From Dark & Dated to Bright & Bold

What began as the idea of a simple kitchen update quickly unfolded into a full transformation. A two-storey rear addition, a complete basement renovation, and a gut of the original interiors allowed Dart Studio to completely reconfigure the flow, invite more natural light, and carve out the kind of functional, modern spaces that support everyday living.

Design: Dart Studio | Photography: Niamh Barry | Styling: Me & Mo

Designing for Real Life

Function was top of mind from the start. “We’re a family of five and the house just wasn’t working,” Jenna shares. There was no foyer, no coat closet, and the existing kitchen only had two drawers. With three kids, durability and longevity became guiding principles. Materials were chosen not only for their beauty, but for their resilience.

The result is a home that balances timeless design with realistic functionality. Sleek cabinetry, hard-wearing counters, and thoughtfully planned storage solutions ensure the spaces feel elevated yet practical.

Layers of Personality

While function laid the foundation, character came through in color, pattern, and statement details. The dining room’s bold House of Hackney wallpaper is perhaps the most talked-about feature of the home. Originally considered for a powder room, its whimsical presence made such an impact that Jenna and Olivia moved it front-and-center into the dining room.

In the kitchen, a striking brass hood anchors the design, giving the space an air of refinement that feels both playful and enduring. Paint colors bring further depth: Farrow & Ball’s Studio Green on cabinetry, Sherwin Williams’ Dovetail on wainscotting, and Brinjal, a rich aubergine, in the main bedroom. Each choice infuses the home with a distinctive mood while maintaining a cohesive narrative.

The Heart of the Home

At the core of the project was the kitchen—a space meant not only for cooking, but for gathering, homework, and the natural chaos of family life. The combination of generous counter space, ample storage, and warm finishes strikes the perfect balance between beauty and function.

Union Lighting pendants over the island add sculptural interest, while counters and backsplash in Dekton Bergen bring texture and movement. A mix of designer-sourced furniture, artwork from local galleries like Bohnen and On the Wall Framing, and personal pieces collected along the way layer the rooms with meaning.

Thoughtful Finishes & Lasting Design

Throughout the home, Dart Studio worked with trusted partners—flooring from Unik Parquet, custom millwork from D & J Manufacturing, and windows and doors by Ridley—to ensure each detail felt crafted for longevity. Every selection was made with both design integrity and the realities of family living in mind.

The result is a home that feels as vibrant and full of personality as the family who lives there: colorful, durable, joyful, and timeless.

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