an austin family's bold, bright space

Inspired, colorful and collected. Mixed, not matched.

Unlike with client projects, I had no true plan. Once I got over the initial paralysis of facing myself as a client (torture!), I just had fun watching each gut decision unfold. So the fact that colors fell into place somewhat cohesively was a miracle.

The dark walls were a spontaneous decision made when the painters arrived. I sort of panicked at the thought of more “warm white,” so I jumped to the other end of the spectrum. As for advice: commit fully and then contrast! Paint the whole room instead of just an accent wall, then allow the dark paint to be a backdrop for fresh drapery and artwork.

Don’t be shy. As we all know, paint packs the biggest punch. If you’re skittish, pick a smaller room or nook and do all walls (even ceilings) with a super saturated color or wallpaper. Dining rooms, small offices and powder rooms beg for this kind of drama.

My favorite pieces are the ones with some soul. My grandmother’s mirror hangs in our entry, and my husband’s granny’s chairs are in our living room - now in hot pink tweed.

Absolutely! I was raised in Dallas in a traditional home, and my mom is a whiz at layering fabrics (of course, a bit more cabbage roses and checks). I have spent my adult life in New York and Austin gaining more appreciation for the edgy, organic and irreverent sides of design. I think all aspects are reflected in my style and sensibility: bold and contemporary, but rooted in tradition.

Probably redoing the original 1950s bathrooms. Powder baths are the perfect place to take risks. Oh, and watching my husband come home to black walls that day was pretty entertaining.

Isn’t it always budget?! I also found the open floorpan a challenge: You start pulling that string in the living room, and it unravels the dining, family, entry, kitchen….next thing you know you’re redoing the kids’ bath and recovering a dog bed.

Specifically: Delegate a jumping off point, whether it’s a fabric, wallpaper or piece of art that you love. For me, it was the Penguin wallpaper in my powder bath. Then pull colors from it in upholstery pieces and accent fabrics…without being too matchy, of course. Follow your gut, not trends. Remember: your house is a home, not a showroom. Have fun!