Lamont: A Family Home with a Minimalist Edge & Masculine Vibe
As an active family of 5, our clients knew their home needed an update to align with their on-the-go lifestyle. The couple with 3 busy teen/tween boys wanted to transform the practicality of their home in a big way & dreamed of creating livable spaces that felt like them.
Since their jobs and family life demanded so much of their time, they gave us just a couple of key inspiration images and told us they wanted a high contrast design with black & white, a minimalist edge & an elegant masculine vibe. We then took the lead on design & direction — which is part of why this project was such a success. (Letting the experts do what they do best? Always a win!)
Before: Lacking Functionality & Personalization
This was one of those projects where we touched almost every single space in the home. In fact, it was so massive that we’re photographing it 3 years after we presented it! A reminder that good things take time. (Fun fact: This was Kennedi’s first whole-home project, fondly dubbed her “first baby.”)
Let’s take a look at how things started…
When we first walked through the home, we could see why our clients felt frustrated and ready for a change. Dysfunctional layouts, awkward columns & a bland impersonal color scheme were obvious pain points, but we saw potential in each space.
We mixed & matched our services to give our clients exactly what they wanted and needed. Luxe 3D was the right option for most of the main spaces, while add-on drawings & 2D were perfect for some smaller spaces. The couple also opted to Shop the Showroom (so smart!) and selected lots of custom furniture, though the entire project included a mix of custom and retail to stay within their desired investment.
The result? We breathed new life into SO many rooms, including the kitchen and breakfast nook, living room, den, primary suite, powder room, butler’s pantry, foyer, mudroom, & club room — and our team & the family are thrilled with the outcome!
A Sophisticated Kitchen & Breakfast Nook
I think we can all agree that there is nothing bland about this kitchen now! (Seriously, scroll up to those “before” photos again…) It feels sophisticated, bright and open with the elegant masculine vibe the couple wanted. They had told us that their dream kitchen included plenty of countertop space for them to cook together as a family and no barricades blocking the view of other spaces. Check & check!
In the center of the kitchen sits a huge island, perfect for family gatherings. We selected a light natural stone & a waterfall top for drama. The island’s size is offset by large brass light fixtures filling the space.
Two-tone cabinets create the high contrast aesthetic the couple desired. & would you believe that we didn’t use any paint? We achieved this look by staining the super durable Euro White oak cabinets – even the ebony cabinets are stained.
Shown left, the massive vent hood is a stunning standout feature, & it was custom made by a local metalsmith. We love how it ties in perfectly with the kitchen’s masculine dark features and contrast, & it adds a distinctive character that is all their own.
On the right… what kitchen design is complete without a coffee bar? We designed this easily accessible area with peekaboo retractable doors that can remain closed when it’s not in use to keep a streamlined appearance. Next to the coffee bar are custom ebony-stained arch top cabinet insets with mesh detail. They add just the right amount of visual interest & prevent the kitchen from being overwhelmingly wood. Gorgeous!
Just off the kitchen is this sweet & sunny breakfast nook. Glass pendant lights and the soft colors of the table, chairs, and art create a soothing, airy feel. The family can gather here, enjoy breakfast and chat together for a pleasant start to a busy day.
High Contrast Living Room
Their dark-and-light color scheme continues into the living room, making this space both energizing and relaxing. Our clients were specific with their intentions for this space. They said that even though it has a TV, it is not “the TV room.” Instead, they plan to use this room for homework, playing family games, or popping their feet up with a cocktail (the adults, at least) & a book.
The couple opted to use Shop the Showroom for all the furniture in this space, which we balanced by saving on accessories… & that furniture was totally worth the splurge! Handsome custom leather sofas offer the ultimate in comfort and room for the whole family to gather.
We redesigned the fireplace, refacing it and giving it a new modern look. We chose to treat it with a subtle texture that provides just the right amount of interest. Brass lighting, tables, & accessories tie the design together.
