Greatroom

Our client's voice on the phone said "I've found it, the perfect location but we'll have to gut the condo!"

The next nine months were spent shuttling back and forth between Florida and Madison, WI., overseeing the remodeling of a large oceanfront condo. Walls were taken out, ceilings raised; curves replaced angled walls, kitchen reconfigured with the latest in technology and appliances.

Once the structural aspects were under control we could concentrate on the décor. In this open design great room, all attention was given to bringing the colors of the outside in. Large blue stone tile ran from the foyer through the great room, dining room and kitchen.
The custom rug depicts the action of currents and underwater bubbles. Two high back chairs and footstools accompany a large deep luxurious sectional all by Directional Furniture, case goods by Century Furniture.

Two kidney shaped sofas sit across each other in this spacious great room. A color scheme of taupe, black, gold and cream gives a lot of latitude to any décor.

Introducing a large scale paisley patterned fabric on the accompanying chair gives balance and harmony to the room. Very tall ceilings allow for beautiful silk panels, large 'chunky' hand glazed finials reflect light and tasseled hold backs lessen the cavernous feel.

When we first met with our clients we were presented a poppy red petal from a silk flower. This was to be the basis from which our color scheme came. Keeping the orientation of the furniture to give the best views of the lake was sometimes problematic.

Pockets of hospitality were sometimes tucked into corners but were still able to keep the lake in view. Color palette: Off white, taupe, black, and poppy red were incorporated into the furniture fabrics and area rug. The bar wall at the far end of the room was mirrored in smoke glass, with stained glass in, above and on the side of the cabinet.

Furniture by Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Henredon and Hickory White. Stained glass by Britt.

When we first met with our clients we were presented a poppy red petal from a silk flower. This was to be the basis from which our color scheme came. Keeping the orientation of the furniture to give the best views of the lake was sometimes problematic.

Pockets of hospitality were sometimes tucked into corners but were still able to keep the lake in view. Color palette: Off white, taupe, black, and poppy red were incorporated into the furniture fabrics and area rug. The bar wall at the far end of the room was mirrored in smoke glass, with stained glass in, above and on the side of the cabinet.

Furniture by Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Henredon and Hickory White. Stained glass by Britt.

When we first met with our clients we were presented a poppy red petal from a silk flower. This was to be the basis from which our color scheme came. Keeping the orientation of the furniture to give the best views of the lake was sometimes problematic.

Pockets of hospitality were sometimes tucked into corners but were still able to keep the lake in view. Color palette: Off white, taupe, black, and poppy red were incorporated into the furniture fabrics and area rug. The bar wall at the far end of the room was mirrored in smoke glass, with stained glass in, above and on the side of the cabinet.

Furniture by Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Henredon and Hickory White. Stained glass by Britt.

A warm grouping of comfortable yet stylish furniture provides just the right atmosphere. This great room was quite large so small pockets of hospitality were needed to break up the space without losing its expansiveness.

Area rugs not only defined the space but anchored the seatings.

A family of musicians loved this room. Both wall and ceilings were painted in Ralph Lauren's moss green which matched the carpet color perfectly.

Music motif tapestry panels were used sparingly on the windows enabling much need natural light to wash in.

Break the rules!

The traditional use of stained glass is well known. What isn't known is that you can use it anywhere. One of the most interesting ways we have found is to use it in conjunction with fabric. Here it is shown with stationary window panels. Sometimes windows are so tall the top treatment is lost. The glass is translucent yet colorful, reflects light adding a very interesting element to this beautiful great room.

A 'broken wall' tiled fireplace enhances this casual gathering place which could really perform just about anywhere in the home.
Given the warm colors and the selections of fabric and leather for the furniture, comfort is kept at a premium.

Three chairs form a comfortable listening grouping for the piano area of this great room. Tall columns of colorful fabric puddle on the floor and topped with 'kerchiefs' contrast lined give a unique and refreshing look.

Limited space doesn't mean you cannot have color or comfortable surroundings. Careful editing of accessories, repetition of color and pattern and the best use of light all contribute to balance and harmony.

The custom rug took its cue from the furniture fabric's floral design, anchoring the space.

Three chairs form a comfortable listening grouping for the piano area of this great room. Tall columns of colorful fabric puddle on the floor and topped with 'kerchiefs' contrast lined give a unique and refreshing look.