When homeowner Stephanie Owen moved back home to Seattle, she knew what kind of house she was looking for. “I wanted the quality and style of a John Buchan home, so when this one came on the market in an older neighborhood with only one previous owner, I knew it was the right fit.”
Owen wanted to lean into the best of the architectural features of the house, preserving and expanding on the millwork and moldings, arched doorways, and brick elements. Letting the existing home be her guide, Owen brought on Emily Ruff of Cohesively Curated to help her explore the possibilities of timeless and classic design. “I like the idea of a home that transcends a specific era. Design that made aesthetic sense 100 years ago and will still make sense 100 years from now,” said Owen.
Owen’s specifically wanted the 55-inch Lacanche double-oven cooker and stove imported by Albert Lee Appliances and the complementary cabinet hardware from the brand. “This range is a work of art to me,” said Owens. With a deeply traditional visage, the range became the focal point for Ruff’s design. Riffing on this theme, Ruff obscured all the modern appliances, like the Monogram refrigerator, Bosch dishwasher, Wolf microwave, and Sub-Zero ice maker, behind the newly painted millwork and custom cabinetry. “It’s like it would have been if you were sitting here generations ago – you’re not surrounded by modern appliances,” said Owens.
“The millwork is such an important feature of this home,” said builder Doug Shaffer of ACS Custom Homes. “And Northwest Custom Cabinets hit the ball out of the park for us.”
“The white millwork works for any era,” Ruff said. “It’s clean, classy, calm, and in the background.”
Ruff re-oriented the kitchen, preserving the original window placements, but building in better functionality and flow, including a new open pantry inspired by a traditional larder with complimentary cabinetry and counter-prep space. Arched glass cabinet details reflect the arched entryways and arched brickwork adjacent to the kitchen. The “Maiolica Biscuit Crackle” tile from Statements Tile features an uneven texture and crackle gaze that gives an artisanal and lived-in effect.
The durable pre-finished flooring has an oil finish for easy upkeep. The color, a richer hue than is commonly seen in contemporary remodels, was chosen to add character and depth. It’s a warm counterpoint to the white millwork and tile.
The main bath is also an exploration of traditional lines and functions. Owen specifically wanted a classic sit-down vanity. “Today, people are so on the go. It’s kind of a shame,” said Owen. “The whole purpose of the bathroom is to take care of yourself. This is where it starts for me.” Mixed metals amongst the mirrors, lighting, and plumbing from Build.com offer an eclectic “collected” visual effect.
Overall, the team delivered a timeless environment that beckons one to sink in and relax in classic and enduring comfort. “It was definitely a collaboration between us – to come up with the look the Owens were going for,” said Shaffer. “It was a pleasure to bring their vision for this home to life.”
PROJECT SOURCES
CONTRACTOR
ACS Custom Homes
INTERIOR DESIGN
Cohesively Curated
cohesivelycurated.com
PAINT
Benjamin Moore
benjaminmoore.com
