Not Familiar With Foursquare Homes? Take A Tour Of This Updated Beauty
Popular at the turn of the century, Foursquare houses are known for their large rooms, simple layout, and beautiful woodwork. This stately 1906 Foursquare in Bellingham, Washington, boasted all the hallmarks of the style, but needed to be lightened up for its latest occupants, a young family of five. Designer Lisa Staton helped them create a more casual vibe that's better suited to life in the 21st century. "We wanted the home to be lighter and airier — a bit of a feat with all the heavy woodwork! — and have a casual, comfortable and relaxing environment for family living and entertaining," she says.
The clients didn't want to paint the dark Fir woodwork, so Staton had to find other ways to brighten up the home and tone down the formality of the architecture. She painted the walls white and updated the lighting to help recreate the light, open feel of the family's previous home. The palette consisted of creams, whites, and warm cinnamon, and Staton brought in lots of textures to add coziness and visual impact.
The client contributed plenty of vintage pieces, which the designer layered with natural elements such as stone, wool, and linen. The resulting space feels bright, airy, and most importantly, family-friendly.
1. Entry
Black-and-white art and a West Elm light fixture modernize the entry, where a pair of vintage chairs sit beside an Armadillo rug.
2. Entry
Haris Kenjar
In another corner of the entry, a vintage chair and stone table make a bold statement.
3. Living Room
Haris Kenjar
A vintage sofa and chairs warm up the living room, while the white Lambert & Fils chandelier and Blu Dot coffee table add brightness. CB2 sconces illuminate a steel ledge, which displays artwork.
4. Dining Room
Haris Kenjar
A playful light fixture from Jayson Home hangs above a vintage table in the dining room. The vintage chairs from Madsen Modern are topped with cozy sheepskins.
5. Bedroom
Haris Kenjar
Pale hues and sheer materials create a serene environment in the main bedroom. Staton installed wall sconces by Brendan Ravenhill beside the bed, leaving room on the nightstands for art. A Noguchi light sculpture hangs above the bed.
6. Bedroom
Haris Kenjar
A display of unframed vintage art brings a relaxed vibe to the guest bedroom. An IKEA table lamp sits atop a custom table by Lisa Staton Interior Design.
7. Bedroom
Haris Kenjar
A vintage stool doubles as a nightstand in one of the children's rooms. Muted pink walls and bedding create a playful but sophisticated space that won't need to be redone as the years go by.
8. Bathroom
Haris Kenjar
Benjamin Moore's Simply White was used to brighten up the entire house, including the main bathroom. A mirror by Rejuvenation and a vintage Eames chair pick up the black motif in the vintage tile floor.