TIMELESS DESIGN
BY
KATE FITZGERALD-WILKS
INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM
Landenberg Residence
Photography by: Jon Friedrich
Long standing clients purchased a new home in Chester county that overlooks a sweeping view of a barn and horse pasture. For this completely unfinished basement, the homeowners were seeking a comfortable hang out space for the family as well as a casual space to entertain. Their “musts” included a bar, fireplace, large screen TV area with ample seating, gaming area, powder room, and storage area. A great deal of planning went in to configuring a functional layout/floor plan as it was especially challenging with the placement of the support posts.
To highlight the setting and to give the space substance and character, the design features reclaimed wood, stacked stone, and live edge wood to contrast the neutral light gray walls, white built-in cabinetry, and charcoal gray paneling.
The focal point is a stacked stone fireplace with reclaimed wood mantle, flanked by custom built-in shelving and cozy window seats. Accent walls of stacked stone in the bar area and powder room provide additional interest
More built-in cabinets support the large screen TV, and a large navy sectional and leather ottoman provide ample seating for large gatherings.
A handcrafted thick chestnut slab bar top brings drama to the bar area, while other features include steel gray leathered granite countertops, wood cabinets, a beverage fridge, and black hardware.
To infuse character and also break up the drywall in the large space, ceiling beams were constructed using 125 year-old, barn roof boards. Rough-hewn floating shelves in the powder room, and a drink rail in the gaming area add to the rustic, weathered feel. In place of traditional hinged doors, two reclaimed wood sliding barn doors lead into storage areas were fabricated.
For a more welcoming entry down into the basement, the stairwell walls were opened up and hammered metal spindles and a modern lux carpet runner were installed.