Foothills and Taupe Tone on the island and trim.  A perfectly faux finished custom vent hood draws the eye to a crowning focal point while introducing a metallic copper texture with traces of champagne to perpetuate the ambiance of shimmering shades of gold in the collection of new hardware, faucetry, and bespoke lighting.  

With visions of game nights and meals in a casual but elegant atmosphere, a combination of bar and table seating for 10 was necessary to accommodate their large blended family.  The casually woven bar stools and leaved walnut table, resting on an interesting octagon rug, offered the flexibility of downsizing for when the couple peacefully dined alone.   

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According to Allison, “Texas is not so bad afterall.”  She and her husband can now thrive in this nurturing and introspective setting, providing the beauty they so deeply miss.  A space where the walls bring soul fulfillment while supporting essential function and flow.  It was an honor to bring them fully home in an unfamiliar place, making sentimental the good pieces of their past, and reflecting the current point on their life’s new journey together.  Always in Love, Liz