Cristina Hadzi Interiors

The tour begins

…This is the first posting in a series about this design project.  See the introduction for an overview of what is to come…

Once you step into the formal entry way straight ahead and two steps down is the family room.  I believe guests will be drawn further into the house by the beautiful views outside the French doors on either side of the fireplace in  this room.

Putting it all together

Above is a still life Richard and Linda shot of the materials and concepts for this room.  A few simple elements tie it together: I began with the rug and the chandelier, above and below, and worked outward from there.  “Carmelina Silk” by The Rug Company has a graceful and free flowing design in a neutral palate, its luxurious softness introduces the comfort level I want throughout the house.  Above, “Lena” the sculptural wrought iron chandelier from Mecox Gardens has a wonderful organic shape and relates well to the lighting in the adjoining rooms (more on those later!)

Directly beneath the chandelier is a stunning large square Italian coffee table whose traditional lines  juxtapose the more casual elements of this room nicely.  Two large roll arm sofas at either side of the coffee table are upholstered in an ultra comfortable cobalt blue chenille; it feels just like a very soft and luxurious sweater!   Since this area is open plan to anchor the seating arrangement we are placing a Barbara Barry étagère behind both sofas.  I particularly love this style’s graceful lines and the practicality it offers with the drawers at the base.

The fireplace, set between a pair of  French doors,  also is a focal point.  The surround is designed in glossy 4” x 4” tiles which pick up the color scheme of the room: calming shades of blue as well as a brown accent.  The clients specified they do not want elaborated window treatments and when there are beautiful vistas I recommend starting with very little and seeing what the requirements are once they have lived in the space for a while.  For this room we will have very simple panels to the floor in a pretty off white cotton with a lively blue design which will also be used for pillows on the sofas.  The pattern reminds me of the delicate pattern on Ming vases. In a far corner I am placing a comfortable arm chair with an ottoman that welcomes  a quiet moment to read a favorite book.  Across the way in the other corner the clients’ upright piano fits perfectly.

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