I’m thrilled to reveal that my tea room design made the COVER of House Beautiful’s November issue featuring the House Beautiful Whole Home Concept House. House Beautiful approached me to be part of the design team when the country was shutting down, and I thought there was no better time to focus on creating a space that can bring wellness and peace to those who live within its walls.

Our homes are meant to serve as safe havens and a place where precious memories are made.  Read these tips on how to create an environment that enhances your daily experience. Also, keep scrolling to shop my office design!

This project lives in tranquil Franktown, Colorado, while surrounded by peak-to-peak views of the Rocky Mountains. The Foxhill community has created properties that celebrate nutrition by providing sustainable farmlands for the people that live there.

House Beautiful Whole Home November 2020 Cover

I wanted my tea room to reflect the beauty of the Colorado surroundings, while simultaneously providing a wow factor. I started with the foundation of the space by enhancing the architecture through beautiful paneling and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry swathed in grasscloth and brass detailing. Within the cabinetry are custom nooks on each side of the room, perfect for a nestled sofa and desk. Walls painted in Wild Currant lacquer that has purple, earthy undertones creates an enveloped feeling.

I thought about the functionality of the space, of course. To pay homage to my Southern roots, a room exists for entertaining and relaxation. I fashioned the space to serve as a tearoom/office where you could have a friend over for coffee, tea, or even wine, and actually use your collected china. Your Butler’s Pantry helped me outfit the walls and cabinetry with delicate china that plays off the red from the walls. Avalon Cabinets created custom tea storage, perfect for hosting.

I then focused on infusing the space with natural textures to balance out the lacquered walls. Because of the small footprint, I knew using the right rug would be impactful. I opted to layer a natural fiber rug with a vintage oushak from Retorra Rugs. Palecek, Lee, and Williams Sonoma provided furnishings and accents in woven materials, leather, stone, and wood, giving the space depth. I then had drapery made with Schumacher’s Paloma fabric featuring a deep red embroidery throughout.

Tea Room Accents

Lastly, I brought in lighting and art. A room’s lighting is one of my favorite elements to design, as it has the power to completely transform a space. I was thrilled that my debut collection with Visual Comfort became available right before the installation and we were able to use my pieces! I then added stunning, tonal artwork from two of my my favorites, Josh Young and Mary Case.

Most important, thank you to the House Beautiful Whole Home concept for this incredible experience.