In a remarkable transformation, interior designer Jess Cooney has revitalized a Victorian home in Great Barrington, MA, turning what was once a bland and sterile space into a vibrant gathering place for a lively family. The owners, a pair of grandparents from New Jersey, sought a warm environment that reflects their love of hosting and entertaining.
When Cooney first encountered the home, she described it as feeling “very sterile.” The gray-painted floors and all-white walls gave off a fresh yet lifeless impression. Recognizing the need for a design that resonated with the homeowners’ personality, Cooney set out to create an inviting atmosphere filled with warmth and energy.
Integrating a Butler’s Pantry
One of the homeowners’ primary requests was the addition of a butler’s pantry, which Cooney skillfully incorporated into the design. She utilized a narrow space leading into the dining room to create a functional pantry that maximizes storage while maintaining aesthetic appeal. “This neat design shows that you can have a small run of space in a hallway and use all the vertical area to make it highly functional,” Cooney explained. This pantry now allows easy access to quality glassware and tableware, enhancing the family’s entertaining capabilities.
Revamping the Kitchen
The kitchen underwent significant changes, with Cooney introducing a black island that serves as a central focal point. “The house has very strong lines, and everything is very straight,” she noted. This bold design choice contrasts with the previously white, conventional kitchen, infusing a modern touch that complements the overall structure of the home. The juxtaposition of the contemporary island with softer elements, such as curved lighting and stools, strikes a balance between boldness and comfort.
Creating a Cozy Dining Area
In the dining room, Cooney embraced a vintage aesthetic by sourcing an antique farmhouse table and refurbishing the owners’ existing chairs. “I really wanted to bring in more vintage furniture, which is a nice way to layer in warmth and a feeling of eclecticism,” she remarked. The mismatched chairs contribute to a relaxed dining atmosphere, making the space inviting for family gatherings.
The entryway features a blend of vintage elements, including the Mille Fleur wallpaper by Lee Jofa and a custom-designed cabinet that harmonizes with the home’s rustic charm. Cooney retained the existing gray flooring but layered it with vintage rugs, adding texture and character.
Redefining Living Spaces
The living room combines two distinct areas: a main lounge and a cozy reading nook situated by a bay window. Cooney strategically placed vintage chairs upholstered in vibrant fabrics to draw attention and create a unique focal point. “You want a bit of tension,” she said, emphasizing the importance of unpredictability in design. This approach prevents the space from feeling monotonous and enhances its livability.
Cooney’s design philosophy extends to the bedrooms and bathrooms, where she chose playful wallpapers that reflect the owners’ adventurous spirit. The primary bathroom features Katsura Embroidered Toile wallpaper, while the powder room showcases a fun leopard print from Cole & Son. This bold use of color and pattern showcases Cooney’s commitment to infusing character into every corner of the home.
Conclusion
Through thoughtful design choices, Cooney transformed this historic Victorian house into a lively and inviting home. The strategic use of black accents throughout the space not only unifies the design but also adds depth and intrigue. Each room reflects a balance of sophistication and warmth, ensuring that the home is perfectly suited for both the owners and their extended family gatherings. The project stands as a testament to Cooney’s skill in creating spaces that embody personality and charm, while still being functional for modern living.
