On the picturesque Figure Eight Island, a once understated beach dwelling has been imbued with a vibrant personality through the playful use of pattern and color by an AD100 designer. This transformation speaks to a sophisticated lifestyle where personal sanctuaries are infused with character and warmth, reflecting a deep connection to family heritage and the natural environment.
A Personal Sanctuary on Figure Eight Island
Figure Eight Island, North Carolina, offers a serene escape, particularly during the quieter off-season. For Amanda Ross Bacon and her husband, Zack Bacon, their inherited four-bedroom home on this barrier island has evolved into more than just a residence; it’s a vital space for connecting with Zack’s family narrative. Ross Bacon, a philanthropist with a fashion background, embraces this coastal haven as a place of unexpected joy and connection.
A Bold Design Philosophy
When AD100 designer Muriel Brandolini was first introduced to the Figure Eight Island home, its stark white interior, intended to hide past renovations, felt uninspired. Ross Bacon and her husband entrusted Brandolini with the task of injecting life and personality into the space, a mission she embraced with her signature flair. Architect Alice Tai and New Path Contracting were also enlisted to modernize the residence.
A Playful Palette and Mid-Century Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from the optimistic spirit of the 1950s, Brandolini orchestrated a vibrant transformation. The open-plan living and dining area is a testament to this vision, featuring a playful arrangement centered around a distinctive Madonna table, a nod to the Memphis Group. Complementing this are Pepe López rugs with windowpane-plaid patterns and a cascade of multicolored lights reminiscent of an ice cream parlor. The sofas and banquettes are upholstered in block-printed cottons designed by Brandolini, featuring her signature checkerboard curtains at the windows. The space is further enriched by vintage finds discovered during joint excursions to antique shops.
Brandolini’s distinctive design language is evident throughout the home. In the kitchen, she eschewed traditional cabinets for charming apron-ruffle café curtains, creating a “50s caravan” ambiance. The main living area is softened with dusky greens, teals, and warm browns, artfully drawing the eye inward before it drifts to the captivating view. The entry hall features broad, coffee-hued stripes that unify the space and cleverly mask architectural nuances.
Serene and Eclectic Bedrooms
The four bedrooms serve as personal retreats, each distinguished by enveloping colors and unique lamps sourced from online discoveries. Hand-embroidered bed linens from Vis-A-Vis Paris, curated by Brandolini, add a touch of bespoke luxury. The bathrooms are a vibrant display of Brandolini’s artistry, featuring exuberantly tiled surfaces. Brandolini notes, “Playing with color and tile gives life, and it’s no more money than to paint a wall white.”
Ross Bacon reflects on her friend’s design approach: “It’s unequivocal, Muriel’s language. Her mind is so expansive. It just doesn’t stop.” She appreciates the daring juxtapositions and the willingness to explore novel concepts. Brandolini’s design philosophy ultimately creates a setting that fosters connection and provides a tranquil, aesthetically rich environment.
The home’s captivating light, described by Ross Bacon as “soothing and hypnotic,” enhances the tranquil atmosphere, offering a unique perspective on coastal living, where the beauty of the natural world, like the sight of porpoises from the bedroom window, is a constant source of inspiration.
Business Style Takeaway: This residence exemplifies how a bold and personalized design approach can transform a property into a deeply meaningful personal haven. The strategic infusion of color, pattern, and curated vintage elements not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also cultivates an environment that fosters relaxation, family connection, and a refined personal brand.
Based on materials from : www.architecturaldigest.com