At a time when the entire world is going green and less has become more, baby-boomer empty nesters and families with college bound offspring are taking a fresh look at their living arrangements. A concept that embraces not wanting to sacrifice quality for quantity or the abandonment of necessary amenities, strategic downsizing has picked up quite a following these last few years, and it no longer carries a negative connotation. Perhaps we are realizing that industrial size kitchens and banquet hall dining rooms are not all that practical, or that the living room hardly ever gets utilized, or that the attic/exercise room/TV room has really become 1,000+ square feet of expensive carpeting used primarily for change of season clothes, holiday decorations and let's face it, all the things we should throw away and still have not got around to yet. So, paring down, if you will, can be a very invigorating experience, but keeping your scaling down to discrete proportions is not an easy task.
Twice, our feature story family hired Annmarie Ruta of Elegant Interior Designs, Inc. The first time to complete a renovation and redesigning of their original center hall colonial. Just as soon as their first home was completed, the family decided they wanted new construction and began planning for a new residence. They decided upon a smaller blueprint, and soon construction was on its way. As plans started to take shape, the home became a bit larger and room sizes were not nearly as scaled down as they planned at the start, yet the home maintained its comfortable and welcoming size. "Having been through the entire design process previously with this family, I was very comfortable in the knowledge of the owner's style and preferences," says Annmarie. "I feel as if I am part of the family and I value and respect the trust they have placed in me over the years. I enjoy both the personal and business relationship we share."
This custom home is formidable in its design and detail. A grand, two-story entry is accentuated with a deep-toned hardwood circular staircase, a magnificent crystal chandelier, and panel moldings. Deep shine porcelain floors with Noce marble drop-ins are finely displayed, for a true European ambiance. The family enjoys the spectacular gourmet kitchen with an 11-foot center island and a formal eat-in area. Knowing how the large family gathers together for many occasions, Annmarie recommended the space remain open to be functional for entertaining. The butler's pantry nestled between the kitchen and formal dining room serves many purposes. A coffee station was designed for guests to enjoy various blends of coffee. Deep cherry cabinetry, expansive earth-toned granite, other stone, and detailed lighting are handsomely displayed.
An adjoining family room is elegantly furnished with a custom-made wall unit, lavishly upholstered seating and deep russet colored walls. The dining room features architecturally-detailed molding encompassing the ceiling and walls. Gleaming mahogany furniture also graces the room. The living room is perfect for entertaining, not least because of its clustered seating areas. A custom upholstered settee, guest chairs and a separate area for the pub table and stools lend comfort to the otherwise formal space. Warm tones and antique gold accents present a thoroughly traditional feel. The old-world powder room is also impressive, with marble mosaic half walls and intricately carved vanity.
It was important to the owners that their original provincial bedroom furniture be worked into the décor of the master suite, though a plush seating area was added for comfort. The master bathroom is formal and elegant, with dark emperador and crema marfil marble walls; the flooring and shower area are a combination of both marbles in mosaic form. The family's college son's bedroom is handsomely treated with fine mahogany furnishings, green and brown fabrics, and soft green wall tones. Each guest bedroom offers plush accommodations in traditional style and furnishings.
"The designing and decorating of this home was truly a pleasure," states Ruta. "A big part of the process is getting to know your clients and understanding their priorities and expectations. Although I had previous insight, I did not want the home to repeat anything from the original residence; I had to stay true to the owner's traditional style and preference." The result is a beautifully appointed, well-planned residence that is second to none in comfort or luxury.
Annmarie Ruta of Elegant Interiors Designs, Inc. offers consultation services for interior and exterior design, interior decorating, space planning and layout. 718-556-9184 or 917-294-4100.
E-mail at Décor 614@aol.com