And for some drama, take a look at these gorgeous arched built-in bookshelves, tying in with the kitchen cabinetry arches. Beautiful backlighting from the brass sconces really make the decor items on the shelves pop. Between the sofas, we selected a large low table, the perfect practical surface for homework or board games. Nearby, we’ll find the…
Cozy & Comfortable Den
Unlike the main living area, the couple wanted their den to be a casual and cozy spot to curl up as a family and watch TV. They chose to Shop the Showroom for this super comfy sectional sofa, & I know they’ll have zero regrets – it will be comfortable and supportive for years to come.
In this space, we added a softer color palette, wallpaper for interest & texture, and ceiling beams for even more coziness. Many snuggly movie nights are yet to come!
Soothing Primary Bedroom
After a hectic workday, shuffling kids to & from sports, and managing dinner and homework, these busy parents get to finally exhale when they step into their soothing primary bedroom. Can you feel the inner peace, too? To me, this room feels like a soft, gentle hug, encouraging them to unwind & release stress. Ahhh.
The original space had large built-ins spanning the entire wall and anchoring the bed… which we demoed to give the room a more calm and streamlined look. We kept the original bed and designed everything to match, hanging pendants & large art to help the space feel full.
The couple’s two big requests were beautiful yet functional window coverings & textured wallpaper somewhere. We delivered on both! We selected appropriately sized drapery that immediately softens the large window wall, and the couple can easily open & close them for quick light control. The textured wallpaper adds warmth and interest, making this room cozy & relaxing.
Modern & Elegant Primary Bathroom
This primary bathroom received a huge structural transformation. (I highly suggested scrolling back up to the before photo!) The original space had a tub and wall awkwardly located right in the middle of the room, & the layout just wasn’t working. Our challenge was to redesign the room and make space for a tub & a large shower without moving the original windows.
As you can see, the result is absolutely dreamy! & so smart. We positioned the tub and shower side by side, creatively using the edge of the tub as a shower bench. This allowed us to give the couple the largest shower possible. We specified 2 shower heads & designed vertical shelves to maximize the storage our clients desired. It’s the perfect, refreshing space to start or end the day.
The stone in this bathroom is gorgeous, but to keep it from making the room feel cold & overwhelming, we added warm wood ceiling detail, subtly reminiscent of an indulgent spa or sauna.
And opposite the shower and tub is the beautiful floating vanity, upping the space’s modern vibe even more. The couple wanted black counters accented with light stone & brass details to keep the bathroom feeling upscale. With thick countertops, perfectly mixed metals, and stunning hanging sconces, I’d say we hit the luxury bathroom nail on the head!
Luxurious Minimalist Club Room
Well, my friends, I saved the best for last! This room was a tail-end add-on, & it is absolutely the showstopper. The couple wanted to entertain & make cocktails in a space with a high end vibe, so we created this stunning room filled with understated opulence – a modernized speakeasy, if you will. I’ll take a gin & tonic, please!
While the couple chose our Luxe 3D service for most spaces in the home, this Club room was a 2D project. (Service offerings here for context.) We kept the original wall trim and added fresh paint, & added the bar with custom ribbed wood detail.
Take a closer look & you’ll find metallic shimmery wallpaper rich with warmth, coziness, and a sexy glam vibe. And did you see the patterned floor? The couple requested this detail, & it adds such a fun layer of interest.
We designed custom brass shelving for liquor, keeping the bar area feeling airy & open. And the sprinkled brass accents in the fixtures and lighting add just the right amount of shine to keep the space feeling luxurious yet minimalist. In short, this space is to die for!
The Verdict is In…
You can probably tell that we love this home, but what did the family have to say about it?
“We have moved so many times and have never really felt totally settled. You listened to my needs and wants and even delivered on my pie in the sky hopes. This was a massive undertaking, and we know your expertise got us to the finish line. You heard me, and I am so grateful.”
— The Lamont Home Clients
We love when our clients are so happy! & not long ago, they sent me a picture of their sweet kiddo cooking in the kitchen and said, “A functional, well-used kitchen for kids’ cooking is a perfectly designed kitchen!”
That’s what it’s all about, my friends. Creating personal & beautiful spaces to be used and lived in.
When you’re ready to create fresh, relaxed & meaningful spaces in your home, we’re here to help you, too.
Xo,
Shawna
