Woodleaf

Southern Living, Aug 2001 by Belden, Derick, Clavell, Alicia K

Because safety is a concern in the second-floor area, Dick built the balcony railing with 2 1/2-inch on-center pickets-1 1/2 inches closer than building codes mandate. To keep the railing from becoming visually busy, Don raised the newel posts 5 inches above the handrail, thus making it lighter and airier.

AWAY FROM IT ALL

"One of my favorite things about this house is the master suite," says Linda. "It is tucked away downstairs out of the public space, yet it's wonderfully convenient for living." In lieu of a headboard, a painted antique screen hangs on the wall above the bed. "The screen creates major art interest and establishes a color palette for the room," she notes. Along with a subtle vine pattern weaving through the cream rug, floral fabrics with sage green, muted brown, soft cream, and a dash of red help bring the outdoors in. All these elements combine to make this room a retreat, particularly for parents who need some quiet time.

BATH BUILT FOR TWO

The master bath is designed for ease of use and convenience. "We have included separate his-and-her water closets, which you wouldn't see unless you were looking," says Don. "Also, a monster linen cabinet adjacent to the entry provides plenty of storage. We have thought a lot about storage here because of family."

Pocket doors leading into the master bath keep the space open and ensure movement, but perhaps the most innovative feature in the bath is the unique walk-through shower, which is sunk into the floor and designed for entry from either side. It features dual water controls and high-set windows for natural light.

Open shelves hold bath salts and collectibles, whereas smaller drawers and cabinets organize toiletries. The backs of the shelves are covered with fabric rather than paint. Pinned to foam core or attached directly to the cabinet back, the fabric can be interchanged for a different look.

PLANES FOR HIM, BUGS FOR HER

A child's room needs to be fun. At Woodleaf, Linda appointed one bedroom for a young boy and a nursery for his little sister.

When designing a child's room, a theme is a good place to start-the boy's room began with an airplane motif. Painted clouds are scattered across the sky blue ceiling, and vintage airplanes adorn fabrics. Decorative prints and model airplanes abound.

His room was designed to be fun yet durable. Painted furniture anchors the room, and a trundle-style toy chest beneath the bed pulls out for convenient storage within his reach.

In the girl's nursery, creepy crawlers of the cutest kind roam the room. A crib fabric embroidered with bugs was the inspiration for the room's accessories, from window treatments to pillows. An inexpensive area rug covered in ladybugs continues the theme and breaks up the wall-to-wall carpeting.

When planning a room for children, incorporate furniture on a small scale to bring it down to their level. Here, a miniature table and chairs pair with an adult settee. Don't be afraid to use smaller adult pieces in a child's room, and remember, a rocking chair is a must for any nursery.