Open floor plans, which come with many benefits, often bring one main challenge: how to arrange the room in a way that is cohesive. The space must be configured to accommodate the flow of the family. In the case of this home that sits at the end of a quiet dead-end street in Belle Meade, the open floor plan was smartly arranged to allow individual spaces to stand on their own while complementing the rooms around them. Mark Simmons of Mark Simmons Interiors, who oversaw the interiors of this home, says, “I enjoy the fact that the space is open and has a great flow, while the spaces are distinctly their own.” The spaces considered include a sunroom; open-concept living, dining and kitchen areas; and wet bar.
Mark’s design philosophy that directs his comfortable and inviting interiors is “quality design that stands the test of time.” In this particular home, he followed a classic English style to suit the tastes of the homeowners. “It stays true to our design philosophy but reflects the style and comfort desired by our client,” he explains.
In the sunroom, which sits adjacent to the living and kitchen area, neutrals and muted tones direct the design aesthetic. Subdued shades of yellow, greens and reds are brought into the sunroom with the help of upholstered pieces that fill each corner. The tones and patterns are reminiscent of a well-appointed English farmhouse. With one corner of the room dedicated to living and the other to dining, this is an extension of both the home’s main living space and outdoor space. Exposed brick that runs along three walls and continues onto the terrace impart a sense of warmth in the room. Two large skylights and a wall of windows and double doors fill the room with natural light. “The homeowners were hoping for a sunroom to draw you in, with a game table and chairs with areas for activities such as bridge, puzzles and entertaining,” Mark explains.
The focus of family and friendly gatherings, the living room is also central to the kitchen, sunroom, outdoor living area and formal dining room. The stone fireplace serves as a statement in the space. It anchors the living space, which is defined by two couches upholstered in a light green and two chairs that smartly swivel to face the television. The designer’s favorite feature is the colors he chose. It is these colors that allow the room to work cohesively with the other spaces and stay true to the classic English style of the home. Blooms on the curtains and subdued shades soften the room, while elements such as the console that houses the television and oversized ottoman offer depth. The living room is an approachable space elevated with thoughtful design.
Updating the kitchen to increase functionality was a top priority for the homeowners. The kitchen is centered around a large island flanked by two chests. Four stools line the island for casual dining. Additional counter space and ample cabinetry create the function the homeowners were hoping for. Stylistically, the kitchen boasts the classic white color scheme, without airing too far on the side of modern and trendy. Classic elements, such as the light fixtures, chests and rich hardwood floors offset the all-white finishes. The hardwoods run into the living room, the bar and down the hallway, to create warmth and cohesion.
By incorporating subdued colors, upholstered items and natural textures, Mark and his team were able to showcase classic English style across three distinct spaces that stand on their own in an open floor plan. It is these thoughtful design elements that allow the distinctly defined spaces to work together.
Thank you to Caroline Sharpnack for the lovely photos!
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