SHORE HOUSE SIX: FAMILY ROOM
A new project always starts with our Design Questionnaire and then a conversation with our clients about how they want their space to feel and how it should function for their family. For our Shore House Six project, which was a ground-up new construction home, we all agreed on finishes and furnishings that were light and bright, with modern-coastal touches (but nothing too nautical or kitschy, of course).
For the ceiling and fireplace feature wall, we selected Boral nickel-gap, a composite product that looks like shiplap’s chic, older sister. And to add some architectural interest to an otherwise white space, we had the builders install faux ceiling beams, paneled in white oak to match the floors and the floating fireplace shelves.
Our color palette for most of the house was blues, greens, grays, and natural wood tones. It’s a pretty standard range for a beach home, but what gives this design a more modern-coastal feel are the touches of black we added throughout (in this room, the black side table, frames, and accessories). Our clients hadn’t used much black in their year-round home, so this was definitely a change for them. While they were initially worried that the white walls and black accents might make the room feel cold, we assured them that, by focusing on texture — in the fabrics, rug, pillows, and rattan chairs — the space would feel clean, modern, and cozy all at the same time. (They totally got it in the end!)
As for function, this family has four kids, so each room in the home needed to include enough seating and enough flexibility to accommodate everyone. This proved challenging in the Family Room, which is essentially the main living space in the home but is only approximately 15’ x 12’. We tried out multiple floorplan arrangements, but, ultimately, the final decision was made based on one very common design request: the client wanted the space to function for entertaining AND for every-day activities. Meaning, the room had to work around the TV.
This topic is often taboo for designers. Some believe that TVs have no place in high-end rooms or even in public areas of the home, some go to great lengths to conceal them in furniture or behind panels. We’re more of the mindset that, if it’s something your family needs and uses often, then let’s find the most beautiful and functional way to incorporate it. (Same goes for kids’ toys, board games, family photos, items of sentimental value, etc.)
In the Family Room, we opted for the Samsung Frame TV, which sits flush against the wall, like a picture frame, and displays art or family photos when the set is turned off. It’s a great option for incorporating a television without destroying the aesthetic of the room. I (Jillian) went with them in my own house too!
To make this room even more flexible for this family of six (plus friends!), we opted to forgo a coffee table, and instead, went with two ottomans that matched the sofa, plus two braided jute poufs. With a tray, these become surfaces for drinks, remotes, magazines, etc.. Pushed up to the sectional, they’re footrests or additional seating for guests. We also designed the built-ins on either side of the fireplace in such a way that any of these ottomans can be tucked underneath the lowest shelf to free up floor space for games and dance parties.
In addition to addressing layout, we sourced sectionals, chair cushions, and rugs that were all made with super durable, indoor/outdoor fabrics, making spills a non-issue. This option can cost a little more up front, but ultimately, saves a ton in replacement costs, stain-removal services, and reupholstering fees, not to mention, peace of mind. We believe no parent should be stuck hovering over a juice cup!
Want to recreate this modern-coastal look in your own home? Here’s a shopping list with some of our favorite items from this space:
Rattan chairs - Palecek
Acrylic tray - CB2
Throw pillows - Serena & Lily
Braided jute poufs - Annie Selke
Indoor/Outdoor sofa fabric - Perennials
Or, of course, you can contact us, and we’ll happily do the work for you!