French-style sophistication is softened by nature’s tranquil palette to create an ideal dwelling in this serendipitously discovered Alabama home.
“My clients were not actively searching for a new home when they learned this house was available,” says interior designer Lauren Conner. “With their two adult children no longer living at home, the two-story house offered the ease of one-level living with the primary suite, living room, dining room, kitchen, and keeping room all located on the main floor.”
Engaged for the third project for these homeowners, Conner was tasked to counterbalance the formality of the existing French aesthetic with the inviting ease of nature’s tranquil hues and to create a welcoming environment to entertain their large extended family and friends.
A Sophisticated, Cozy Retreat
The harmonious blend of French classical elegance with serene earthy tones of mossy greens, rich taupe browns, and calming neutrals is first revealed just off the foyer in the home’s living room. In striking contrast to the otherwise light-filled home, the living room is a sophisticated yet cozy retreat enveloped in imported French oak walls with antique French doors located in each of the four corners of the space.
A stunning 18th-century French mantel anchors a layered seating arrangement of chocolate brown leather chairs, sumptuous velvet club chairs, and a mohair-covered sofa paired with two ottomans. The well-appointed space fosters an atmosphere for connection or quiet reading while enjoying a bourbon from the husband’s extensive collection. The room is complete with parquet de Versailles floors layered with an antique rug from Paige Albright Orientals.
The formal dining room was transformed into an intellectually engaging space with the addition of a custom library wall. Conner drenched the ceiling and walls in a taupe brown, creating an ambience of elegance and engagement. Vintage Louis XVI–style chairs juxtaposed with fully upholstered velvet high-backs, an extension round-to-oval English dining table, a historically classic bronze chandelier, and a nature-inspired tablescape define this space, where the homeowners and guests can linger for hours.
A thoughtfully selected piece of art, an antique gold mirror reflecting a curated collection of books, and select silver pieces masterfully coalesce to create an intimate dining space.
A Timeless, Monochromatic Kitchen
The kitchen’s existing French-detailed cabinetry—inspired by the piece above the range purchased in France—and soaring tray ceiling were reimagined in a timeless creamy white that blends seamlessly with the neutral beige stone flooring. The focal point—an Italian antique chandelier discovered by Conner at an antiques market in Round Top, Texas—was relocated from the couple’s prior residence.
Completing the exquisite monochromatic space is a custom-paneled coffee bar displaying glassware, bar essentials, and select pieces from the owner’s silver collection. “We added linen café curtains over the sink to invite more natural light into the space,” says Conner. “Chik blinds backed with hand-blocked fabric were installed on the kitchen doors leading outdoors to further illuminate the space.”
Pale green walls set the tone for the primary suite, embracing the owners’ desire to invite the outdoors in. The peaceful retreat is enriched with a sumptuous white rug and Schumacher’s Chenonceau sage green, flora-and-fauna linen draperies. The thoughtfully designed space also includes French-inspired lighting and furnishings and a sitting area with two club chairs and a side table.
A Private Sanctuary
The wife’s affinity for nature is perhaps most evident in their walled courtyard. This private sanctuary can be accessed from the primary suite, living room, and kitchen, forming a U around this treasured respite. A central stone statue, Flora, the ancient Roman goddess of flowers and spring, stands gracefully against a contrasting backdrop of lush foliage. Carefully curated potted fresh herbs and wild blueberries also live in this space, where a velvety patina has formed on the teak furniture, adding a layer of time-honoring, soul-soothing calm.
Infused with the enchanting allure of nature, the language of the home speaks French-elevated beauty at every turn. “My clients have beautiful taste,” says Conner. “This home is a true reflection of their discerning eye, personal warmth, and gracious spirit.”
Interior Design: Lauren Conner, Lauren Conner Interiors
