European Charm

The 2004, Spring issue of Better Homes and Gardens special interest publication, Beautiful Homes, featured the story of a couple who had recently married and decided to build a home based on compromise. The photographer was Michael Parteneo. Their homesite was in West Chester County, New York next to a 250 acre bird sanctuary. The lady of the house was an interior designer and wanted a cozy cottage while the gentleman of the house wanted a large home to accomodate family and friends.

Agreeing on the ample room, she still wanted to create a home that exuded warmth which was a challenge for a 10,000 square foot home, including a 2,500 square foot basement. They ended up with a Georgian Revival house with a European flair, resulting from the use of antiques.

          Time worn materials were used for the flooring and blended in with new windows and doors. 

Symmetry was featured from sidelights to garden urns.

The living room opens to the limestoned tiled entry foyer, where a staircase leads to upper-level guest rooms.

Two Ming dynasty statues adorn the living room mantle. The mill work and color scheme established a complimentary setting for the collection of Asian antiques displayed. 

The dining room chandelier is made from an antique French cloche. The Transom-topped French doors open to a deck that overlooks the gardens; niches on either side of the doors, painted to look like stone hold cut-flowers.

Even when morning light streams in, mahogany woodwork and dark green walls lend the library a rich, cozy feel.

A wall of hand-painted Portuguese tile looks good with the kitchen's stainless steel stove and wood countertop.

A window seat and forged iron light fixture from France define the breakfast area off the family room.

A screened porch next to the breakfast room looks onto the pool.

The master bath room sits in it's own bay. Roman shades provided privacy for day time bathing without blocking the natural light. The French doors open to a patio hot tub.

Antique linens adorn the four poster bed. The creamy walls and white trim give the master bedroom a soothing look.