River Hill
River Hill Residency
Project Year: 2024
Design style: Elevated Contemporary
Overview: River Hill Residency embodies an elevated contemporary design style, characterized by clean lines, refined finishes, and a high degree of craftsmanship. This project showcases how to make large, open spaces both functional and cohesive, providing a seamless blend of aesthetics and practicality. The design reflects the clients’ desire for a streamlined, effective lifestyle, perfect for both everyday living and social gatherings.
Client Profile: The clients are a family with four children, spanning different ages. Their needs were twofold: to create a spacious environment where the children have room to play and live comfortably, while also crafting a home suitable for hosting parties and family events. The design cleverly balances these requirements with sophistication and durability.
Photography: Mike Chajecki
The living room in the River Hill Residency showcases how a large space can feel both cozy and stylish, with the original fireplace serving as the focal point. Updated with a custom mantel, a paneled wall of natural walnut and slats, and discreetly integrated TV, the fireplace anchors the room and creates a relaxing atmosphere.
Key Features:
- Fireplace & Focal Point: Enhanced with walnut veneer, Italian porcelain mantel, and custom cabinetry for storage, blending functionality and elegance.
- Lighting: Recessed LED and accent lighting highlight the craftsmanship of the paneled wall and fireplace.
- Materials & Textures: Stain-resistant upholstery, natural walnut, and ceiling-to-floor custom curtains add warmth and sophistication.
- Artwork: Neutral, large-scale pieces enhance the design without overwhelming the space.
- Seating & Layout: Thoughtfully arranged contemporary furniture ensures comfort and durability for family gatherings.
This living room combines functionality with elegance, making it perfect for both everyday life and entertaining.
The dining area in the River Hill Residency blends character and elegance, using thoughtful materials, textures, and zoning to align with the home’s refined contemporary aesthetic.
Key Features:
- Walls & Texture: High-performance grass-cloth wallpaper adds texture and warmth, complementing wooden elements for a cohesive backdrop.
- Zoning & Balance: The rectangular room features a large mango wood dining table (burnt wax finish) as its centerpiece, paired with a proportionate chandelier. A custom diamond-patterned stained white oak wall panel balances the space, creating harmony and shortening the room’s visual length.
- Furniture & Decor: A mango wood sideboard is adorned with elegant decor, including brass bowls, handmade vases, and an artist-signed “Art Nouveau” sculpture by Austin Productions (1985). These details add artisanal and historical depth.
- Lighting: A chandelier above the table provides functional lighting and verticality, while wall sconces add ambient light, complemented by a central round mirror for brightness and openness.
- Natural Elements: A bamboo plant introduces organic softness and a subtle Middle Eastern influence, enriching the room’s design.
The dining area achieves a timeless yet modern look, combining natural materials, artistic decor, and practical design to create an elevated yet inviting space for gatherings.
The office at River Hill Residency is designed for maximum functionality with a sleek contemporary aesthetic, featuring custom cabinetry and a bespoke table crafted by principal designer Ksenia Berkovich.
Key Features:
- Custom Cabinetry: Contemporary cabinetry provides ample storage for organization while visually enlarging the space. Open white oak shelves with recessed LED lighting add warmth and display opportunities.
- Bespoke Table: Designed with smooth edges for safety, the table serves as a functional workspace with integrated under-table storage, maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
- Artistic Touch: Deco Capiz wall art by Diego Olivero adds texture and elegance, enhancing the room’s airy and inspiring atmosphere.
This office seamlessly combines practicality and sophistication, creating a productive yet stylish workspace.
The kitchen in River Hill Residency balances style, warmth, and functionality, serving as a cozy gathering space with modern design elements.
Key Features:
- Focal Points: Brass-accented hood and lighting add elegance, mirrored in the island for cohesion.
- Premium Materials: Italian quartz countertops and backsplash ensure durability and a luxurious, easy-to-maintain finish. The island includes a countertop heating system for comfort during colder months.
- Smart Storage: A dedicated pantry maximizes storage while keeping the main area uncluttered, and a hidden coffee station adds convenience for enthusiasts.
- Innovative Features: The sink includes standard, filtered, and boiled water faucets for added functionality.
- Island Design: A waterfall-edge island serves as a contemporary centerpiece, with stylish wooden trays for practical display.
- Color Palette: Warm whites and soft tones create a modern, inviting aesthetic that stands apart from traditional white kitchens.
This kitchen seamlessly blends functionality with sophisticated design, making it ideal for family gatherings and culinary inspiration.
The powder room at River Hill Residency combines style and functionality, reflecting the home’s contemporary design.
Key Features:
- Vanity & Surfaces: A custom vanity with an Italian quartz countertop ensures durability and elegance, complemented by a vessel sink and minimalist wall-mounted faucets.
- Wallpaper & Lighting: High-performance grass-cloth wallpaper adds texture and durability, while sleek Kelly Wearstler wall sconces provide functional, refined lighting.
- Color Palette: A modern gray palette with textured surfaces creates depth and a calming atmosphere.
This powder room offers a tranquil, stylish space that mirrors the elevated design and craftsmanship of the house.
