By Lisa Tharp
With grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of landscape architecture, this 1890's stone + shingle carriage house has been thoughtfully restored and expanded as a primary residence.
The interior architecture/design plan included a new kitchen, custom built-ins, antique castle doors from Europe, and chalky plaster walls that complement stone and herringbone floors. Scope encompassed complete renovation of original 19th century structure, with its two-story turret, as well as a major rear addition. New family room, entertainment / home office space, garage bays, rear kitchenette and outdoor shower overlook the new stone terrace and pool. This special project is the result of close collaboration with client, architect and builder.
Architectural details stand in quiet relief to the luxuriously simple palette of materials. Soft blues and white dress a first floor bedroom with views of beautiful old trees. New wardrobe is recessed into the plaster. Its antiqued mirrors reflect an arched European door. A long built-in banquette, with leather handle storage drawers, overlooks the main staircase. The living room’s tired brick fireplace was skimmed in tonal shades of new plaster.
A sweet bedroom enveloped in amethyst grasscloth and hand-printed patterns is tucked under eaves at the upper turret. Soft graphic wallpaper enhances a bathroom with preserved beam. Ochre and mesh cabinets organize the new mudroom.