Modern Harmony: Designing a Nature-Inspired Family Home

Can you share insights into the colour palette chosen for this space and how it contributes to the desired ambiance?

The chosen colour palette of neutral and natural tones beautifully complements the home’s modern architecture. White walls and expansive glass create a clean aesthetic that amplifies natural daylight, allowing light to flow seamlessly through the main living space.

Finishes like the decorative natural walnut wall panel, brushed oak flooring, and the centrally placed floating staircase contribute to a cohesive aesthetic that exudes warmth while maintaining a modern feel. The furnishings, including organically shaped pieces with curved lines and tailored designs, harmonize with this look, adding softness and a touch of luxury.

Textural elements like the cozy, bouclé-covered sectional and curved-back swivel chairs offer comfort and style, creating a balanced and inviting living space.

Were there any particular design challenges you encountered during this project, and how did you overcome them?

One of the challenges in this project was effectively conveying the visual appeal and functionality of an open-concept main floor—comprising the living room, dining room, kitchen, and a dedicated piano area—using only architectural drawings.

By collaborating closely with the clients, I presented my ideas and plans for each room, engaging in an ongoing discussion to make adjustments that aligned with their vision. This co-creation process allowed us to finalize selections that felt both personal and unique, ultimately crafting a space they could imagine themselves living in. Selecting upholstery, wood finishes, fabrics, and other details a full year in advance was challenging, but with a “less is more” approach that respected the modern design, we focused on quality pieces that would serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, leaving room for light and energy flow.

Which specific pieces of furniture or decor played a significant role in bringing the design concept to life?

The main living room’s south-facing window, overlooking the nearby park and green space, became a central feature, amplifying the movement of natural light and emphasizing organic forms within the space.

Key furnishings in this area include a tailored sectional that appears to float, thanks to its carefully curved arms and soft, textural performance fabric. A cocktail table designed by Thom Filicia, with its curved legs, glass top, and fixed shelf, brings a touch of elegance while offering functionality and space for displaying coffee table books. Complementing the sectional are two curved-back swivel chairs upholstered in cozy performance fabric, perfect for curling up in. Each piece contributes to a sense of flow, balancing form and function seamlessly.

As the project progresses, thoughtfully curated artwork, a grand piano, and seasonal lighting elements are being added to enhance the space's ambiance and character. These additions not only elevate the aesthetic but also deepen the home’s sense of warmth, making it a dynamic, evolving space that continues to reflect the family’s lifestyle and vision.

What role did lighting play in enhancing the overall feel and functionality of the space?

Lighting played a crucial role in defining the ambiance and functionality of this space. Natural light floods the home during the day, and we plan to continue adding layers to the lighting scheme with carefully chosen artwork and seasonal lighting options.

Aiming for a seasonal, adaptable approach, we intend to incorporate floor and table lamps that will enhance the space’s cozy feel during the fall of 2024, making the lighting not only functional but also flexible with the changing seasons.

Were there any custom-made or bespoke elements incorporated into the design? If so, what was their significance?

Several bespoke elements were incorporated to elevate the design and bring a unique touch to the home. The cocktail and end tables designed by Thom Filicia have a custom finish that complements the aesthetic vision. The dining table and chairs were also selected with care, combining functionality and style to seamlessly blend into the home’s modern, organic aesthetic. Each custom choice reflects the personality and needs of the family while upholding the home’s design integrity.

Can you highlight any unique architectural features or structural elements that influenced the design direction?

The home’s modern architecture, with its use of glass, ample windows, white walls, and brushed oak floors, played a key role in shaping the design approach. The floating staircase, centrally located in the main living area, became a striking architectural feature, creating a sense of openness and flow. This combination of structural elements created a perfect foundation for the design, reinforcing the home’s modern feel while allowing the organic finishes and furnishings to harmonize effortlessly with the space.

How did you balance functionality with aesthetics in the layout and arrangement of furniture and accessories?

The layout was designed to maximize comfort and functionality while maintaining a refined aesthetic. The main living room serves as a gathering space for family events and social occasions, with furnishings that provide both formality and warmth. The room is tailored, contrasting with the upstairs family area, which is dedicated to more relaxed TV watching and “couching out.” By balancing style and comfort, we ensured the main living area remains visually inviting without compromising on usability, creating a space that can adapt to different family needs.

Function first and then let's make it stunning and gorgeous.

What were your key pieces used, that are highlighted in the images below?

Key pieces that brought this design to life include the Lola sectional, which sets the tone for a floating, tailored look with cozy texture, and the Thom Filicia-designed cocktail and end tables, which add elegance and versatility with their unique finishes and forms. The Emma Swivel chairs, upholstered in bouclé fabric by American Leather, introduce a soft, curved element that complements the space’s organic feel.

In the dining area, an urban modern table with a black powder-coated steel base contrasts with the natural tones of the solid wood, while low-backed chairs with subtle gold accents provide stylish, comfortable seating that ties in with the overall design aesthetic.