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Design Dilemma: The Whole Shebang

I mentioned a design project I've been asked to assist with in Texas. My Mom and Sister are in on the gig, too, as the homeowner is my sister's MIL. The room in question is the front, or formal living area of a 1950s era ranch. We're starting with a clean slate, so I'm very excited about the opportunity to work ideas from the ground up. Chances are, we'll get the big stuff accomplished, but we're hoping to convince the homeowner, Mary, to be patient and "cultivate" her accessories over time; not only to provide the uniqueness to her home she desires, but to help guide her in her own tastes.

Mary has been uncertain where to begin with the project, but likes the white slips/sea grass/touch of zebra look that has become a sort of hallmark look in coastal Texas design. However, she wants to keep it a tad formal yet approachable - the crisp white shirt and pearls version of a room. This spread from Country Living has a few key pieces she honed in on - the settee and zebra rug.I've been trying to source a bit, so we can hit the ground running when I arrive in Texas. We'd prefer to buy in-person, and not pay shipping costs, however, I'm at the mercy of geography for a couple more weeks. Here's what I've come up with so far:

This linen settee from Wisteria would substitute nicely for an antique, French piece.

Mary loves it, and was ready to order immediately, but, this one item would eat up a large chunk of our budget. I think we can find something similar - perhaps at the upcoming Spring Antique shows in Round Top and Marburger. I'm also game for a Craiglist/DIY version if we come up short. **You Houston gal pals out there - know of some go-to places for this look? I'll be making at least one scouting/shopping trip to H-town, and need a refresher**

Side chair options will depend on Mary's willingness to mix styles, but here's a few of my thoughts - all by Ballard.















We'll definitely be incorporating some zebra, but I've been trying to think of something besides the standard faux rug or ottoman/coffee table. Overstock never lets me down - a pair of these empire zebra benches could round off the seating options, placed in front of the fireplace.

But, this printed trunk could serve well as a practical-yet-stylish coffee table.

Side tables, lamps and art yet to be unearthed. Thoughts? Suggestions?

14 comments:

Jess said...

I love the room concept! I also really like the zebra stools, but I'm not a huge fan of the trunk for a coffee table. It seems a little too loud-- maybe because it's so high? I do LOVE every other detail you've picked out-- how fun!!

Morning T said...

You know I love the look you're going for and that image from CL is amazing! Unfortunately I don't have any thoughts for you on other sources in Houston but if I hear of anything fabulous I'll be sure to let you know.

Haven and Home said...

So far so good! Maybe some trunks for side tables?

Bailey @ peppermintbliss said...

Ok, so I am nearly certain that this source is so well known you will roll your eyes, and might not be in the budget, but you HAVE to go to Kuhl Linscomb in Houston. 5 separate stores on one lot with everyttiiinnggg from randar gifts/jewelry/accessories, to furniture, art, china, bedding, vintage, refurbished. It's my fave.

GracefulElegance said...

Lovely ideas!!! Can't wait to see it all come together !

my favorite and my best said...

i say try to find a settee on craigslist...there are so many..

spark! (Ada-Marie) said...

Hi Alison! I just saw this on One Kings Lane and thought of you (if you can't click through the link, it's the Bailey Street Cosmo Bench in zebra for $99!): http://www.onekingslane.com/Product.aspx?l=00010175033100000000&p=BLY01268

Laura said...

sounds like y'all are going to have some fun at round top/marburger! if you're in houston, you should check out Judith McClellan's warehouses in the Heights...call her first to make sure she will be around. shopping around her warehouses is like being in your dream granny's attic! location is 1001 Suite C West 34th. St., phone is 713-880-9449. Bon chance!

Laura said...

and, ditto on kuhl linscomb! a decidedly different aesthetic/price range in terms of furniture than what judith has to offer, but such a fun field trip it's not to be missed!

Katie (Refresh Design Studio) said...

Looks great so far! I obviously don't have any Houston sources as I'm in MN, but I think you're doing a great job so far.

Averill said...

Great picks! If you can, try to hit up the Wisteria outlet in Dallas -- even if you don't find what you're looking for, you'll get 10% off just for ordering from their outlet and picking it up yourself.

Chic Coles said...

Looks like a great project. That sofa is just wonderful.

Tracy F . said...

Have you seen the wonderful benches/stools with zebra fabric at Target and World Market? I enjoy our blog so much!

passport in my pocket said...

that linen setee is gorgeous!

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