This is a traditional brick house in Louisville. Black shutters, cream paint and traditional landscaping all adorn the front. But on the inside? What a different story!
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Lee W. Robinson recently finished designing the majority of the bottom floor of this house, taking it from traditional to a more modern, glamorous look. It is not a jarring transition, as he used many classic elements that have a new, modern twist. Pieces are a mixture of old and new, or they are new interpretations of older design elements.
To make this home more up-to-date, Lee concentrated on a calming, neutral color palette combined with a keen use of multiple textures and an attention to detail in all items of decor. The color palette is light blue, gray, ivory and camel, with pops of green and darker blue throughout. There is an abundance of light, which he uses to create a wash of illumination over all his textures. Velvets look softer, glass gleams and mirrors are highlighted with reflection.
Let’s take a look at this beautiful transformation, shall we?
FOYER
PinThis traditional foyer is marked with a large, green centerpiece in a mercury glass vase.PinThe foyer is a neutral color, accented by greenery and textures all around.PinThis lamp is made of sharkskin, known as shagreen.
FORMAL SITTING ROOM
PinThe formal sitting room is a blend of old and new. Gray velvet bergère armchairs flank both sides of the room. A mirror hangs over the hearth with traditional lighting fixtures on each side. The open metal octagonal table with a glass top centers the space.PinThe three-drawer chest with Tony Duquette-inspired star pulls adds a modern element to a traditional piece of furniture. The painting above it is done in diamond dust.PinThis turtle caught our eye, the gold shell playing off the gold metal on the coffee table.
DINING ROOM
PinA large, circular, wooden table is surrounded by leather nailhead seats and illuminated with a metal reflective light fixture. The wallpaper is by Stark and makes an artistic, yet calming, statement in this room.PinA dentil edge detail around the bottom of this chair is done in nailheads. Also notice the notches at the top.PinThe inlaid wood design on this round table mirrors the round light fixture above.PinA new take on the traditional sideboard features mirrored panels.PinThe carpet is a soothing, textured silk, and Lee Robinson notched out the corners to add interest.PinA modern light fixture marks the path to the living room.
LIVING ROOM
PinThis large room has plenty of natural light and seating for many guests, especially to relax and enjoy the piano. The walls are covered with a silver, iridescent, sea grass wallpaper.PinA wall of mirrors, an installment that Lee Robinson did himself, helps create perspective in this large room. Also notice the Celerie Kemble lucite coffee table.PinLots of lush textures and a deep blue pop of color on the pillows add to the luxury of this room.PinA glass orb on a glass side table helps reflect all the natural light streaming in through the windows.
KITCHEN
PinThis large, eat-in kitchen has three distinct areas: eating nook, kitchen and sitting area by the fireplace and television.PinAnother view of the room, this time showcasing the cozy sectional couch and ottoman, perfect for watching TV and gathering together.PinThe stools match the chairs at the kitchen table, with a light gold-toned linen upholstery bordered by nailheads.PinThe breakfast nook has a bench with a pedestal table and chairs that complement the kitchen stools at the island.PinHere’s another view of this ample kitchen, with light cabinetry, light marble island and stainless steel appliances.
Transitioning from a traditional to a modern home can be a subtle, yet impactful, change. Adding a lighter color scheme, losing the darker wooden elements and using light throughout your home are all good ways to start. All of the elements of this home are modernized versions of classic design, from the dining room sideboard, to the gray velvet chairs in the sitting room, to the pedestal table in the kitchen. Modern design is timeless, simple and full of many elements that will never go out of style.
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