A few years ago, I received an unexpected call from past clients of mine, with whom I had worked on a couple of previous homes. Our first collaboration was their very first home together in Venice, CA—a modern townhouse with its own unique charm. We had a blast blending their love for modern, colorful furnishings with the art deco-inspired details of the space. The mix of industrial touches and mid-century elements added an extra layer of personality, creating a home that was fun, vibrant, and a little chaotic—much like the early days of a relationship. It was their first home, and they loved every inch of it.

A few years later, they reached out again, this time for a newly built townhome in Manhattan Beach, designed and constructed by RJ Smith Construction. The home was the quintessential luxe beach townhome—sleek, modern, and boasting a to-die-for view. But despite all the high-end amenities and style, it didn’t feel like their home until we had the chance to collaborate again. Together, we infused the space with their signature California laid-back style, adding playful wallpapers and vibrant colors that perfectly captured the easygoing Southern California vibe. Around this time, they had also welcomed a Golden Retriever puppy named Moose into their family, adding even more joy to their already lively and dynamic home.

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I wasn’t sure when I’d hear from them again, they were thriving and settling into their dream home as young, successful professionals. But as we all know, life is ever-changing, and they called once more, this time with some big news to share. Baby #2 was on the way, and they were preparing to leave their California roots behind to embark on a new adventure across the country to New York. Big changes, to say the least!

They let me know they were planning to build their dream home in the heart of Saratoga Springs, NY, an area known for its rich horse racing history and charming small-town atmosphere. The husband had grown up nearby, and they wanted to raise their own family there, surrounded by forests, fireflies, and the kind of tranquility that only the Northeast can offer.

The Vision: Spaces to Entertain and Relax

From the start, our clients envisioned a home that would effortlessly host friends and family yet still feel inviting for their own busy lifestyle. With two young children, a couple of dogs, and frequent work travel, they needed thoughtfully designed spaces that served their day-to-day needs without sacrificing style. They wanted a retreat, a haven to grow in, relax, and create lasting memories for many years to come, and that’s exactly what we set out to design.  We began our process by defining how the spaces would be used, considering the activities that would keep them engaged through every season of life. Let’s dive in and start with the Living and Dining room.

While these two rooms may traditionally be considered formal, we’ve intentionally crafted them to be both inviting and functional. Located to the right upon entering the home, the living room is designed to embrace the natural beauty of the Northeast. Wall treatments of antiqued mirrors reflect both the abundant natural light and the surrounding nature, creating a serene and open atmosphere. To complement the reflective surfaces, we introduced a natural grasscloth wallcovering, which adds warmth and dimension, balancing the sleek mirror with its tactile richness. Drapery featuring a whimsical cloud pattern, along with soft, neutral fabrics and accents of emerald green velvets, create the perfect juxtaposition of materials. This blend of formal and relaxed elements coexist effortlessly, embodying the feel our clients desired.

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As we transition into the family room, the design continues to play with materials and patterns, creating a seamless flow from room to room. The striking geometric wallpaper adds a modern touch, while the smooth, plastered fireplace, designed to evoke the look of carved stone, introduces a layer of subtle dimension and depth that draws the eye. It’s a perfect balance of clean lines and organic warmth. The custom-built bookcase serves as a dynamic feature, offering a personal space to showcase cherished family photos and treasures, allowing the room to remain a living, breathing reflection of the family’s journey together.

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It’s often said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and in this case, that sentiment rings true. The kitchen truly embodies this notion, showcasing a stunning La Cornue Chateau series range, a statement piece that blends classic elegance and culinary prestige. Modern chef’s appliances, including the sleek Elkay water dispenser, Meile coffee maker, and warming drawer, elevate the kitchen’s functionality, making it a perfect fusion of style and convenience. Centrally located, the kitchen features a spacious island that serves as the ultimate multifunctional hub. Whether it’s a casual spot for the kids to dine, a cozy corner for date-night drinks, or a gathering place for friends and family during entertaining, this kitchen is designed to accommodate every need with grace and ease.

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Upstairs, we’ve crafted a playroom straight out of a dream. Spacious and versatile, it’s designed to entertain little ones for hours. There’s a jungle gym for active play, a cozy seating area for adults to tuck into for storytime, and a playtable for hours of racetrack adventures. A dedicated reading nook invites quiet moments to curl up with a book. To bring the space to life, we selected a whimsical wallcovering featuring make-believe animals, which sets the tone for a world of imagination. The playful rainbow hues are echoed in the FLOR carpet tiles, which not only add a vibrant pop of color but are also practical and easily replaceable should any spills, like a wayward Kool-Aid accident, occur. This room is as functional as it is fun, a space to learn, laugh, and play.

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Next we arrive at the lower level, where two standout spaces, the media room and a SoulCycle-inspired gym, take center stage. With the long, chilly winters of the Northeast, having in-home entertainment options like these becomes essential for staying cozy and connected through the season.

The media room is enveloped in a rich, chocolate-colored paint and acoustic fabric walls, creating a warm, immersive atmosphere that beckons you to sink into the luxurious velvet green sectional and settle in for a movie marathon. Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood - wall sconces evoking the shape of vinyl records add a playful yet sophisticated touch, complementing the room's relaxed vibe. And as a surprise detail, the landscape-patterned walls in the background conceal a putting green, ideal for a quick round of golf during movie credits or entertainment intermissions.

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After indulging in a movie marathon, it’s time to get off the sofa and into the home gym,  where design and fitness goals meet in the most stylish way. The space is wrapped in smoke-stained acoustic wood panels which create a sense of warmth and depth. The ceiling is a showstopper, featuring a dark wood veneer wallcovering in a bold geometric pattern, accented with subtle gold details for a touch of glam. A full wall is dedicated to a backlit mirror, with rope lighting glowing from the edges, casting a soft, motivating ambiance. The floor is finished with antimicrobial cork in a natural hue, tying together the gold accents in the ceiling while offering a sustainable, high-performance surface. This gym is designed to elevate your workout experience, whether you're cycling to your favorite beats or pushing yourself to the limit.

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Designing a custom home is always a rewarding experience, but some projects stand out for their creativity, collaboration, and unforgettable results. Over the past three years, we had the pleasure of working with a wonderful family to create their dream home, a space designed to entertain, unwind, and grow together. This stunning residence in Saratoga Springs, NY beautifully balances warmth, sophistication, and functionality. Every corner of this home reflects the family’s dynamic lifestyle, creating a haven that will continue to nurture memories for years to come. Professional photography by Elizabeth Haynes captures the home beautifully, showcasing its thoughtful design and unforgettable details. Be sure to follow us on social media to see more of this exceptional project!

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