There’s No Place Like Home
Elevated + Intentional
When our clients, a young family originally from Ridgewood, moved from a compact New York City apartment to a charming Tudor in their old neighborhood, they knew they wanted to honor its historic character while infusing it with warmth, color, and a modern sensibility.
With one daughter in tow and a second one on the way, they needed more space to live, play and make memories, but also wanted their family home to feel elevated and intentional. To achieve this balance, they turned to Kristina, whose vibrant and pattern-rich portfolio they knew would encourage them to embrace bold choices and step out of their comfort zone.
While our clients loved some of the medieval-style details of their home—the arched doorways, exposed beams, and leaded glass windows— they also wanted to make the space feel more youthful and inviting.
Kristina delivered by introducing a lively color palette of greens, blues, and pops of lavender and yellow, a departure from the traditionally darker, moody hues associated with Tudors.
Design Challenges Defeated
This renovation was no small feat, as the home, built in the 1920’s, needed extensive work and the project essentially included every living area - from refinished floors to an enlarged primary bathroom and bedroom, all new lighting, a fireplace overhaul and a fully gutted powder room. Space planning also presented unique challenges, including a narrow staircase that required removing the railing to accommodate a king-sized bed frame and oversized mirror.
Designed for Life
With a lifestyle heavy on entertaining, the homeowners prioritized functionality without sacrificing style.
The living room is the true Tudor showpiece and our client’s favorite space. The room features a custom-made sectional, an Oushak rug designed by Kristina, a plush armchair that creates a cozy reading nook by the fireplace, Venetian-inspired marbled wallpaper in the built-ins, and statement lighting that flanks artwork originally owned by our client's parents.
“We love that every piece invites conversation,” the homeowner shared.
The dining room, anchored by a traditional Federal-style table like one our client grew up with, ensures that family gatherings are intimate yet grand, fresh but also familiar.
Setting the Stage
The custom-built cabinetry, delicate grasscloth wallpaper in the primary bedroom, and sculptural light fixtures all add layers of texture and character.
From the thoughtfully curated entryway rug to a floral-wrapped attic office that makes you feel like you're floating to pops of color and pattern inspired by each daughter's personality in their bedrooms, every design detail was meticulously chosen to bring our client's home aspirations to life.
“It feels like art,” the homeowner says, “but it’s also comfortable, welcoming, and completely us.” This new yet familiar old home now sets the stage for the story its owners are ready to write.
