Ceiling

The open kitchen features a Richlite island countertop; the faucet is by Chicago Faucets. The draperies are from Restoration Hardware.

A Peter Ivy pendant hangs over the dining table and benches, also by Taku. At one end is a collection of candlesticks, prototypes for Tortoise that will be manufactured in Hokkaido. The simple wood treads on the open-riser staircase complement the unfinished ceiling beams.

“They wanted to keep the house to one level so that they could retire there without worrying about stairs and access,” Hutchison says. The home features two bedrooms, and the second one is available to guests and the homeowners’ college-age son.

Alexandra has filled the shelves with “a collection of both new and found things,” says the homeowner. “I have always collected ceramics from my travels and local artists, so I love having a way to put these on display to remind me of good memories.” The collection here includes Uzumati Ceramic Bodie Mugs from Saffron & Poe, a Virginia Sin bowl, a Bloomist vase, and Janet Kojima ceramics.

Oak flooring runs throughout the home, creating a subdued backdrop for the aged furniture. "It really lets everything around it stand out,

Two sconces, Steven Handelman Studios Iron Wall Lights, flank original photography by Bess Friday. The design team furred out foundation walls in key places – such as behind the couch here – to create functional ledges, and straighten sloping walls.

Hotho added a clerestory window to a light well, as well as an open shelving unit to divide the space, both of which let light flow through. The vintage campaign table is used as a desk, but can be broken down and stowed in place of a mattress, when the couple want to use the room as a guest suite.

The design team retained the old supports, which now frame the kitchen. Jessica picked DeVol cabinets and systems for their traditional-meets-streamlined style.

Inside, the living areas flow around a green box that contains the kitchen and a full bath.

The bold use of color continues with a blue sofa from Fest and a multicolor rug from Pols Potten.

Doug’s mother, Julie, visits with Melissa, Doug, their daughter Simms, and Birdie the dog.

The previous galley-style kitchen was dark and closed off from the rest of the house. For the remodel, Sammie requested high ceilings, no upper cabinets, and U-shaped drawers. Simple white-painted upper shelves display a collection of ceramic dishes.

The owners added a third floor to the home to act as their private suite, which includes a study.

Dining area with open kitchen and bar island.

The cozy lounge is furnished with furniture by Sancal and a carpet by Nani Marquina.

The brick plinth surround of the fireplace gave the family terrier a dedicated bed.