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Downsizing in Style

Photography Julia LynnPhotos 20Issue May 2025
A Connecticut couple builds their second dream home in the classic Kiawah neighborhood to reflect their evolving needs, passion for art, and appreciation for contemporary design.The home’s cottage-like exterior combines classic with contemporary, featuring smooth stucco walls and shingled gables.The interiors embrace its contemporary side, with tall ceilings that create a gallery-like aesthetic, inspired by Scandinavian design. The plaster fireplace surround, hand-applied by artisans Rebecca Harrelson and Taylor Faulkner, is flanked by contemporary art from local artist Ann Keane. “It’s not a big home but feels amply spacious,” says builder Scott Koenig. “It’s bright and open with a contemporary vibe, but is cozy, warm, and comfortable.”A Dale Chihuly glass sculpture and signed print in the foyer inspired the selection of this geometric “Landscape” rug from Design Within Reach.Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” painted throughout the open space creates an ideal backdrop for showcasing the homeowners’ art collection.Squid and lobster claw sculptures by a Maine glass artist are among many objets and furnishings interior designer Mikala Kuchera worked into the home. “Clients’ existing pieces often have a story or special meaning, so I enjoy finding a way to incorporate them,” she says.The homeowners’ existing wood dining table was paired with new chairs from Hickory Chair and a deep blue sideboard from Old Biscayne.A striking light fixture the homeowners found at Visual Comfort in Charleston highlights two favorite works on the far wall. “We brought those pieces from our house in Maine; they’re both Maine artists, Alex Katz and the late Neil Welliver. They work so well together,” says the wife.Moody Hues: Painted in Farrow & Ball “Down Pipe,” a deep charcoal with hints of blue, the bar adds an eye-catching element in the bright open living area. A tray ceiling and handmade Moroccan Zellige tile complete the dramatic look.Taking advantage of the ample natural light, the kitchen combines alder wood cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Cloud White” painted walls and upper cabinets, as well as a dramatic black Kelly Wearstler “Axis Large Linear” pendant.Downsizing in StyleThe wood theme continues into the outdoor kitchen and living room, which the husband says is his favorite space to relax and watch the Masters or the Super Bowl.PLAYFUL POPS: Abnormals Anonymous’ graphic puffer fish wallpaper “Mr. Blow” combines with elegant, angular wall sconces from Visual Comfort in the downstairs powder room. “It’s fun to do this type of bold print in small spaces,” says Kuchera.A color-drenched den sits off the primary bedroom. The cocoon-like space is enveloped in a sage green, raw silk wall covering from Phillip Jeffries with the trim, builts-ins, and ceiling all painted in a coordinating Benjamin Moore “Secret Path.” The Hickory Chair sofa is wrapped in a velvet performance fabric, and the homeowners’ Mies van der Rohe “Barcelona” chair complements the sculptural coffee table for a touch of sophistication.The swing-arm sconce from Allied Maker serves both the lounge chair and sofa areas.The adjoining bedroom suite has a serene color palette in soft blues and whites.The Old Biscayne bed is offset by armchairs reupholstered in a pale green fabric and an antique dresser, above which another Ann Keane painting has pride of place.A luxurious soaking tub surrounded by views of nature completes the soothing suite.Overhanging gables in the rear of the home provide shelter, while a luxurious infinity pool is the perfect spot for grandkids to play.Unlike many homes on Kiawah, this one didn’t need to be raised very high to avoid the floodplain, a fact that drew the couple to the property. “We didn’t want to have to deal with lots of steps,” says the wife.

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Downsizing in Style: An art-loving couple crafts their ideal contemporary retreat on Kiawah Island
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