The Green Sitting Room

It started with a slightly crazy suggestion from the homeowner’s brother-in-law: lacquer the entire room. So we did. In green, no less.

What had been an underused sitting room became one of the most memorable spaces in the house. We wrapped the walls, trim, moldings and new built-ins in the same deep green lacquer, then took the pattern overhead with a bold wallpapered ceiling. Sculptural lighting keeps the room from taking itself too seriously.

As part of the renovation, we created the built-ins and reworked the passage into the new bedroom suite. Glass shelving and an antiqued mirror back give the cabinetry depth without adding visual weight.

Nearly everything in the room was chosen for its age and character. The exception is the pair of swivel chairs, selected very intentionally. Turn one direction and you’re part of the conversation. Turn the other and you can sit with a bourbon and look out toward Forest Park.

Perhaps the best compliment to the design is one we never planned for: this little sitting room has become the room where everyone wants to gather. Guests come in, settle down and simply don’t want to leave.