In many cases, the home itself speaks to the direction of the design if the client in a full remodel. In this case, we were lucky enough to work with a team of amazing clients, contractors, and builders to connect the history of the home to the future of the living. 

Our most recent project, titled Functional Elegance, involved a full remodel of a historic home in the heart of Raleigh, NC. Lead Designer and owner Martha Schneider walks us through her process from start to finish with a Design Q&A!

Question: What sparks inspiration for you in the design world?

Answer: I find myself constantly inspired by the attention to detail in architecture and design exhibited by European cities and fashion designers. A stroll down any Parisian street reveals gorgeous front doors, balconies traced in wrought iron, and exquisite details that never fail to impress.

Question: How do you get inspired when taking on a full remodel?

Answer: For me, it was how to design a timeless and functional home for a family of four while being comfortable and keeping traditional flair. It was important that the design direction of the home needed to complement the existing structure. To achieve this, we incorporated various Schumacher fabrics and trims to connect the home's rich history to modern living.

Question: What opportunities did this space present?

Answer: The kitchen and living room were separate and closed off in the original floor plan. We chose to open both rooms to create a more spacious and light-filled environment while allowing a better flow between the two spaces. An open-concept design is essential for families with young children as it creates a more functional living space.

Question: What is unique about this home?

Answer: The home was very dated and needed contemporary updates throughout. By editing the fixtures and flow, we were able to design a home that speak to the traditional bones yet is functional for a family of four. The mudroom was added as a drop zone for little hands and feet (including pups!).

The fireplace was also completely redesigned with traditional details. The triumphant vaulted ceilings draw your eye upwards, so the centerpiece for the room needed an equally elevated look.

Question: Is there one thing you hear repeatedly from clients after working with them?

Answer: How much they enjoyed the collaboration of the design project and how we achieved their goals in design, comfort and functionality of their home.

Question: At what point should you bring on an interior designer when beginning a full remodel?

Answer: Right away. With a designer on your team, you will have an expert guiding your decisions, always having the final vision in sight. Each decision has a chain reaction, and we are here to guide you each and every step of the way.

To view the full gallery for this project, find it listed under “Functional Elegance” in our portfolio!

To make a design inquiry, fill out the questionnaire under the work with us tab.