New Construction
My first official design project was the design of our home. It started with finding the right piece of property, as we wanted our main floor to walk out to a back patio with pool. I always loved the southern way of incorporating indoor and outdoor living, but had to be practical given that our home was in Pittsburgh. The final result is a home that feels like a ski lodge, but also incorporates the best of indoor and outdoor living. One of the best compliments we’ve received was: “You use every inch of your home. It is so warm and inviting, and still every space is practical and functional for your family.” After finding the right piece of property, I started sketching out the floorplan we wanted which was completely open, with all main rooms on the first floor including the master bedroom, bath and office. Every detail in this house, down to the wrought iron floor grates, has been selected by me. It has felt like “home” since the day we moved in, and when we aren't traveling, it is our favorite place to be.
Dining Room
The main reason we ended up building a home versus buying was because we felt strongly that we did not want a separate, formal dining room that was used twice a year on holidays. Finding a home where all main rooms were incorporated into one space was impossible in Pittsburgh so we began the building process. Despite one large space, the kitchen, dining room and living room still have defined areas separated by exposed brick arches. Our builder hadn’t done arches like this before, but I was able to show him pictures of an old farmhouse in France that had exposed brick arches and asked him to replicate as closely as he could. We were thrilled with the result as it continues the repeating theme of brick, stone and cedar both on the exterior and interior of the house. Also, incorporated throughout the entire first floor (minus the kitchen) are wide-plank maple floors stained dark instead of the traditional light that you typically see for maple.
Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of every home and that is no exception here. The design was deliberate as we entertain a lot. The countertops are concrete and the main sink was placed in the island so that the cook is always a part of the action even when preparing food or cleaning up afterwards. Family and guests can pull right up to the island to eat or socialize and are comfortable in stools from Grand-in-Road. A bump out with a round table and chairs is available for more intimate dinners with just the family. A glass table was chosen for this space to lighten things up as there is a lot of heavy woods and stones used throughout the kitchen and dining room. The cabinets are a mix of glass, open shelving and closed cabinetry so that clutter doesn’t take over hiding behind closed doors. This forces a more organized approach in the kitchen. Cedar details repeat around the oven hood and over the doorway that leads to the pantry and laundry room.
Anchoring the great room is a two-story stone fireplace that can be seen from the kitchen. A wall of windows brings the outdoors in to contribute to the feeling of indoor/outdoor living. Comfortable furniture (some slipcovered for easy cleaning), linen curtains and jute rugs make this an ideal space for entertaining and a busy household that includes two dogs and two young children.
The Great Room
Bar & Gameroom
When the home was built the only room that was finished on the lower level was a workout room. Several years later we began the process of finishing the space. My husband wanted a room that felt like "wine or cigar bar" and that would be great for entertaining. Wood paneling, and stacked stone on a curved bar and walls, all contribute to this atmosphere. This floor includes a bar, wine bar, living area with state of the art technology and sound for music, sports and movie viewing. A full bathroom, a guest bedroom, workout room and storage make it an ideal space not only for entertaining, but for overnight guests.
The secret to a happy marriage in this household is a husband and wife with separate bathrooms! Because of that, the master bath is my domain and the one space in the house that is distinctly feminine. Slate was used for both the floor and Jacuzzi tub surround which still brings in the earthy vibe. But the details like curved arches, artwork and accessories are all feminine.
Master Bath
Guest Bath & Powder Room
Guest baths are the place to express your creativity because they are the places most seen by visitors to your home. Unique touches like a hammered steel sink, faucets coming out of the wall, and fun, interesting mirrors and artwork make a space beautiful and fun.
Make your guests feel extra special in a space that shows you went the extra mile for them. Beautiful linens, a space to sit and put their belongings, and accessories to polish the look accomplish this. This room has access directly from the outdoors so durable flooring and an outdoor area rug are practical, but still lovely in the space.
Guest Bedroom
Your foyer shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should be a beautiful welcome to your guests, but also a practical space for storage and getting you and your family in and out of the house. A bench and antique dresser take care of the practical while artwork and family photos take center stage.
Foyer
