"A Modern Mix"

I don't know that I've ever been more excited to share a completed project than I am today. This is likely my personal favorite since beginning this journey.  Not sure if it's the beautiful items my client owned already or the fun we have bringing things together, but this one is definitely a good one. 

I'll start by sharing that my client recently moved to the Charlotte area, but actually reached out to me last year about the project.  She'd been following the blog for a few years and knew that she wanted to work with me when she moved here.  Needless to say I was flattered, but I encouraged her to wait until she'd moved in for us to begin.  

The move was a downsize and she needed to incorporate much of what she already had into the new space.  Here's a look at where things began....

No doubt there were beautiful pieces to work with, however we were looking to infuse a little life into things with the addition of more modern and fun elements.  The plan was to assess the current furnishings and decor and huge collection of art and determine how we could make those items work in new ways.  

Let's take a look...

The client had no shortage of beautiful accessories.  She also just happened to be a big fan of interior design and the collection of design books rivaled my own.  It may styling bookshelves a designer's playground.  

In addition to beautiful accessories, there was also a multitude of beautiful original art pieces to display.  We created several gallery walls, including this one int he entry hallway.  We added a bench for additional seating and to anchor the display.

The client requested a bar area so we utilized the existing console table and created a fun area to entertain guests for cocktails.

One of the benefits of working with someone who loves and keeps up with interior design is that they tend to be a little more willing to try something new.  I tossed out the idea of upholstering the doors to the office/ladies lounge and after a little persuading, we went for it. 

Once again Mark from Baity's Custom Upholstery worked his magic and we came up with a design utilizing this lush lavender velvet and brushed nickel nails.  To Die For!!!

Believe it or not, the sofa wasn't even in the original plan.  I stumbled upon this Duralee beauty and pitched the idea of adding a sofa instead of a pair of chairs.  It worked!

A few lavender pieces, and a place to display my client's collectibles and this space was quickly turned into the best spot in the house. 

                  

Don't you just love the leopard rug?  We had it bound from a carpet and it works perfectly.

I love everything about this space.  

The challenge in the dining area was that the dining table, although lovely, was extremely traditional. We amped things up with a fun animal print cushion on the chairs (fabric by Duralee) and a bright rug.  The mirror and modern lighting helped to completely change the look and feel of the classic dining set. 

The client's fabulous art collection became the focal point in the living space.  There was nothing to do but display it all in a way that creates so much visual interest that the eye literally dances from piece to piece.  

The Windy O'Connor pillows (local Charlotte abstract artist) were just the right touch to punch up the traditional lines of the creamy sofa. 

Layers were key in this space.  Layered rugs, layered art, layered accessories, layered window treatments...it all works so well.  

This space is a great example of using what you love.  The client is serious about surrounding herself with beautiful things and doesn't concern herself with what "matches".  She buys what she loves and it all works and never goes out of style.  

Lastly, we tackled the back porch.  The area was screened in so we wanted to create an additional living space.  The addition of lighting and a couple of furniture pieces help to bring the indoors out in this cozy outdoor space.

The key here as the addition of color.  The black and natural awning stripe lends itself well to the addition of color.  We began with the pink, green and yellow Madcap Cottage print pillows and we from there.  

Wouldn't you love to enjoy a glass of lemonade here?  In fact, I'll probably be back this coming spring to do just that!

I'm so proud of this project, for a number of reasons but mainly because I know how much the client loved it.  Believe it or not, this was the first project where I got tears! There is nothing that makes me more excited than when I know the client now loves their home.  

Let me know what you think.  Do you love this one as much as we do?