Designer Leslie Schofield takes a dated Draper home to new heights, reimagining the feel and function of her clients’ main-level living areas
Photos by Joshua Caldwell
Styling by Noelle Wright
It helps to know people in the design world— that’s what these Draper homeowners learned when they called on their friend, interior designer Leslie Schofield of Leslie Schofield Studio, to help them remodel their dated and dysfunctional main-level living spaces. The undertaking had two main goals: to improve the flow of the home’s main level and to select updated finishes that would stand the test of time.
“Replacing the shutters with these gorgeous Conrad shades was an instant transformation,” says Schofield. Topped off with a Boyd Lighting pendant, the breakfast nook flaunts a simple and clean look basking in natural light. Dining table by Kravet; chairs by Arhaus; bowl by Rina Menardi.
A front door custom designed by Leslie Schofield Studio sets the stage for this home’s transitional appeal. Allowing soft light to filter through, it bridges the home’s traditional exterior with the newly updated interior. Custom ottomans in Holly Hunt fabric by Markell’s Upholstery; custom console by Arbor & Ore.; art by Alex Gerrard.
Schofield teamed with her clients and Morley Construction to reimagine the main-level floor plan. The new layout eliminated a defunct formal dining room in favor of an expansive entertainer’s kitchen, transformed an outdated sitting room into a high-style dining area and added a chic mudroom and office space. Schofield also connected rooms more seamlessly with updated transitional entrances. “We felt a bit constrained by the walls that were there, and thought we just had to make the best of them,” shared the homeowners. “Leslie immediately had a better vision.”
Schofield updated nearly every aspect of the previously obsolete sitting room, transforming it into a high-style dining space. Wallcoverings by Casamance and Gregorious Pineo; rug from Adib’s Rug Gallery; art by Anne Wolfer; fireplace stone from Venetian Tile; chandelier by Hammerton.
A transitional aesthetic guided the finish choices as well. “We couldn’t fight with the existing elements of the home,” says Schofield. “In order to cohesively pair the new interior with the existing architecture, we leaned into a transitional look that is warm, inviting and timeless, ensuring the clients never have to update again.”
The newly-expanded kitchen is a dream space for cooking and entertaining, showcasing rich walnut wood and brass hardware. Making the most of the shallow depth, Brownstone barstools wrap around the island for a conversational corner. Elegant quartzite forms both countertops and the backsplash of a hidden coffee bar, boasting clean lines for a sophisticated finish. Cabinets by Craftsman Kitchen; pendants from Restoration Hardware; custom shades by Leslie Schofield Studio.
Every classic material stemmed from the design of the home’s newly-expanded kitchen, created by removing a wall between the workspace and former dining room. Oak floors, walnut cabinetry and quartzite countertops with clean lines open up sightlines throughout the home and beyond, while brass finishes add a touch of glamour to the warm finishes.
Sophisticated, masculine tile pairs with elegant Arte gold-studded wallcovering for a dramatic finish in a small powder bathroom. A leggy Stone Forest sink visually expands the space, and a Regina Andrew sconce casts moody light.
“Our family room really transformed into a cool place to be,” the homeowners explain. Plantation shutters and rustic accents give way to flowing natural light and sleek walnut finishes, exuding effortless glam and timeless beauty. Sofa by Thomas Lavin; ottoman from Hickory Chair; coffee table from Century Furniture; custom Donghia/Holland & Sherry throws; cabinets by Craftsman Kitchen; art by Hamilton Aguiar.
Just off the entry, the decor takes a more formal turn in the new dining space, defined by moody finishes and high-gloss accents. A dramatic stone slab in green and rust tones forms a timelessly tailored fireplace surround, its colors intensified by the dark wallpaper behind it. “Because this space is off the entry, the homeowners get to view and enjoy it every day, even if they don’t use it daily,” Schofield says.
In the updated living room, river rock and pine give way to a stunning combination of walnut, stone and brass for an elevated and artful finish. Throughout the home, Schofield removed dated plantation shutters to allow easy flow of light. Down the main hall, a formerly unused space now serves multiple functions, reimagined with bold color drenching, expansive locker storage, an inviting window seat and fashionable work space.
Schofield updated nearly every aspect of the previously obsolete sitting room, transforming it into a high-style dining space. Wallcoverings by Casamance and Gregorious Pineo; rug from Adib’s Rug Gallery; art by Anne Wolfer; fireplace stone from Venetian Tile; chandelier by Hammerton.
“I always tell my clients that if you have real estate that you don’t use on your main floor, that’s pretty expensive real estate,” Schofield says. “Let’s make sure even if you’re not in the room, that you get to appreciate it.” With that philosophy in mind, this project became more than just a remodel—it was a complete reimagination of what the home could be. Each space gained new life through thoughtful updates, giving the homeowners a renewed heart to their home to enjoy for years to come.
“We leaned into a transitional look that is warm, inviting and timeless.“
-Leslie Schofield
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