By Jenn Andrlik, Photography by Rikki Snyder
What was originally a contemporary house was rebuilt in 1999 and 2000 as a shingle-style house by architect Ralph Mackin. Almost 20 years later, the homeowners, who are now empty nesters, wanted a refresh. They re-enlisted Mackin as the architect on the project, and he brought in Kathleen Walsh to do the interiors. Working together, they created a new, more functional layout for the first floor that lends itself well to entertaining and a beautiful interior perfect for 2019 and beyond.
“This project started with the desire for an updated kitchen and a super comfortable sofa, maybe a new bathroom, [and] a few more things,” Walsh says. “A kitchen conversation led us to examine the butler’s pantry layout, which led to discussions about circulation and entertaining. That opened the door to talk about the previous music room and library layout, and soon the owners decided to redecorate the whole house and make some key architectural changes to the first floor and master suite.”
Walsh says working with the architect from the beginning was key. “When we work with architects, we’re usually brought in early and can fast-forward in time to focus on things that really relate to the eventual everyday function of the house,” she says. “A designer’s job is to have done their homework to understand how the owners want to use the house and how they live.”
View the article as a PDF here.
Read the full article and see more interior photos by visiting Westchester Home Magazine's Winter 2020 article.