Written by Rebecca Robinson of Monarch Lane Interiors / Photos by Allison Elefante-Ruby and Peach

What I love most about interior design is not only transforming our client’s spaces to make them more functional but creating surprises that make you say “wow”! Being in the music and entertainment industry, our client needed great spaces to entertain on the first level of their home and dreamed of having a show-stopper chef’s kitchen.

First, we focused on reworking the first floor plan to create a better overall flow. We removed the drop ceilings and columns that had previously divided the rooms. Then, we added new structural ceiling beams and wrapped them in warm wood to add visual interest and draw your eye up. The design direction was “rustic elegance”, combining classical finishes with raw materials for a truly vibrant combination. Striking shades of blue permeate the spaces and make the various areas connect visually.

When we first started designing the kitchen, our client knew they wanted this beautiful range by Viking. This substantial range in a dramatic shade of navy would need some grand features to compliment it. So, we topped it with a custom copper hood in smooth and hammered silver tones. Next, we anchored the room by creating a huge entertaining island to allow all their friends to hang out with the chef. We gave the island a wave with a double-stacked countertop that took eight people to load in and install. Then, like shining stars, we hung two large pendants by Visual Comfort in an antique mirrored finish to bring depth and contrast.

We had panels made for the refrigerator in a beautiful faux mercury glass to bring balance and reflect light around the room. These panels are not only stunning but are strong enough to handle everyday use. In addition, we had the panels framed in maple wood with a walnut finish to coordinate with the island.

Opposite the kitchen’s range was an open stairwell to the basement. We walled up the stairs and created a bookcase that doubles as a secret door. The “door” leads to additional entertaining areas that would surely surprise guests! A navy patterned wallpaper was added to the back of the bookcase for contrast. All the accessories have been affixed to the shelves, so everything stays put when using the swinging door.

The pantry’s drink station is a modern workhorse, whether you use it in the morning for coffee or in the evening for a cocktail. We added a bar faucet that matches the main kitchen faucet with a two-toned silver striped sink, lovingly called the “offering sink”. I especially love the built-in Miele coffeemaker because our sweet client always offers us an expertly crafted cup when we visit!

The hearth room is now more connected to the kitchen after removing and installing new ceiling planks and beams connecting the rooms. Again, we pulled the blue tones into this space with different furnishings and accessories. The layout we created called for a custom coffee table and ottoman. The table was designed to be open on two sides, and the ottoman is hinged, perfect for hiding toys and blankets as well as putting up your feet.

A hallway leading to the garage was removed and converted into a laundry oasis and mudroom entrance. The laundry room has custom cubbies and cabinetry throughout. The walls are tiled to the ceiling in a very organic but intricate leaf tile by Artistic Tile, grouted in a rich gray. We used the same wood tones from the beams in the adjoining room and gave the floor a herringbone pattern in a durable tile that mimics slate. Now, this is a room that will make you actually want to do laundry!

The adjacent powder room was treated to a visual punch with a metallic and navy wallpaper paired with a soft gray vanity cabinet in a classic shape. The star sconces and polished nickel bring elegance and whimsy together for this fun room.

The formal front living room’s walls are covered with a woven seagrass in sandy tones with coordinating neutrally upholstered furniture. Blue accents continue throughout with a tranquil shade of blue on the paneled ceiling and decorative pillows. The dreamy media cabinet has a water-colored effect and pulls the room together perfectly. We are confident that our clients are anything but blue in their refreshed and functional spaces!