When your client buys a 1920s Cotswold-style cottage designed by iconic architect Harold Zook, step one is taking stock of the architectural details: timber framing, exposed beams, diamond-shaped window panes, intricate stonework — all of the Tudor goodness worth preserving. This home had received a lovely renovation courtesy of the previous owners, including a de Guilio kitchen that would stay, but the overall style was too heavy and traditional for this design-forward family. We did our homework and decided to contemporize things with a West Coast slant as evidenced in the large living room. Here, two juxtaposing rugs break up the space for entertaining — one in a heathered sisal, the other a swirl of clays, rusts and blues. Then we thoughtfully positioned a pair of mohair chairs, a suede ottoman, an Eames chair, and a custom-designed sofa in charcoal boucle to entice intimate gatherings. Take a gander at the coach house that we turned into a handsome home office for the husband. Inspired by old school country club vibes and bespoke suiting, we even imposed a classic Paul Smith stripe on the wall for a wow focal point.
