A Birmingham interior designer shares how to give your home a contemporary and classic look.
By Susan Peck
Photography by Brett Mountain
Downsizing from a 1920s colonial in Bloomfield Hills, current owners of the new, 4,200-square-foot designer home by Brandywine Construction wanted a lifestyle that included the walkable, urban community of Birmingham.
With fond memories of their time in France, the homeowners wanted a European-inspired interior design that was created by Stalburg Design and Katie Rodriguez Design, both of Birmingham.
“We wanted a beautifully curated home inspired by both contemporary and classic elements that we can find comfort in after a long day,” the owner says.
We asked interior design specialist Barbi Stalburg Kasoff of Stalburg Design to share interior styling tips to achieve the finest edit for luxury as well as comfort — with decor you can find from Birmingham stores.
Kitchen
The open concept of the home requires that the kitchen — a focal point in the home — has a strong connection with the surrounding living spaces, Stalburg Kasoff says. “By styling with items that could also be found in the living room or family room, it flows with the everyday living spaces. Because it is so visible, it’s also important to coordinate kitchen colors with those throughout the home.”
Get The Look
From willow and fernn: Big Heart Tea Co. herbal and botanical hand-blended teas: chai, $9.99; cup of sunshine, $8.99; cup of love, $8.99.
From Found Objects: Farmhouse Pottery artisanal stoneware in French countryside designs: beehive honey pot, $85; Laurel pie dish, $125; Ben’s Garden large rectangle tray, $78.
From Stem & Stone: Windowsill miniature potted succulents, $12 each.
From Lori Karbal: black and white Himalayan salt and pepper dispensers from L’Objet + Peugeot France, $315.
From Found Objects: Farmhouse Pottery artisanal stoneware in French countryside designs: medium trunk bowl, $145; large trunk bowl, $225; countryman pitcher, $245.
Master Bathroom
The master bathroom is an oasis for comfort and style. “With so many design elements going on in a large bathroom — like the oval freestanding soaking tub and polished nickel sconces — it’s important to finish the space with an array of monochromatic or pastel items,” Stalburg Kasoff says. Lotions, bubble bath, towels and accessories in those palettes create a polished and relaxing look.
Get The Look: From Lori Karbal
Lollia Luxury bubble bath, $56
Fresh Sugarbath sugar cubes, $39
C.O. Bigelow body wash, $20, hand wash, $18, body lotion, $24; Baobab Collection candle, $115
Sideboard and Butler’s Pantry
The sideboard and butler’s pantry off the dining room are both transitional spaces that provide an opportunity to rotate display pieces seasonally to update and freshen your look, Stalburg Kasoff says. “We’ve chosen accent pieces that bring art, form and texture to the areas that add sophistication to the shelves and countertops.”
Get The Look: From Lori Karbal
Alexandra von Furstenberg acrylic framed photo, $145; Alexandra von Furstenberg acrylic paperweights, $370 a set; “Concours” coffee table books, $175; Bas Meeuws flower pieces, $175; Lily Juliet large textured bowl, $420.
Alexandra von Furstenberg coasters, $145; Nashi Home black and white resin bowl, $155, with matching servers, $75.
Walk-in Closet
His and hers walk-in closets with ample space alleviate concerns about storage. “Remember to reserve some space to display personal items that bring joy and delight to this intimate space,” says Stalburg Kasoff, adding that lighting is essential. “An overhead crystal chandelier provides stylish illumination.”
Get The Look
From My House of Style: In 2 Green organic cotton throw in geometric pattern, $175; black lacquered jewelry box with agate closure by Tizo Design, $115.
From Found Objects: contemporary acrylic art slabs, $120 each; Lafco three-wick Champagne candle, $98; whimsical ceramic jewelry tray, $78.
The Study
The study provides another sanctuary in the home for reading, resting or game playing. “It’s important to include softer elements that provide a sense of warmth such as a favorite throw or pillow,” Stalburg Kasoff says. “Our goal is to transform this into a special place of luxury, that’s a more intimate space within the open concept of the rest of the home.”
Get the Look
From Lori Karbal: Alicia Adams baby alpaca wool throw in cream color, $560; backgammon set $180; acrylic match box, $62.
From Found Objects: custom stationary in acrylic box, $79.
From willow and fernn: pure linen Shanghai garden pillow in ecru By Designers Guild with decorative painted peonies, reverses to gray linen, $185.
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