Creating a Family Haven: The Timberline Design Story

Every project begins with a vision, and the Timberline project was our third collaboration with a wonderful client. The goal was clear: create a welcoming home for large family gatherings and numerous guests. The house needed to accommodate up to twenty people with ample space for fun and relaxation.

Laura Rose, one of our talented designers, envisioned a warm and inviting atmosphere. “A large family, lots of guests, plenty of space. Texture, both visual and tactile, was crucial. We used exposed brick, hand-waxed barnwood, and a suede finish on granite countertops to create a beautiful interplay,” Laura explained.

The Heart of the Home: The Kitchen

The kitchen, featuring reclaimed barnwood cabinets with a hand-waxed finish, exudes warmth and character. Laura elaborated, “Barnwood brings a sense of approachability and comfort, making the space feel inhabited. The grain and texture of the barnwood contrast beautifully with the dark, moody countertops, creating a stunning and inviting effect.”

The kitchen remodel was significant. We knocked down walls, added windows for better lake views, and removed most of the upper cabinets. This required adding more storage in other parts of the home. "Coordinating with contractors was crucial to ensure the final output matched the vision," Laura noted.

Laura turned potential storage loss into a win by integrating deep drawers and clever storage solutions in the lower cabinets. “We extended storage into adjacent spaces, such as a walk-in wet bar, preserving functionality and making the kitchen more open and airy. It invites people to gather.”

Balancing Form and Function

Balancing form with function is a hallmark of great design, exemplified in the Timberline project. “We used performance-grade fabrics and durable leathers for the main pieces, then paired this with interesting luxury pattern fabrics for accents. Every piece was chosen to maximize seating and usability for the many guests who would use the home,” Laura shared.

In the living areas, Laura's approach shines. “Comfy, strong furniture is key for big groups,” she said. “But we didn’t want to sacrifice style. We chose a rustic, waxed leather sectional with a chaise, paired with a hair-on-hide patchwork ottoman that adds texture and color, making the space feel dynamic and lived-in.”

The Custom Bar: A Nostalgic Touch

The custom bar, a product of collaboration and nostalgia, was designed to evoke a supper club feel, reminding the client of his childhood cabin and favorite places. “We used rich, dark woods and timeless bar stools to create a sophisticated yet welcoming space, perfect for entertaining,” Laura explained.

Thoughtful Touches: Vanities and Laundry Room

In the vanities and laundry room, Laura continued the theme of texture while focusing on practicality. “We used the same wax finish with custom matte paints, reflecting the property's and lake's tones. The laundry room included a unique mudroom bench with hooks and storage for towels and lake gear, and corrugated metal added a touch of rustic industrial feel,” she described.

These spaces are not only functional but also beautiful. “The vanities are designed to be practical and beautiful, with ample storage and easy-to-clean surfaces. The laundry room is a hardworking space that, with thoughtful design elements, becomes a pleasant area for laundry or storing outdoor gear,” Laura noted.

Overcoming Challenges

No project is without challenges. Laura reflected, “Coordinating the vast number of selections and design decisions to match the initial vision required meticulous planning and communication. Regular meetings, detailed drawings, mood boards, and constant communication helped us navigate any issues.”

Client’s Style and Directives

Understanding the client’s style was essential. “I worked with the client's preference for comfort with a touch of elegance. They liked warm colors but wanted a natural tone and softness. This influenced everything from the color palette to the materials chosen, resulting in a cohesive home reflecting their personality,” Laura shared.

Signature Pieces

Several signature pieces add to the home's unique character. “In the master bedroom, we featured our Iron Mountain King Bed with iron strap accents, creating a bold, rustic statement. Custom blacksmith-forged knobs and handles on the cabinets and vanities add a handcrafted touch,” Laura described.

The furniture selections enhance the welcoming atmosphere. “We chose vintage-feel rugs to anchor the rooms and provide warmth underfoot. The kitchen island, with its waxed black paint and herringbone pattern panel, became a focal point combining style and practicality,” Laura explained.

A Cohesive Home

Working on the entire home from remodel to finished product, including furniture, accessories, lighting, and bedding, allows for a cohesive yet collected final project. “This home feels natural, loved, and lived in,” Laura reflected.

Timberline is not just a house but a home where every detail reflects the vision, warmth, and character of its inhabitants. Laura Rose’s thoughtful design ensures that every corner of the Timberline project resonates with comfort and style, making it a true haven for its owners and their guests.