No matter where you are in your interior design journey, whether you're building from scratch or decorating bit by bit, finding inspiration is essential. We all seek inspiration from various sources - fabrics, magazines, friends' homes - anything that sparks that sense of comfort and familiarity. Inspiring images serve as a starting point for creating a home that reflects your unique style. Today, we present you with some captivating modern Southwest designs by the talented interior designers Michael Violante and Paul Rochford in our Inspiration Files.
East Coast Meets Santa Fe: Modern Southwest Style
Designed by V&R Interiors
Photo Credit: Wendy McEahern
Welcome to a historic Santa Fe home, masterfully transformed into a modern haven by the visionary duo of Michael Violante and Paul Rochford from V&R Interiors. This stunning property, originally built in 1900, has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur while incorporating energy-efficient features such as water-saving gardens and landscaping. The owners, a Washington, DC couple, have been visiting Santa Fe for years with their children. Now, with a house filled with grandchildren, they desired a chic, serene, and kid-friendly home perfect for entertaining and outdoor activities. This paradise offers ample space for family gatherings, cooking, outdoor adventures, hiking, fishing, skiing, and horseback riding.
Contemporary living room by Violante & Rochford Interiors. Photo credit: Wendy McEahern
As you enter through the grand wooden gates, you'll find yourself in a picturesque courtyard, surrounded by classic New Mexico Territorial-style architecture. The 6,000 square foot house sits atop a scenic hill, boasting thick adobe walls, deep windowsills, and traditional vigas on the ceilings. Originally, these vigas were ornamental, but after the renovation, they now provide a delightful play of light and space.
The remodeling of this house was entrusted to Sharon Woods from Woods Design Builders, who also serves on the Santa Fe Historic Design Board. The kitchen was expanded and updated, a new living room, master suite, porch, and office were added, along with a refreshing pool. The newly installed flooring, cabinetry, windows, and doors have transformed the interiors, flooding each room with natural light and offering breathtaking views from every corner. The architects flawlessly merged the original beauty of the house with modern touches, tailored to the sophisticated taste of the East Coast couple.
Colorful southwestern bedroom by Violante & Rochford Interiors. Photo credit: Wendy McEahern
The interiors of this house showcase a harmonious blend of old and new furnishings from different time periods, reflecting the philosophy of Violante & Rochford. For example, an 18th-century French benched seat coexists beautifully with antique Santa Fe chairs in the dining room. Custom creations, such as the dining table crafted by local wood artisan Christopher Thayer, further enhance the unique character of the space. The designers collaborated with local craftspeople to create the exquisite dining room punch-tin chandeliers and utilized fabrics from the UK, John Robshaw, and Brunshweig to add elegance and exclusivity to the project.
Comfortable southwestern living room by Violante & Rochford Interiors. Photo credit: Wendy McEahern
The owners, initially from the UK, brought their European-style pieces with them from Washington, which effortlessly blend with Native American, Spanish Colonial, and New Mexican culture and art. Violante & Rochford curated the couple's extensive art collection, adding new pieces to create an environment that is both elegant and comfortable, resulting in a truly distinctive home.
Modern Southwest kitchen by Violante & Rochford Interiors. Photo credit: Wendy McEahern
In our Inspiration Files, you will find more captivating home designs that will inspire you to create your dream space. From elegant eclectic bedrooms to modernized Southwest style decorating, our curated collection will help you discover your unique vision for your home.
Modern southwest dining room by Violante & Rochford Interiors. Photo credit: Wendy McEahern
Take a moment to immerse yourself in the charm of the East Coast meeting Santa Fe, where modern Southwest style creates a truly captivating home environment.
