Heart & Soul

Every room in this house has a beautiful warmth and a style that is at once classic and modern - it's a look that feels as if it's been lovingly curated over time

- VIVIENNE AYERS

When does a house become a home? When it truly reflects the owner's personality. And the extensive transformation of this large property in the suburbs of Washington, DC, by interior designer Zoë Feldman, is a masterclass in how to do that. Something of an ugly duckling originally, the house offered many challenges, not least what to do about the unattractive dry walls, tray ceilings and Lucite staircase. 'While it had good bones and plenty of space, the layout and design choices were outdated and awkward,' says Zoë. 'I wanted to soften the rigid architecture and bring in warmth, texture and character. My approach was to modernise the classic elements, lean into craftsmanship and create moments of visual delight.'

The clients and their school-age children had moved here from a small apartment in Brooklyn. 'They needed the space but didn't want to lose the urban edge and style they loved. They wanted something eclectic and fun - a home that celebrated their creative personalities and global travels.

The metamorphosis began with reconfiguring the layout to enhance flow and function. The staircase was replaced with a wooden design with iron railings and neat ball feet. The tray ceilings and harsh dry walls were tackled through thoughtful architectural interventions, from adding panelling and millwork to using decorative plaster and wallpaper. 'Visually, we softened the space with organic materials and textures,' Zoë explains.