Come along as we tour the formal living room at Blore Heath! The wonderful architectural features of this home really inspired the project. Our entire vision for the renovation was to preserve the old world craftsmanship, but interpret it in a fresh and modern way.

We had an ‘agent orange’ factor that we had to address with the dated wood floors but also, all the trim. We strategically left the ceiling and windows untouched, preferring to keep the integrity of the beautiful wood. However, we changed all the wood floors from the red mahogany to a wider plank in a classic mid tone—this immediately updated the entire first floor!

This house is proof of what paint can do. The formerly yellow Tuscan rival walls were painted Alabaster— and look at the transformation! We did take it a step further and decided to paint out the wood only in the cased opening that leads to the adjacent family room. Doing this made the room feel modern, made the dentil moulding pop and interestingly, really made the windows and coffers even more of a feature.

Replacing an ornate and heavy ceiling medallion was key. We added this stunning chandelier and companion sconces that emit the most gorgeous amber light from the cut crystals. It’s definitely a mood in here.

We decided that this would be the ‘Christmas Tree Room’ but avoided the once a year only use by adding comfortable furniture. Absolutely no apologies that this is an adult space and we embraced that. The fabrics and textures are luxe and convey an approachable elegance that makes for a wonderful spot to have drinks and conversation. We added the french antique ottoman in a sumptuous silk fabric and layered in velvets, wools and brocades to amp up the textures.

The console table was my clients - the scroll work and travertine was patinaed and beautiful and…. broken. The movers ! We have at our disposal so many talented trades and artisans that we were able to quickly restore this investment piece and no one is the wiser. Tell us: do you think the lamp achieved our ‘it just came from an archaeological dig’ goal? And the bronze mirror - ever so contemporary, was the perfect ying to the yang.

Here’s to making Christmas memories and toasting glasses of champs!