Designing a home is often accompanied by a search for inspiration. In the case of Leonora Pitts and her family, their dream was to capture the essence of a foggy Irish morning infused with lush greenery. This vision, rooted in Leonora's heritage, led them to embark on a transformation journey for their Eagle Rock home. They sought the expertise of Barrett Cooke from Arterberry Cooke architecture firm and interior designer Tony Wei to breathe new life into their space.
Reviving a 1900s Craftsman Gem
The Pitts family's existing home, a Craftsman-style gem from the early 1900s, was in need of revitalization. Although generously sized, with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, the rooms felt cramped and the ceilings low. The disjointed layout and outdated design called for a thoughtful touch to unleash the home's true potential.
The green theme is accentuated with the fireplace. - Scott Pitts
A Kitchen Oasis and a Close Connection to Nature
One of the primary challenges was to solve the dilemma of an existing galley kitchen and a hallway leading to the exterior. Barrett and the team proposed a small addition to square off the kitchen, create a workspace, and establish a seamless connection to the outside. The Pitts family longed for a garden that felt intimately connected to their home. The solution included an eat-in breakfast area that effortlessly leads to the yard.
The kitchen boasts ample storage and light fixtures that complement the Craftsman style. - Scott Pitts
Elevating the Upstairs Space
Upstairs, Barrett and her team embarked on a comprehensive transformation. The laundry, previously located in the kitchen, found its new home in a brand new bathroom. By reconfiguring the existing bathroom, they created an ensuite for the primary bedroom and crafted an additional closet, maximizing storage space and functionality.
The breakfast area offers a cozy spot to start the day. - Scott Pitts
Honoring the Craftsman Aesthetic
Respecting the Craftsman aesthetic was at the forefront of the interior design process. Tony highlights that every design choice was evaluated through the lens of preserving the home's architectural integrity. Yet, they also recognized the opportunity to add contemporary flair while maintaining a delicate balance. It's these subtle deviations from tradition that inject vibrancy into the design, creating a delightful harmony.
The dining room showcases a stunning floral green wallpaper. - Scott Pitts
Greens, Grays, and A Touch of Vintage
The color green played a pivotal role in inspiring the design journey. Being told that 85% of Leonora's personality revolved around this hue, Tony and the team embraced greens and grays, tying them into the design palette. The Craftsman elements harmoniously coexist with the family's cherished vintage and antique finds, infusing the space with character and warmth.
Even the powder room embodies the captivating green palette. - Scott Pitts
Designing a Home as a Cinematic Narrative
For Tony, designing a home is akin to crafting a screenplay. Each room serves as a scene, propelling the audience from one space to the next, eventually leading to the culmination of the story. The delicate balance between adhering to tradition and exploring new possibilities became the driving force behind the project. Every decision was thoughtfully made, ensuring the story of the home unfolded harmoniously.
The lush garden completes the picturesque transformation. - Scott Pitts
Looking at the completed design, it's evident that Barrett and Tony succeeded in bringing Leonora's vision to life. The Craftsman details, the comforting green-gray palette, and the seamless blend of vintage elements reflect the homeowners' dreams and desires. The Pitts family can now welcome friends with open arms, and Leonora has discovered a new passion for daily watercolor painting in her vibrant kitchen oasis.
