Tarrytown Charm | The backstory

At Casa Marcelo it’s important to us that our clients’ spaces reflect their lives. We do not push our style on clients, instead we use their aesthetic to guide the process. We are here to embrace and express our clients’ needs and taste, to the best of our ability, using our expertise and knowledge of brands to bring it to life. This is exactly how we captured the essence of this next client.

When the Tarrytown clients came our way they expressed wanting to add a little more charm to their historical Tarrytown home. A family of 3 growing to a family of 4, they wanted a functional space for their family to feel comfortable in, while maintaining the essence of their home.

‘Before’ Photo

I recognized the potential instantly. Though the client pushed back about needing new bookshelves, we recognized the need for closed storage and unity between the two pieces, which was best if created as a new piece.

In the center, two chairs seemed to be out of place and floating in the space uncomfortably. On the wall opposite the bookcase, there was essentially a knee wall that jutted out to clear head space for the basement stairs underneath, a piece the clients were unsure what to do with—my suggestion: make it faux millwork and build on top!

‘before’ photo

I instantly began thinking about wallpapers. William Morris, Sister Parrish, Osborne and little, House of Hackney—all the country glory of florals, pattern, and color! Our goal: Adding color, breathing fresh life into the space, and providing a reference to their outdoor garden that lies beyond the library windows.

We first began with a space plan, incorporating an existing vintage chair, and plans for a natural fiber on the floor, custom millwork, and natural window treatments.

I loved the idea of a space to relax in, take a repose from family life for either parent of two small children. I imagined them folding up with a book and a drink after hours, doors closed, with the quiet of the outdoors buzzing.

What we landed on is a gorgeous charming space that is loaded with vintage items, excluding the daybed, millwork, and lighting. We used lighting from Avant Garden and Allied Maker, textiles for custom pillows and reupholstery from Alex Conroy and House of Hackney, Sanderson.

I’m so glad with how this turned out. It’s truly a cottage and country escape. And best of all, we know our clients are happy with it!

Click here for our complete reveal!