Mount Vernon Nook
Before, this area was too big for a hallway, yet too small for a room; the family had a narrow table and two uncomfortable chairs pushed against the wall - it was a dead space dimensionally and emotionally. The family asked us to find a way to accommodate a dining table to finally start to have some proper family dinners.
By integrating architectural-engineering-design strategies, we provided a solution featuring a curved wall, a curved built-in bench and a custom oval table with curved legs. We chose a restrained color and material palette - timeless blues, clear-coat red oak, gunmetal and brass metals, in order to let the shaping of the space and its features be the focus.
We first modified the floor structure to create a 2-ft overhang, then shaped the wall’s curve to fit the width of the space. Next we installed window openings accentuated by wall sconces above. Since there is not a desirable view outside, we chose window sizes that provide the right balance of light and privacy, and ensured its casing relates to the woodwork in the space. Next we designed a built-in bench that includes ledge, seat, and even incorporated shelves/storage on both sides - this accommodates key and mail dropoff near the side entry, and a docking station to charge phones and devices near the kitchen. We reused and relocated the original pendant that was in the space, and we selected two open-back chairs to take the curved lines that we have established architecturally to a finer furniture scale.
The grand finale of the project is the table that we custom designed and built for our client to fit the exact oval dimensions of the space - the legs were finished in a powder coating of gunmetal and brass; the top was finished in a clear-coat red oak. We “tattooed” the leg to reference the house number. This is a table that might appear simple at first glance, but reveals more than meets the eye with every use and look. One day, even if the child of the family - and his children and their children - moves away from this home, this table can be passed down the generations, carrying with it all the memories that are made possible because of it.
This project is wholeheartedly inspired by quality time with family and friends. There is a warmth, love and togetherness expressed through every element in the space.
