The 2024 Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas had a little twist for designers. It was a former office building, not a residence. That said, many of the creators have had to think hard and deal with quirks like dropped ceilings and little natural light.
Designers Heather and Matt French of French & French Interiors relied on a classic design trick to hide an unsightly ceiling. That is, we tented the ceiling with beautiful Sanderson fabric. And then things started headlong with pattern plays in the remaining spaces.
The Frenchs worked with Gracie to create a custom mural that covered mostly “Dr. Martin” walls, which Heather describes as “scenic Americana.” The Seuss Trees create a whimsical atmosphere that is both welcoming and elegant. They repeated the sofa ceiling fabric from Coley Home and worked with Sanderson to create lively patterned curtains. It was manufactured by The Shade Store. A geometric oak dining table and sleek lacquered coffee table (both by Artteriors) give it a contemporary edge, ensuring this space is perfect for both tea time and happy hour .
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“For designers, the Kips Bay Decorator Show House was like the Met Gala for us, where we had to make a ‘go big or go home’ decision,” says Heather French. “Our goal from the beginning was to explore how we could do that and make the rooms something we would want to live in. We wanted every surface to impress and I really wanted it to feel like it was well thought out.”
Although eccentric, the room featured grand architectural details, which the French respected with decorative touches. For example, they covered the ornate decoration of Benjamin Moore’s coat of arms. New Moon rugs add comfort and texture without taking away from the original parquet feel. While this room is a nod to its grand origins, it’s also festive for modern hosts who need a luxurious space for book clubs, craft nights, and everything in between.
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Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before striking out on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light, covering all aspects of lifestyle, from interior design to luxury travel, wine and wellness.
