The opportunity to craft a new residence on five verdant acres near the coast presented a unique architectural challenge. The homeowner, inspired by the stately homes of Sir Edwin Lutyens, sought to imbue the property with a similar gravitas, characterized by steeply pitched rooflines and substantial chimneys.
Architectural Vision and Interior Design Collaboration
To realize this vision, the homeowner engaged the expertise of Kligerman Architecture & Design, a firm renowned for its mastery of traditional architectural styles. The subsequent search for an interior designer who could marry creativity with meticulous execution for the ambitious 15,000-square-foot project proved to be a more intricate endeavor. The client sought a partner capable of navigating the myriad decisions inherent in ground-up construction with both artistic flair and organizational prowess.
An Inspired International Collaboration
The search for the ideal interior designer led the homeowner to London and New York–based designer Bryan O’Sullivan. Intrigued by his portfolio, which included notable projects like the redesign of Claridge’s restaurant and the Westmoreland Café at the Frick Collection, she reached out via Instagram. A serendipitous exchange led to a meeting in New York, marking the beginning of a fruitful collaboration.
Harmonious Design Philosophy
“We established an immediate rapport,” O’Sullivan recounts. “Upon visiting the site, we were profoundly impressed by Kligerman’s architectural renderings and the sheer scope of the landscape. It truly evokes a sense of expansive countryside living.” This shared appreciation for the environment and architectural vision laid the foundation for a cohesive design approach.
A Palette for Modern Living
The interior design narrative unfolds with a thoughtfully curated palette of dusty peach, sage green, and burnt ochre, complemented by the abundant use of exposed wood. The objective was to infuse the residence with a contemporary sensibility, balancing historical architectural references with the dynamic needs of a modern family. “The finishes needed to feel authentic, but the decor had to reflect the home of a family with teenagers,” the homeowner explained.
Inviting and Sophisticated Spaces
O’Sullivan’s design approach skillfully balances refined elegance with a playful spirit. He notes, “When the structure of the seating is too formal, we find that a lot of times families don’t end up using these living rooms.” To encourage lively gatherings, he designed a pair of semicircular sofas that create an intimate seating area, upholstered in a distinctive apricot-tinted mohair, which he aptly describes as “a more fun conversation pit.” A striking dark-bronze pendant by Patrice Dangel, acquired in Paris, presides over the space, adding a touch of metropolitan sophistication.
Transitional Living Spaces
The formal living and adjacent dining rooms, featuring wood paneling adorned with a distinctive geometric mural by Maria Redondo, seamlessly transition into an orangerie-style gallery. Bathed in natural light, this space has become a beloved sanctuary for the homeowner, offering a tranquil vista of the gardens. Beyond the French doors, the landscape design by Deborah Nevins establishes a profound connection between the residence and its natural surroundings, echoing the harmonious principles espoused by Lutyens and his esteemed garden collaborator, Gertrude Jekyll. This dwelling masterfully integrates historical context with contemporary family life, demonstrating how the past can enrich the present.
Timeless Elegance and Modern Comfort
“What Lutyens understood, and what continues to inspire our work, is that true luxury lies in the quiet perfection of proportion and the honest expression of materials,” states Joe Carline, a partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design. This philosophy is palpable throughout the residence.
A Statement of Sophistication
One particularly captivating space within the three-story residence is a dedicated cocktail bar, enveloped in rich crimson brocatelle fabric. Complementing this are a generously curved velvet banquette and an adjoining powder room finished in exquisite Italian marble, showcasing a bold and luxurious aesthetic.
“I wanted one space that felt sexy and offered an element of surprise,” shares the homeowner, who frequently hosts social gatherings. “Everyone gravitates toward the bar for a drink.” This intentionally designed area serves as a focal point for entertaining and adds a layer of sophisticated indulgence to the home.
Business Style Takeaway: This residence masterfully blends historical architectural reverence with contemporary comfort, demonstrating how thoughtful interior design can create spaces that are both timelessly elegant and eminently livable. The strategic use of material and proportion enhances the overall aesthetic, reflecting a sophisticated personal brand and an appreciation for enduring quality.
Details can be found on the website : www.architecturaldigest.com