Updated and Functional - Spring 2021 Design Home
By Elizabeth Shane
The Linen Duck’s second annual Design House was located at 1409 Windermere Drive in Columbia. This year a 1972 ranch home was selected to redesign. Lead designer, Becky Smith, said, “The team was excited to take on the challenge of bringing a new 21st century footprint to this 1970’s traditional home. With today’s new homes, tall ceilings, and open living spaces are prevalent, but I find so much value in a single level home, especially when the home sits on a beautiful lot with mature trees in a great neighborhood. The vision for this home from the beginning was to create an updated traditional concept with pops of contemporary elements to create interest.”
When talking to Smith about where the team starts when creating new floor plan concepts, she explained, “We start with incorporating essential spaces to how most people are using their homes today. Updated kitchens and large private master suites are essential, followed by spaces to entertain and have family dinners. Then we spend time trying to find opportunities to add in perks custom to the home’s character. Finding room for a home office is always a bonus with so many people working from home now.”
An updated and functional floorplan was at the heart of the project, but the mood of the Spring 2021 Design House was definitely set by the finishes and furnishings. You could not help but notice the lighting was carefully selected throughout the home. “With lower ceilings, finding stunning fixtures that cast the perfect lighting was important,” Smith said. “I incorporated fixtures from several different lighting companies who are showcased regularly at The Linen Duck.” In addition, the home carried a neutral pallet throughout with pops of color. Featured wallpaper in the foyer and bathrooms added personality, and a rich accent color along the back wall of the open living area created a cozy atmosphere. You can find more before and after pictures at thelinenduck.com under the gallery.
Inviting Entry to Open Concept:
By opening up the living room, dining room, and kitchen the design team created an open concept without sacrificing these designated areas. Once the space was opened up, the original fireplace worked perfectly to create a new elegant dining room. The team elevated the space even further by adding custom cabinetry to function as a bar equipped with a wine chiller. The living room complements the entire area with custom upholstery from Norwalk. The team used Norwalk’s newest fabric introductions and unique furniture design to add contemporary elements.
Master Bedroom:
Originally the home had one smaller master bedroom on the east wing and a converted garage that shared the laundry room and an additional bedroom on the west side of the home. Today the converted garage is now a new exterior entry into a large mudroom and a new master suite. The master suite is the jewel of the home. The built-in cabinets create character, as well as functional space. Here again, the team used Norwalk’s latest fabrics to create a custom headboard while mixing linen and velvet elements for luxurious bedding. Velvet drapes and a white cowhide chair add texture to complete the space.
Master Bathroom:
The design team did not disappoint here. Maximizing on the natural light from the large window over the bathtub, the team brought in deep rich hues to create a high-end retreat. Beautiful lighting fixtures and wallcoverings add layers of luxury. The master bathroom was redesigned from the original laundry room. Smith stated she always puts a high priority on the master bathroom and closet when remodeling.
Home Office:
Converting an extra bedroom into a home office is becoming more and more relevant. Using the original master bedroom, the team created a home office that can easily be used for a guest suite when needed. Norwalk’s conversational sofa measures the size of a twin bed, and with its down wrapped cushions, you are assured comfort when sleeping or sitting. This room features a classical design mixed with updated elements such as the waterfall glass side table, acrylic desk chair, and slouchy linen slipcovered side chair from Taylor King’s Lauren Liess collection.
The Linen Duck offers full-service design options, but they specialize in room design concepts delivered within 7 to 10 days. Utilizing their vast selection of furnishing and accessory vendors to create customized rooms, the Linen Duck design team will create a space unique to your home. Whether you have a one room makeover, space planning dilemma, or a whole house redesign their team is experienced and ready.