Grandville #1: Adjoining living rooms

Homes are meant to provide shelter and comfort for those who inhabit them. We can infuse them with things that bring us joy; books, mementos, photos, art, etc and what brings us joy can change over time. Our home can evolve with us so that it is a constant source of refreshment.

This home is no different. As newlyweds we were excited to add bright colors and bold accessories, but when our family grew and there was so much new, young energy, bouncing off the walls, we desired a more calming, neutral backdrop for our life.

Reworking the fireplace wall to incorporate a wall to wall mantel and brick surround added beautiful, natural texture, warmth and architectural interest, not to mention a new place to rotate through art and decor seasonally or on a whim. Decorative columns were removed, creating a better flow between the side-by-side living areas, and opening the space up to the foyer. The columns weren’t our style, but we lived with them for quite some time, knowing there would be a carpet issue when we removed them. Practicality forced us to wait until the kids were a little older and we felt we could trust them with new carpet before we finally removed the columns and replaced the carpet. Many, many feet of oak trim were painted white and a serene, nearly white, warm gray was selected for the walls (Sherwin Williams - Nuance).

Home as a source of refreshment meant something very different to us in our 20’s than it does now. We are grateful that homes can so selflessly adapt to ever-changing needs.

westside grand rapids #1: Living room + screened-in porch

Having contemplated a main floor renovation for quite some time, this Westside client had many of the big changes underway with their contractor when they hired Home Joy Studio. Walls were moved, a screened in porch was added on, new floors had been selected, an entirely new kitchen layout was in place and built-ins were installed. They had a great new space in need of a fresh new look that just wasn’t going to happen with their existing furniture. Starting with new paint colors recommendations and assisting with the final decisions on details such as cabinet hardware and lighting fixtures led us smoothly into the next phase of the project.

We discussed furniture needs and layout as well as overall design aesthetic and then the client shopped for the comfort pieces (sofa and chairs), texting photos during their shopping trips to be sure we were in alignment on finishes that would work within the space. Meanwhile, Home Joy Studio sourced accent pieces, side and coffee tables and accessories to finish off the space, providing the client a full shopping list with links and pricing for all included pieces.

The jumping off point was a beautiful (and affordable) vintage-look rug with subtle colors and geometry that would be echoed in the shapes of table bases, lamp details, and other accessories. By curating accessories from a variety of sources, and staying away from full matching sets, the result is a space that feels collected over time and like a space that can be truly lived in and enjoyed.

While the screened-in porch ended up falling out of Home Joy Studio’s scope, the design direction is included to show the continuity in style from indoor to outdoor living.

Byron center #1: Living room