Details
Catering to a charming southern belle and her hubby from Brooklyn, this interior design project brought coastal tranquility and farmhouse warmth to a suburban D.C. townhouse. Tasked with creating an office/playroom for a couple with a penchant for coastal aesthetics and a nod to farmhouse style, we embarked on a journey of architectural refinement and soothing hues.
Drawing inspiration from the rustic allure of farmhouse design, we meticulously crafted the space with thoughtful millwork. Board and batten enveloped the room, and we framed windows and doors in matching clean, flat-profile trim. Vertical shiplap behind the desk and built-in shelving added depth and character, while shaker-style cabinetry lent a timeless elegance. These architectural elements not only satisfied the clients' design preferences but also accentuated the room's proportions, enhancing its sense of space and airiness.
Our color palette, reminiscent of a tranquil beachscape, evoked memories of raising a family in central Florida. Shades of bright white, greenish-blue, tans, browns, grays, and blacks mirrored the hues of clouds, sea foam, sand, coastal grasses, weathered piers, and the ocean, of course. To complement these tones, we introduced textures inspired by coastal landscapes—jute rugs, woven details, natural wood tones, and ceramics both glazed and unglazed—all invoking the relaxed ambiance of a coastal retreat.
Balancing tradition with modernity, we infused the space with contemporary accents to harmonize with its urban setting. Brass and matte black metal finishes added a touch of sophistication, while bouclé-covered swivel chairs and sleek, modern shapes brought a fresh, current vibe to the design.
Functionality was paramount in this dual-purpose space tailored for both work and leisure. With two desks strategically positioned for collaborative tasks or independent work, ample room was provided for laptops, paperwork, and household organization. Whether tackling work-from-home responsibilities or simply enjoying downtime, the couple now has a serene sanctuary where productivity meets relaxation—a tranquil haven just a stone's throw away from the bustling cityscape.
Please scroll for details on the kids’ space.
The Coast (Almost) House
Location
Ashburn, VA
Photography
Lexi Reilly
The Playroom
Originally designed with the T.V. mounted and a built-in banquette bench with storage, this section of the room underwent a thoughtful refinement process, adapting to the evolving needs of the homeowners and their growing grandchildren. Designed with versatility in mind, the furniture selection prioritized functionality and adaptability, steering away from permanent fixtures to accommodate the dynamic nature of the space.
While retaining the room's architectural charm, including a decorative flush mount to enhance the ambient lighting, the focus shifted towards creating a flexible environment conducive to play, creativity, and relaxation. With a deliberate decision to leave ample space for growth and change, the furniture pieces were curated to facilitate easy rearrangement and adaptability.
For the younger grandchildren, a familiar table serves as a versatile surface for board games and art projects ready to adorn the wall left blank for just that. Nestled atop a soft, woven wool-blend rug, the table can quickly be moved to allow for hours of imaginative play. Designed to be lightweight and easily maneuverable, this allows for seamless transitions between playtime and relaxation.
As the children mature, the space effortlessly transitions to accommodate their changing interests. Swivel chairs positioned on the office side of the room provide a cozy spot for older kids to enjoy screen time, offering comfort and versatility without compromising on style.
At Christmas time, the space in front of the third window provides an opportune place for a tree to be seen from the street while leaving plenty of room for the family of 10 to gather for cherished traditions. The storage cabinet, seamlessly integrated into the space, serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing storage for additional office and craft supplies, as well as toys and games for the grandchildren.
By extending the color palette and textures from the rest of the room, this section seamlessly integrates into the overall design scheme, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic that balances practicality with style. This multifunctional space evolves with the homeowners and their loved ones, offering a versatile canvas for years of cherished memories to come.
