Decorating & Design
March 4, 2019
This Warm & Inviting Family Home Redefines Rural Living
Perched atop a hill, overlooking a lake, the 66-hectare homestead is a tranquil escape. The English country-inspired space is truly tailor-made for relaxed, contemporary living thanks to Calgary designer Nyla Free, who had the “well lived and well loved” approach the homeowners were after. The Alberta couple and their two teenagers yearned for more land, more space and more quiet, and they also wanted to be closer to nature. “We wanted our home to have a relaxed sophistication that’s connected to the rural backdrop,” says the homeowner of the spacious 5,000-square-foot abode. “Now that we’re here, we’ve realized how profoundly peaceful it is.” Scroll down to step inside this inviting family home.
A pair of custom-made chairs swivel to take in the view of the lake. The hallway flooring delivers added dimension in a herringbone pattern.
A large-scale sectional provides plenty of seating in the living room. Built of the same material as the home’s exterior, the stone-clad feature wall visually connects indoor and outdoor spaces.
Instead of the usual overhead light fixture, table lamps bring an intimacy to the front entry. The wall’s applied moulding offers depth and a European feel while a rug stands in for a workaday mat.
In the sitting room off the entry, armchairs upholstered in navy velvet, angular coffee tables and a textured rug strike a welcoming note.
In the kitchen, the homeowners had additional windows installed in place of upper cabinetry to maximize the view. Hand-painted terracotta tiles are inset into the floor, framing the smoky grey island for a unique look. “The tiles add an unexpected element,” says Nyla. “Each one is different and imperfect, and they inject old world French and Spanish influences.”
The pantry accommodates a set of ovens and small appliances while the extra counter space provides more room to prep food.
A generous dining room for family dinners and entertaining was essential. The green built-in curio cabinet features doors inset with brass chicken wire.
To preserve the principal bedroom’s cozy vibe, the couple’s walk-in closet is situated down the hall. The bright space features a dressing table and mirror, and the laundry room is conveniently nearby.
The principal bedroom’s custom-made nightstands with antiqued mirror fronts and tops are elegant and practical.
The principal bathroom’s soaker tub creates a luxe spa-like feeling. “I love that with the drapery wide open I have a beautiful view,” says the homeowner.
Phil Crozier
House & Home February 2019
Nyla Free