From the Ground Up
Using a blend of subtle color, bold pattern and strong architectural detailing, a talented design trio breathes sophisticated style into a massive new construction for a family of seven
No new home build comes without obstacles, and for a blended family of seven, they had their fair share from the beginning. First it was the unforeseen circumstances that required architect Brad Wright and builder Will Hines of Keeoco Development to expedite the 10,000-square-foot homeβs construction timeline.Β
Then it was Greenville, South Carolina, designer Michele Johnsonβs challenge of personalizing the massive manse so its design honored the architecture, but still felt true to the familyβall while ensuring the home would be move-in ready within one yearβs time. While some may shy away from such commitment, the dynamic design trio said βno problem.β
Though the architecture leans French traditional with towering vaulted ceilings, mahogany doors and steel elements throughout, Johnson was eager to keep the interiors approachable. In the main gathering areasβthe living room, family room and kitchenβwarm tones and textures take center stage through an inviting palette of browns, grays and reds.Β
βThe design easily couldβve gone very traditional and heavy, but I really didnβt want that,β says Johnson. βWe wanted it to feel elegant, but lived in. Something worthy of a cocktail party or a kidsβ Halloween party.β
For example, step inside the front door and the living room beckons with rich cranberry mohair sofas complemented by pink linen wing chairs boasting a pink velvet cushion. For an added layer, bleached pine chests with a pinkish hue accentuate the tone-on-tone theme while wood beams give the space an aged appeal. βI like for you to be able to glaze over a room and see a peaceful overall look, but when you sit and study it, you notice the subtle play in texture and color tones,β says Johnson.
Thatβs not to say that bright colors and whimsical patterns were off limits. In fact, they were encouraged. Upstairs, each child lent a hand in designing their personal spaces. Colorful prints overflow from room to room in dragon, zebra and abstract wallpaper, while pink canopy beds in the daughtersβ sleeping corridors serve as space for daydreaming and princess play.Β
A true team effort to build a polished home under strenuous circumstances, the project was complex, but the goal was simple: a stylish, sophisticated place fit for adults and children alike. βAll of the rooms lend special purpose to each person in the house,β says Johnson. βThey really made this a family moment.β
INTERIOR DESIGN Michele Johnson, Michele Johnson Interior Design. (864) 660-2046; michelejohnsondesign.com ARCHITECT Brad Wright, Wright Design. (864) 501-4944; wrightdesignllc.com BUILDER Will Hines, Keeoco Development. (706) 816-3677; keeocodevelopment.com Custom Window Treatments Kim Wickert, Recreate Your. recreateyour.com