A spacious Westchester Mediterranean was the first suburban house for Debra Gottlieb’s clients—expats from the city and parents of three small children and a dog who sometimes sleeps in their room. The redesign of the 800-square-foot master was part of a larger renovation undertaken by Gottlieb, president of Finelines Interiors of Armonk, to transform the 10-year-old house and its large, impersonal spaces and traditional styling into something more distinctive, modern, and clean-lined. Though the couple’s choice of wall color differed, they agreed that it should be neither too feminine nor have too much punch. A cream grasscloth provides an elegant solution, and because both husband and wife love blues, Gottlieb chose a cloud-like, powder-blue color scheme with creams and khakis. The wallpaper texture, batik window covering, and canopy bed with suede headboard—the room’s focal point—work together to make this space light, airy, and inviting. The design aesthetic “is soft and dreamy with a rustic, organic feel that blends comfort and function,” says Gottlieb. It’s a peaceful retreat for the couple after long days working and caring for young children.
Bringing It Home: Debra Gottlieb’s Tips
Create a More Serene Room by…
Selecting a soft, quiet palette or monochromatic scheme.
“Different shades of whites can be simple, clean, and refreshing.”
Avoiding lots of patterns.
This cuts down on the “busy-ness” factor.
Minimizing clutter and accessories.
This reduces visual distractions.
Introducing natural materials and motifs.
Examples include reclaimed wood, mother-of-pearl, and plants.
Incorporating fragrance.
This might include scented candles, fresh flowers, and drawer sachets.
Refresh for Less by…
Repainting walls.
“A new color scheme can truly transform a space.”
Adding new accessories.
Rearranging existing furniture and artwork.
Hottest Bedroom Design Trends
Modern rustic.
Elements could include organic details like wood, shells, and other items found in nature.
Handmade ethnic textiles with pops of color.
Black and white color schemes.
An accent wall behind the bed.
Must-Shop Local Design Stores
The Bedford House in Bedford for “antique accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces that can give any room some interest.”
Blithewold in Mount Kisco “has great antiques and special accessories that help a room tell a story.”
Kent Home in Chappaqua, especially for mid-century furniture and accents.
Fave Home Décor Websites
Remodelista.com
Houzz.com
Pinterest.com
Decor8.com