Synopsis
After a year-long renovation adventure that was more about deconstruction than construction, and many buckets of white paint, the 1857-built Millar House is now as she should be: a loved home for a modern family of five.
Over the years, styles have come and gone and Millar House has had her share of bad Eighties hairdos. The homeowners’ restoration plan was to peel back the layers of decades of poor design decisions so the individuality and authenticity of the property once again is in the spotlight. As the former home of gentry and generals, the statuesque and stately Millar House ached to have its original features shine.
Now, details like the two massive fireplaces, high coved ceilings, substantial millwork and worn pine floors are the statement pieces of this home’s wardrobe.
It’s a serious house, and while Cynthia and Graham respect the provenance of the home, their approach to design is playful. Take the distinctive belvedere perched high on the peak of the house which glows with its with gold ceiling and walls the color of strawberry ice cream. Or the massive gallery wall of “real” and thrifted art that is the backdrop for an electric blue velvet sofa.
As a small-batch flower grower, and Floret alumni, much and early attention was given to an enormous cutting garden with its fully kitted-out shed Cynthia uses for floral styling. Another original outbuilding has been transformed into a floral/design studio and guest suite. During the renovation process this space revealed covered beams which are now released from a dropped ceiling creating a soaring creative
retreat.
With much heart and soul, the property has had a magical transformation. The homeowners say Millar House is happy once again and their hope is to inspire others to give sad old homes a second chance.
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