This 1964 Preston Hollow home was in the perfect location and had great bones but was not perfect for this family that likes to entertain. They wanted to open up their kitchen up to the den and entry as much as possible, as it was small and completely closed off. They needed significant wine storage and they did want a bar area but not where it was currently located. They also needed a place to stage food and drinks outside of the kitchen. There was a formal living room that was not necessary and a formal dining room that they could take or leave. Those spaces were opened up, the previous formal dining became their new home office, which was previously in the master suite. The master suite was completely reconfigured, removing the old office, and giving them a larger closet and beautiful master bathroom. The game room, which was converted from the garage years ago, was updated, as well as the bathroom, that used to be the pool bath. The closet space in that room was redesigned, adding new built-ins, and giving us more space for a larger laundry room and an additional mudroom that is now accessible from both the game room and the kitchen! They desperately needed a pool bath that was easily accessible from the backyard, without having to walk through the game room, which they had to previously use. We reconfigured their living room, adding a full bathroom that is now accessible from the backyard, fixing that problem. We did a complete overhaul to their downstairs, giving them the house they had dreamt of! As far as the exterior is concerned, they wanted better curb appeal and a more inviting front entry. We changed the front door, and the walkway to the house that was previously slippery when wet and gave them a more open, yet sophisticated entry when you walk in. We created an outdoor space in their backyard that they will never want to leave! The back porch was extended, built a full masonry fireplace that is surrounded by a wonderful seating area, including a double hanging porch swing. The outdoor kitchen has everything they need, including tons of countertop space for entertaining, and they still have space for a large outdoor dining table. The wood-paneled ceiling and the mix-matched pavers add a great and unique design element to this beautiful outdoor living space. Scapes Incorporated did a fabulous job with their backyard landscaping, making it a perfect daily escape. They even decided to add turf to their entire backyard, keeping minimal maintenance for this busy family. The functionality this family now has in their home gives the true meaning to Living Better Starts Here™.

The family room overlooks the pool and backyard and brings a relaxed feeling to this family friendly room. Teal blues and greens compliment the neutral custom sofas, and a cozy arm chair and ottoman and rattan chair completes the scene. The artwork references the blue color palate and is a soothing addition to the space. Custom pillows bring an updated feel to the room.

Family room in Rustic House in Santa Fe. Typical plaster walls, original vigas & brick floors and kiva style fireplace. Used clients antiques & kilim rugs from previous home.

This family room which is open to the dining room and kitchen is a perfect layout for entertaining large groups. We started with a very neutral palette and kept it light with neutral furniture with pops of blue in the rugs, pillows, accessories and chair backs. There is yet an other patio behind us with an exterior fireplace.

ph. Michele Gusmeri

Salón mirador con espectaculares vistas al mar.

Eric Quarrell

ph. Michele Gusmeri

Photos by Randy Colwell

Family room with warm brick floor and walk-in brick fireplace.

Behind the counter and wall are stairs to a Finished Basement, TV Room. To the left of the counter is a dog door.