The Client: A family of four, two teenage children, plus dog, with a busy schedule seeking togetherness and finding their home was a stop-over, a place to pass through.

The Brief: Adapt the existing historic layout to encourage connection and quality time as a family.

First up, we talked extensively about how the rooms were currently used and where the sticking points were: organization and flow. It became clear that flipping the dining and living rooms made more sense. We added custom millwork to provide a clear drop-off point for daily items and created a TV lounge off the kitchen where everyone could curl up together.

The clients had wonderful art and vintage furniture, so we incorporated key pieces selected for their ease and function. We focused on materials that will stand up to movie nights, playful silhouettes, a palette of colors that are dynamic and youthful.

Inspiration: The practical elegance of Shaker design. Matisse’s lively paper cutouts. Sunlit fields.

The Result: A home that now regularly plays host to most of the local high-school student population and a daily life that feels more serene.