Enduring Tradition
A Long Grove Couple Envision a New Home that Stands the Test of Time Yet Suits their Active Family Lifestyle
Amid its pristine countryside landscape and plush green lawn, this sprawling Long Grove dwelling poses a stately demeanor from the winding private drive. The home’s classic architecture emanates a pure reflection of the homeowners’ preferred traditional style.
Nestled on a private acreage with a pond in Long Grove, Illinois, this gracious dwelling is the perfect fit for a tradition-loving couple and their four children. Favoring timeless beauty to modern trends, the homeowners wanted classic interiors and furnishings that could withstand the test of time but also endure their family’s busy lifestyle.
This project involved a major renovation and addition, so basically, it was like building a new home. When I was approached to design the interiors, my husband was very ill at the time, and our firm simply could not take on the task. So, the homeowners hired another designer and, halfway through the project, became disenchanted with the results. But they didn’t give up and approached me again. This time, the timing was right, and we gladly accepted.
We jumped in and assisted with the design of the millwork details—primarily the wainscoting—and adjusted a few construction details that were still changeable. We also selected the paint colors, the cabinet hardware, the wall coverings, and all the furnishings throughout. We even brought in our trusted tradespeople and craftsmen to modify some prior work that did not meet the homeowners’ expectations.
The graceful silhouette of a round pedestal table lends an impactful focal point to the elegant marble-floored foyer. Its beautifully centered symmetry guides the eye to the gorgeous landscape views beyond. A striking cobalt blue urn amplifies the home’s blue-tinged palette that appears in nearly every room.
FOYER GRANDEUR
The refined elegance of the foyer sets the tone for this classic traditional home. Upon entering, guests get a first glimpse of the understated beauty that unfolds room by room. Of course, it evolved a bit while we searched for that one ‘wow’ fabric, which we found from Lee Jofa and used on our updated version of a wing back chair. This spectacular space introduces the clients’ home, so we wanted it to be inviting and sophisticated, including the stunning introduction artwork that visually brings the outdoors in.
Magnificent oversize doors reiterate the grand scale of the foyer and its soaring ceiling height. A sparkling crystal chandelier creates a refined first impression with just the right touch of glamour.
The living room takes your breath away with its lush, sweeping views of the surrounding property. The room’s tranquil blue and white palette generates an ideal backdrop, allowing the extraordinary outdoor view to take center stage.
GRACIOUS LIVING
Because the formal living area is adjacent to the foyer, we wanted these two spaces to complement each other well. So we designed a gorgeous area rug through Julie Dasher rugs that makes an impactful yet quiet statement when guests enter the room. The linear wall molding brings an exquisite traditional enhancement to the elegant formality of the room, and dark wood accents punctuate the serene palette without overwhelming the space. A delicate crystal chandelier crowns the majestic, vaulted ceiling, illuminating the room’s bright white presence.
Blue and white patterned accents such as the draperies, bench upholstery, throw pillows, and a pair of ginger jars flanking an oil painting of a swan on the water bring a lovely balance to the room’s neutral tones.
SATISFYING SYMMETRY
Part of the home’s traditional appeal comes from the pleasing symmetry applied throughout. This quaint living room vignette demonstrates the technique with its perfectly centered and beautifully balanced aesthetic. In addition, the harmonious scale and proportion of the furnishings together form an impeccable composition.
The formal dining room includes a generous table that can seat up to 12 guests. The cozy environment provides a warm and inviting place for family gatherings and entertaining.
UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE
The couple wanted an elegant formal dining space for entertaining friends and hosting intimate family gatherings. The soft palette of their home continues in this room and provides a gorgeous contrast to the dark wood furnishings and hardwood floors. Crystal candle holders scattered across a linen table runner make an elegant complement to the graceful curves of the pair of white chandeliers overhead.
A trio of pendant lights accents an oversized island perfect for quick meals and entertaining. Capturing beautiful outdoor views, the kitchen is the heart of the home, where everyone loves to gather.
SUN-FILLED SIMPLICITY
We designed the kitchen to be a bright space that overlooks the pool, where mom can keep an eye on teenage boys when needed. The large island is perfect for their family, and the adjacent breakfast table also makes a cozy spot for evening meals. We love the tile backsplash we installed with contrasting grout—it gave the kitchen just the punch it needed!
The family room emits another pleasing element of symmetry with matching custom chests strategically placed to soften the fireplace wall and television. Echoing the tranquility of the living room, a pair of graceful bird paintings provide a restful complement while bringing a bit of the outdoors inside.
FAMILY TIME
Just off the kitchen, the casual family room emanates a laid-back vibe for relaxing and entertaining. The previously remodeled fireplace design dictated the location of the TV, which was a bit higher than any of us would have liked it to be. So, we needed to select furniture with high backs for neck support to watch television. We also chose a large, comfy ottoman that accommodates many feet.
The master bedroom’s soaring ceilings are embellished with millwork that creates beautiful visual interest. A textural silk wallpaper wraps the room in tranquil luxury.
RHAPSODY IN BLUE
The couple’s love of the color blue makes the master bedroom feel very peaceful and restful. My favorite elements are the gorgeous silk wallpaper and Gracie Studio wall panels. This bedroom is a space we continue to tweak a bit. Sometimes things evolve along the way, and we will be embarking on a few changes to this room. For example, we plan to relocate the area rug to the adjoining sunroom and design a new one for the bedroom that feels quieter and has more of a washed, aged feel.
The floral-themed patterned bedding echoes the beautiful botanical painting that decorates a quiet corner in the master bedroom. An elegant x-leg bench makes a shapely accent piece. We think the bench is the perfect foundation for the Gracie Studio wall panel.
FLORAL FINESSE
The lovely powder room is one of my favorites in the home. Here, we selected a sweet, floral-patterned wallcovering and a curvaceous ornate mirror to complement the stylish custom cabinetry. We also added a vintage area rug that befits the style of the wallpaper.
FOREVER HOME
We were so privileged to become a part of this couple’s project mid-way through the construction process. True traditionalists, they wanted a home that would endure over time and live well for their busy family. So we made selections that provided perfect living spaces for their children and their adorable dog—fabrics that would wear well, floor space for brothers wrestling, and lots of windows to take in the natural splendor of the property. It was also essential to create entertaining areas that were beautiful and timeless. I am happy to say they now love their forever home.
