Architect Mike Abraham designed the residence so that if you are standing anywhere on the first floor you can see through to every room. He created center points in each room that aren’t something you notice consciously, but the result is a wonderful sense of calm in the home. Megan notes that his design brings order to the home.
Builder Mark Hickman brought Mike’s plans to life with lots of special details, and interior designer Iva Zinker worked with Megan, adding new pieces and using some of the family’s existing furnishings, art, and light fixtures to create a wonderfully harmonious domicile.
The result is a home that feels exactly right for today. The mix of formal and family spaces are unified by defined walkways, giving the house a great flow.
The living room exemplifies what Mark calls “a touch of contemporary.” He mentions the traditional mouldings and high ceilings, both of which lend classic style, but the overall feeling is very of-the-moment.
The kitchen is the center of the home and you’re absolutely drawn to it thanks to the timeless white cabinetry, nickel hardware, and a slightly unexpected antique brown stone island.
Natural sunlight floods in through the triple window, and when the sun goes down, there are lovely glass chandeliers to illuminate the area.
Megan likes that the kitchen accommodates large groups and small gatherings equally well. “I love to cook. We love to entertain and this kitchen works well both for parties and for family nights.”
Megan had the French oak table stained a lovely dark tone, and its rustic style contrasts beautifully with the glamorous lighting while providing a spot for family dinners or homework. The new color of the table echoes the tone of the walnut flooring and trim used throughout the house. American walnut is used consistently. The first floor features 7-inch wide planks and the second level is done with 1.5-inch floorboards.
Continuing the rich mix of materials, exterior stone is incorporated into the interior of the family room, with excellent results. The combination of stone, soaring ceilings, and rough-hewn beams create the most comfortable kind of elegance.
Everyone’s favorite spot seems to be the screened-in porch with a fireplace the family lights in the spring and fall. “It’s functional and cozy,” Megan says.
— Words by Michelle Crowe
