VUE

Arakelian describes the place as both casual country/ industrial with pockets of glamor. "e front wall and the fireplace are in the same place, "she notes amusedly, "everything else is different." Once through the front door, guests are greeted by stairs to the second floor. Originally a straight and narrow staircase, it is now angled with a 90-degree bend in the middle, creating a layout with more story and intrigue. Railings of wrought-iron and hardwood supply that touch of country, while a modish stylized carpet sets it off. e first floor is an open concept space complete with a "great room" seating area by the fireplace, a second seating area, and a fully modernized kitchen with dining space in back. Built from stones gathered across the property and accented by a beautiful wooden mantel, the wood- burning stone fireplace that captivated the clients and fueled their ambition to renovate, remains in place but now with a minor modification. "When we made the ceiling 9 feet high we had to match the stone in the fireplace," explains Arakelian, "so I had a very rustic, beautiful beam made to make up the additional foot." Beyond satisfying the practical structural necessity, the effect is an increase in contrast as the dark wood beam handsomely frames the lighter stonework. By preserving the stylistic integrity of the original wood- burning fireplace Arekelian has ensured the storyline of the home retains at least one thread unsevered. In the modernized kitchen at the back of the house, the design is ruled by rustic minimalism while exception is made for splashes of grandeur. A leather- finished granite island centralizes the space with plush bar seats welcoming guests to sit and socialize. A dark walnut floor with a hand-hewn finish provides fitting contrast to the white-washed cupboards and white brick-style splash board. A Viking stove supplies ample firepower for the most ambitious dinner host, while a floor to ceiling gas fireplace adds a warm modern touch. e window treatments are a variety of metal and wood blinds, all from Hunter Douglas, a curated combination of their lines entitled Silhouette, Pirouette, Vignette, and Duette. e accent piece is undoubtedly the large circular chandelier reminiscent of a wooden wagon wheel that reminds guests they're outside city limits and are welcome to relax in casual comfort. VUE ON | DESIGN VUENJ.COM 39

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