Quiet Luxury Mountain Retreat
Scope: Interior design and decor
Photos: Dina Avila
“The house is an exact reflection of our tastes and lifestyle. Everyone who visits says always remarks that it’s not only gorgeous but they instantly feel at home.”
- Homeowners
The brief was simple: transform a spacious but dated 1970s ranch-style home into a welcoming getaway that showcased the spectacular views. The clients envisioned long family weekends filled with cooking, hiking and watching movies together, as well as a quiet retreat for themselves on the weekends. Comfort and ease of living were non-negotiables; ostentation and trendiness were banned.
The architect’s initial plans were updated to make better use of space and incorporate the clients’ particular requests, such as his-and-hers home offices, a downstairs game/movie room with its own kitchenette, and a full home gym. Underfloor heating in the bathrooms, an eclectic artwork collection, and the snowy Pacific Northwest climate were all taken into consideration.
Kitchens and baths are always planned around clients’ storage, cooking and grooming needs. This homeowner wanted all small appliances out of sight, a dedicated snack drawer, high-end but easy-to-maintain surfaces and equipment, and no grout lines in the bathrooms. Multiple fixtures, appliances and cabinetry options were considered.
Materials and furnishings are crucial in making a house a home, and they require significant budgeting and consideration. However, an often-overlooked aspect of making a space truly wonderful is the lighting – not only the visible decorative fixtures but also the hidden architectural ones. Without great lighting, usability, comfort and physical health all suffer, and even the most luxurious finishes and beautiful artwork look drab.
“Going into the project, we had no idea that interior design encompasses so much more than decoration. Charrisse truly thought of everything, and living in it is a joy.”
- Homeowners
