The Living Room from our ‘Oh So Spanish’ Project
Perhaps one of my favorite transformations in our Oh So Spanish project is the Living Room. A bit removed from the other often-used spaces in the House, this room saw only occasional activity and, well, we all know how I feel about underutilized spaces. 🤨
We quickly determined that the client’s love of outdoor entertaining might best be served by an indoor space. The living room, with several french doors onto the patio, was perfect for the job. With its generous size and attached, but more intimate sunroom, this is a space that invites group gatherings large and small.
In one corner of the room sat a piano rarely played but whose corner position promised to be more frequently used by another piece of furniture, a custom bar. As it was installed during Covid, I think we can all appreciate that particular choice.
Several other decisions helped balance the design for this space. Mindful of the home’s historical relevance and it’s architecture, we looked for subtle ways to introduce the client’s need for more modern living and entertainment:
A TV over the mantle is hidden by a well concealed piece of art that rolls away with a remote, additional sconces, custom made to suit the timeless Spanish design of the house, were added for better nighttime lighting. Perhaps a more overt way of playing up the room’s architecture was the addition of the limestone fireplace, custom built to add visual interest and anchor the seating area.
A blend of textured rugs, bone inlay side tables, asian ceramics, antique wood pieces, and custom, upholstered seating helped create a layered, curated look. The combination tells a story of a home well loved by a family with a taste for travel and an appreciation for architectural history.
The Sunroom. Only a few pieces were replaced in the sunroom and their colors were thoughtfully selected to work both with the existing rug and tie into the living room palette.
Courtney Thomas, ASID
Principal & Lead Designer
My job is to make spaces functional in their layout, comfortable in their use, inspirational in their style and luxurious in their appointment. In that order. For that one moment after installation, the pictures are perfect.
