WINNER
A Modern Classic
KL Milam Interior Design
Home offices and studies are far from what they used to be. No longer is an awkwardly placed desk and uncomfortable chair par for the course. These rooms are now often given considerate design treatment, resulting in a variety of chic, polished workspaces. So when a client commissioned a handsome study, local interior designer Kim Milam didn't hesitate to imbibe in rich, elegant textures and neutrals. “A pair of desks in cerused oak, iron and petrified wood were introduced to this intimate home office as a modern-day partners desk,” she says. “Being juxtaposed with a large, rustic storage cabinet helped create interest by contrasting textures, while at the same time repeating patterns in reclaimed wood and quilted leather.” Many of Kim's bespoke furniture pieces are from her House Essential line, which she calls on often to incorporate just the right statement piece for her clients. Fun details like a Barbara Barry lamp and brass peace sign atop the cabinet add the “cool factor.” Above the latter hangs a set of found object artworks by Central Texas artist Randall Reid — he specializes in a unique style of found object collage and metalwork — sourced from local veteran gallery space, William Campbell Contemporary Art. Near the study doors, an Eames lounge chair beckons, perhaps the perfect spot for a business discussion between office mates. In a workspace this charming, we're sure the owners never mind clocking in.
FINALIST
A Study in Dynamic Detail
Sterling Renovations and Design
Bold and dramatic looks can often come across very dark, feeling more cave-like than design savvy. But that certainly wasn't the case for this Bent Trail home remodel by husband-wife principals David and Julie Walsh. Together, they oversee their Southlake-based, upscale remodeling firm, Sterling Renovations and Design. They see to every detail, even arranging a cleaning service when renos are complete. And taking on projects with dynamic color schemes and details poses a welcome challenge. “This client wanted a very sophisticated office for her husband, yet fun and playful with some Texas favorites on display,” Julie says. “The modern wallpaper really gave it a special look!” The vivid gold and gray-toned pattern catches the eye immediately, seamlessly paired with the matching hue on the lower half of the wall beneath the chair railing, as well as the built-in desk and bookshelves. A black-and-gold light fixture overhead ties in the metallic tones and adds a sleek touch. Details like the comfortable leather chairs in a modern silhouette, metallic antlers on the clean-lined desk and rich wood flooring result in a space that “creates a timeless feel,” Julie says.
FINALIST
International Inspiration
Clarity Homes
When it comes to a space that's genuine and thoughtfully crafted, success is in the details. This approach is a common theme for boutique new home builder, Clarity Homes. Based in Fort Worth and established in 1998, the multi-generational, family-owned business has sought to create affordable luxury homes — each designed with details that count. From classic colonial to traditional Tudor, their spaces are clean, polished and creative, like this stylish study inside a naturally refined hacienda. “It was inspired by the idea of a stately library,” Clarity's director of design Samantha Karcher says. “We wanted to create an Old World feel with ties to modernity.” Classically appealing touches like built-in cabinets painted Sherwin-Williams Pewter Green and a gold patina Rochester light fixture from Savoy House give the space a bit of Ecuadorian flair, where much of the vision for the study was drawn. And wherever the eye travels, high-impact details abound, including the unique flooring. “By doing the brick paver floor in a mudroom or small library, you're still able to enjoy it. But it's not such a large space that it drains your budget,” explains Samantha, an example of Clarity's dedication to delivering affordable luxury — and showcasing exemplary details that turn a good home into a truly great one.