Tasked with redesigning a master bedroom suite on a budget for a pair of Rhode Island dentists with a trio of young children, Sophia Shibles of Providence-based SCS Design Interiors had to juggle not only space considerations but also competing aesthetics between husband and wife. While he leaned toward the tailored, she was attracted to a more bohemian vibe. To address a storage deficit, Shibles borrowed space from the bedroom itself to create more closet space. When it came to selecting furnishings and finishes, she opted for classic neutrals in clean lines for the main elements, and went bold with lower-risk pieces such as pillows. “The architecture is beautiful,” says Shibles, “so we were able to keep things spare and tidy to satisfy the husband, then drop in pattern and color for her.”
1. Light blue/gray walls painted Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray are soothing and versatile.
2. The clover-shaped Currey & Company Cosette lantern “is classic but adds a global feel, and the antique brass finish glows,” Shibles says.
3. The existing stained-glass panel dictated the position of the furnishings (the bed is centered under it and the sconces just below it) and provided inspiration for accent colors.
4. Using swing-arm wall sconces instead of table lamps frees up space on the night stands.
5. The camelback upholstered bed from Pottery Barn fits perfectly. “We needed a low, unimposing headboard” for under the stained-glass window, Shibles explains.
6. White lacquered campaign-style night stands provide closed storage; the brass hardware injects a subtle shine. “They’re preppy and a little beachy,” Shibles says.
7. A Moroccan-style rug adds texture and pattern. As for the size, it was important that it not encroach on the sitting room doorway.
8. Crisp Roman shades appeal to the husband’s desire for neatness while hand-screened fabric by Sister Parish Design spoke to the wife.
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9. A sofa would block the windows, so Shibles re-purposed a pair of slipper chairs from another room. John Robshaw pillows add color and unfussy femininity.
10. A tufted ottoman upholstered in a bold chevron fabric by Alan Campbell makes a statement without a big style commitment. “It doesn’t require much yardage, so it wouldn’t be expensive to change it,” Shibles says.
11. The asymmetrical shape of the cowhide rug doesn’t distract from the curve of the bay window or rigidly divide the space.