This laidback abode stemmed from a simple sofa inquiry and evolved into a comprehensive new-build home design. Through meticulous attention to detail, Hackett House Studio incorporated bespoke craftsmanship, from custom steel doors to vintage-inspired furnishings, while navigating real-life practicality to deliver a timeless, lived-in, and welcoming home – a hallmark of their studio’s aesthetic. Take the tour and read about this home’s creation in the story below.
From the designer… I like to tell people that this new build project all started with a single sofa. I was initially engaged on this project because the client came to me wanting help with selecting a sectional for their living room. Following the initial design consultation, I was hired to design the client’s dream new build home from top to bottom. At the onset of this project, I spent a lot of time understanding my clients’ lifestyles and preferences while collaborating closely with the architect during the floor plan development phase. As designers, we pose unique questions distinct from architects, enabling us to provide valuable recommendations shaped by client perspectives.
In this case, my clients, a young professional couple with three boys under four years old, presented specific lifestyle needs during our comprehensive onboarding process. Recognizing that the original architectural plans overlooked accommodating the desired sofa size for their family, I suggested the removal of a wall. This adjustment created a great room that not only enhanced the overall visual design but also seamlessly aligned with the practical aspects of my clients’ daily lives.
The kitchen was designed around the client’s desire to incorporate the 48” ILVE Nostalgie Dual Fuel Range in glossy black with brass trim. Nathalia Ondulato marble used throughout the kitchen complemented the fixtures and was carried through the dining room on a custom two-toned built-in.
The great room, tailored for my clients who have young children and enjoy entertaining, presented an opportunity to create another standout feature and design solution: the inclusion of a butler’s pantry. I selected classic design elements for the butler’s pantry, incorporating dark soapstone countertops, a vertical tongue-and-groove backsplash painted in Benjamin Moore Creamy White to match the custom cabinetry, and 18×18 square ivory/calacatta tile laid in a checkered pattern. The added cabinetry, expansive countertop space, prep sink, and beverage refrigerator offer a concealed party prep area, ensuring the kitchen remains tidy while hosting guests.
As I approached the furniture design and styling for this project, I felt strongly about creating a juxtaposition of old and new to create a timeless aesthetic that felt lived-in even though the home was brand new. Where you see modern finishes, you’ll always see a balance of true vintage or vintage-influenced furnishings and decor. This is apparent throughout the entire home, but in the master bathroom for example, introducing a vintage rug provides a striking contrast to modern tile and lighting, adding character and depth.
One of the most enjoyable spaces to design with my clients was their powder bathroom. Positioned opposite the mudroom, we incorporated striking elements, including a wall-mounted marble sink with a brass console stand, Linden Flower wallpaper from York Wallcoverings, complemented by Benjamin Moore Dark Olive vertical millwork. Charming details like Palazzo 12″ x 12″ Decorative Tile and Merri Wall Sconces by Mitzi completed the room, all with the aim of leaving a lasting impression on my clients’ guests.
In the primary bathroom, I worked with my clients to strike a balance between high-end and budget-friendly materials. For example, the large-format Bianco Orion Polished Marble floor tiles from Floor & Decor were less than $8 per square foot, while the shower floor features a more luxurious Iceberg Dolomite Loft Polished Marble Mosaic by Maravilla. While all the cabinetry is custom, I selected a budget-friendly, yet elegant quartz countertop. The selection of grasscloth wallpaper from Annie Selke kept the square, primary bedroom without many architectural features from feeling like a drywall box. To keep things budget friendly, we sourced throw pillows and blankets from etsy, including an Indian kantha quilt in a beautiful burgundy floral pattern. Simple beige linen pinch pleat curtains add softness around a 10’ x 10’ picture window.
In terms of standout moments, I pride myself on collaborating with local vendors who share my passion for embracing bespoke craftsmanship, and the office was the perfect place to incorporate a custom design element. Local craftsman Edgework Creative created custom steel doors with fluted, frosted glass, a unique design feature while providing the perfect amount of privacy for our client who works from home. The paint, Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams, and The Charlton Large Triple Arm Chandelier by Aerin complemented the custom doors.
Each and every project we work on comes with its unique set of challenges. Every detail matters, and it’s part of my job to remain flexible and to adapt when unforeseen circumstances arise. This home was built during the pandemic, so we navigated unprecedented new build construction challenges, including assisting the family in navigating pandemic-related delays and fluctuating lumber costs, while collaborating efficiently with the architect to revise floor plans.
Like what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Hackett House Studio · Photography: Folchi Creative · Architect: Milhoan Architects · Builder: Justin Hochstetler
