Interior designer Jess Cooney has revitalized a once-sterile Victorian home in Great Barrington, MA, transforming it into a lively gathering space for its owners, a couple from New Jersey. Initially characterized by its stark gray floors and white walls, the house lacked personality, prompting Cooney to implement a design that reflects the vibrant lifestyle of the homeowners, who enjoy hosting large family gatherings.
Cooney’s primary objective was to create warmth and energy while addressing the home’s disjointed design. She aimed to integrate spaces through cohesive color schemes and decorative elements, ensuring that each area retained its unique charm. “I wanted to layer spaces so they were decorative and charming, each with its own unique personality,” Cooney explained.
Revitalizing the Heart of the Home
The kitchen underwent significant changes, most notably the addition of a bold black island, which became the focal point of the room. “The house has very strong lines, and everything is very straight,” Cooney noted. “I wanted to lean into that with the big, bold, square-edged kitchen island.” This design choice not only modernized the kitchen but also created a striking contrast against the previously all-white aesthetic.
The homeowners expressed a strong desire for a butler’s pantry, which Cooney cleverly integrated into a narrow hallway that leads to the dining room. “This neat design shows that you can have a small run of space in a hallway and use all the vertical area to make it highly functional,” she said. The pantry now provides easy access to glassware and tableware, enhancing the dining experience for the couple’s frequent gatherings, especially during the winter ski season.
Creating a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
In the dining room, Cooney incorporated vintage furniture to add warmth and eclectic charm. An antique farmhouse table was sourced alongside refurbished chairs, complemented by natural woven seating that ties into the overall decor. “Playing around with chair styles takes away the formality you might get from a matching set,” she explained. This approach fosters a more inviting atmosphere, ideal for family meals.
Cooney’s vision extended to the entryway, where she opted to keep the existing gray flooring but layered it with vintage rugs. She emphasized the importance of mixing warm and cool tones, stating, “This contrast gives a home dimension and interest.”
The living room features a cozy reading nook positioned in a bay window, maximizing the space’s functionality. Cooney chose vibrant upholstery for the vintage chairs, creating an unexpected focal point that draws the eye. “You want a bit of tension,” she said, referring to the importance of incorporating unique elements that surprise visitors.
The bedroom showcases a custom-designed bed with a dramatic black frame, echoing elements found throughout the home. Cooney added green drop pendants beside the bed for a touch of unexpected color, further enhancing the room’s aesthetic.
Bold Choices in the Bathrooms
Cooney took a playful approach to the bathrooms, selecting bold wallpapers that reflect the homeowners’ personalities. In the primary bathroom, she used grasscloth wallpaper, while the powder room features a whimsical tiger print. “The owners were totally game for wallpapers being added and for being a little cheeky with the prints,” Cooney remarked.
With the transformation of this historic home, Cooney successfully replaced a sterile environment with a character-rich space that exudes warmth and vibrancy. The strategic use of black accents throughout the design not only anchors each room but also reinforces the lively atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for family gatherings and celebrations. Through her innovative design choices, Jess Cooney has turned this Victorian home into a true reflection of its owners’ spirited lifestyle.
