Photographer Emily Sidoti beautifully captured the minimalist feel of this Connecticut family home, designed by Merrin Jones Interiors. This new-build reflects the clients’ vision for modern luxury in an organic, open-concept space tailored for their growing family. Keep reading to explore this stunning home and hear from Emily herself, as she shares her experience photographing the space and how her goals have shifted during the course of her career.
From the photographer... This project was a new build by Epoch Homes where Merrin Jones Interiors had completed the interior architecture and furnishings. I worked primarily with Merrin while keeping Epoch Homes in mind throughout, trying to capture the spaces in a way that would highlight both of their contributions to the project and provide good content to pitch for editorial. This was my first time working with both of them and my first time working with Kristi Hunter, a fabulous interior and prop stylist. Her confidence and talent creating the finishing touches really helped bring the spaces to life and made the shoot run that much smoother.
Shortly after Merrin reached out about working together, we found out that we were both expecting, me with my first child and her with her second. We bonded over the shared experience and powered through our first shoot together (Part One of this project) while both far along in our pregnancies, my son was born the following month. Being a mom and a business owner has been very challenging at times; from the physical struggles of working through pregnancy and breastfeeding/pumping for my baby during shoots to the mental struggles of not wanting to miss a moment with him particularly at this early stage while he is growing and learning so quickly. I also have so much passion for my profession that I could never imagine giving it up, it’s part of what makes me ‘me’. Despite all the challenges that have come with this new chapter in my life, my son has become a drive to continue to push myself to do better and be better.
From the designer… Merrin Jones Interiors was engaged by our clients in the early stages of the planning process to ensure the execution of the project matched the clear vision they had for it. Marrying the interior architecture and furnishings with the exterior of the home was this young family’s main objective. They wanted their residence to tell a cohesive story of modern luxury with a warm, organic atmosphere.
Bringing this six bedroom, eight bathroom neutral haven to life was truly a collaborative process. As we got to know our clients, we recognized longevity as a top priority. With this in mind, we carefully selected fabrics, finishes and materials that not only complimented their aesthetic, but were durable enough for their growing family of five.
At the heart of the home is the double sided fireplace that lends definition to the open concept floor plan. While minimalist in nature, this focal point packs a major design punch by reimagining materials that are used throughout. We introduced texture by wrapping the fireplace in slatted white oak and anchored it with natural edge stone for depth. As consistent with the entire home, these subtle variations tell a story of simplicity that is unexpectedly impactful.
My goal now is not only to create beautiful images for my clients but also to be a role model for my son to alway do what makes you happy, follow your dreams, and push yourself to be the best you can be.
-Emily Sidoti
Like what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Photography: Emily Sidoti Photography · Interior Design: Merrin Jones Interiors · Stylist: Kristi Hunter · Builder: Epoch Homes
