Cory Connor Designs took a bold leap into moody sophistication with this stunning family room in Harding, New Jersey. Captured beautifully by Laura Moss and styled by Anna Molvik, the space features rich, enveloping colors and striking architectural details that balance drama with cozy comfort. This transformation proves that a fearless palette and thoughtful design can turn any ordinary room into an unforgettable sanctuary.
From Cory Connor Designs…This project began with a dated, underwhelming family room that lacked personality, cohesion, and architectural interest. The original space didn’t reflect the homeowners’ evolving style or the elegance of the rest of their home. From our first conversation, it was clear she wanted a bold change—something polished yet inviting, with a moodier palette.
Our inspiration came from a desire to embrace depth and drama without compromising comfort. We started by enveloping the room in a richly saturated blue-green paint—applied not just to the walls, but eventually carried across the ceiling, trim, and new built-ins—to create a cocoon-like effect. To elevate the architecture, we added paneling to both the walls and ceiling, which brought dimension and interest to previously flat surfaces.
The ceiling color wasn’t an easy decision. The client was hesitant to go that dark, especially overhead, and ultimately decided to leave the ceiling white. But just two days after the painting was finished, she called and said, “I think you were right—let’s paint the ceiling the same color as the walls.” So we brought the painter back, and the transformation was immediate. Adding color overhead gave the room a much richer, more layered and moody feel that truly completed the space.
We added arched built-ins with a warm wood tone backing for contrast. Soft upholstery in neutral tones ensures comfort, while mauve velvet chairs inject a dose of unexpected glamour. Thoughtful lighting—from the oversized glass chandelier to the brass picture lights—enhances the ambiance and ties it all together.
Discover the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Cory Connor Designs · Photography: Laura Moss · Styling: Anna Molvik
