Before we head off to Philly, I wanted to post a shoot from last week ! I have been wanting to post this install since Christmas, but we had a few last minute things to wrap up. Then I was stuck at home recouping from a little minor surgery and couldn't really move at the pace I am use to. A photo shoot takes a lot work if you haven't been apart of one... fluffing, shifting for the best shot, flowers, details - it's involved and doing that on crutches was a no go. But ... now I have a new assistant and I broke her in on this shoot helping me get it ready for Mekenzie. Thanks Morgan !!
A little back story on this couple . . . Sal and Lalaina Kafiti live in Elizabeth in an adorable bungalow. They called last fall and needed my help with the renovation of their kitchen - which lead to finishing off the first floor of there house. They have been a dream to work with and happy to say we have become friends. Also got to work with an amazing group of craftsmen in the kitchen, Johnson Custom Cabinets - great new resource for cabinetry.
So, starting at the front door I wanted to create a colorful, multi-culture inspired space filled with interesting pieces, textures, fabrics and papers. Something for the eye at every turn. Where did I start ? I assessed the pieces she had and the first thing we kept - a navy sofa. This one piece did affect the color choices through. Luckily they did not want an all white kitchen and navy is a great cabinet color - so we had a starting point. The living room opens to a sitting room and dining room and while I wanted it cohesive, I did create a look for each space. Take a look at my inspiration boards. . . and the finished product!
We completely changed the old brick fireplace which looked really heavy and added a new, modern, light tile from floor to ceiling. Two new chairs with brass arms and a few of Windy O'Connor pillows.
Love the new inlay chest and a big fan favorite - the coffee table with inlay top over brass base.
Such pretty details in this space !
As you turn around from the fireplace in the living room you look into the sitting room. I kept the fabulous black and white F. Schumacher wall paper they had. I worked around that by adding neutral pieces that all made a statement. The sitting room compliments the colorful living room perfectly without being too busy.
Is this not the most amazing lamp !
We had fun in the dining room adding a big pop of color in the nook. A Lindsay Cowles wall paper did the trick. We tweaked the colors a bit and when that paper went up it completely came to life. With the existing window seat, I decided to off set the dining table and chandelier to create a bigger walkway toward the kitchen.
I love the way this new double sided bar fits in the space. Doors on both sides the perfect landing space for drinks and such !
The master bedroom is dreamy. Off the sitting room, it's an eclectic combination of pieces that all speak to each other creating a vibe for sure ! A new upholstered bed with a gorgeous nail head detail. I used navy and brought the pop of colors back in the rug. This killer Kate Spade one . . . LOVE. Mixing the side tables in like materials with a sconce on one side and a pendant on the there. Such a cozy space !
Through the dining room you hit the new kitchen and family room !! I wish I had a before picture of this kitchen... I think there must have been a couple of young fraternity boys that lived in this house... it was crazy bad. I couldn't wait to gut it and create something livable and pretty !!
All new everything.
And lastly the family room off the kitchen.
A small new powder room with floater sink and floor to ceiling tile.
all photos by Mekenzie Loli
Such a fun and colorful house !
