Located in the historic Indian Hills community of Louisville Kentucky, designer Francoise Murphy‘s client had a vision for her family’s classic home. It was a dream that would celebrate family by showcasing her mother’s most-loved antiques. Inspired by 18th century English conservatories and orangeries, Francoise Murphy Interiors worked with architect Chip North of Northdwell Fine Residences and builder Samuel Graham of Graham Design Build to create a deeply personal addition to the home that will be lived in and loved for many years to come.
The team created a beautiful, yet functional, addition consisting of new living and dining areas. The space is elegant, but not overly precious, with herringbone brick floor that adds a laid back feeling perfect for the family of four. The wife’s blue and white china comes to life in her mother’s antique cabinet against a bright green backdrop, and her majolica collection is scattered throughout the addition.
“It surprises me how one space can serve two distinct functions (living and dining) so effortlessly,” said Murphy. “It’s not unusual to see the husband walking through in ski boots trying to break them in or the dog coming in after a romp through the garden.”
The Lee Jofa Hollyhock armchair was the inspiration for the color palette in the room (including the fireplace). There are six different Farrow and Ball colors in this room alone. All interior framing and trim work is custom, along with a custom Rumford-style working fireplace, inspired by the simplicity of an 18th century American mantel.
The framed tulip prints are from an antique tulip book that the client found while visiting the tulip festival in the Netherlands.
A European-inspired Sarafina chandelier from Colleen and Company hangs over an antique table sourced from McGrath II studio shop.
Unlacquared brass door fixtures are from Classic Brass. Hidden pockets above custom windows house and hide retractable insect screens, and Indian chik blinds adorn the eight pushout casement windows.
Fran and team seized the opportunity to expand the client’s Primary bath while building the addition. Beautiful Hinson wallpaper lends to a soft backdrop in the charming primary bath. The custom “furniture-like” vanity and linen cabinet add a cottage feel while the custom colored soaking tub offers the perfect respite after a long day. Marble tiles are laid in a herringbone pattern and brass waterworks fixtures are found on the bath and shower.
Exterior details include French pushout casement windows and Sweet oeil-de-boeuf (aka bull’s eye) window, which add charm and interest. Timeless copper gutters and a chimney cap will perfectly patina over time, and a Bluestone patio creates the perfect outdoor living space.
“There is nothing more gratifying than giving life to an old home,” said Fran. “So it is with this special project. My client’s mother had a wish for her daughter, and her daughter’s home and I was honored to help bring it to life alongside a very talented team.”
For additional information, please visit Francoise Murphy Interiors For ongoing inspiration, please follow @francoisemurphyinteriors on Instagram. You can also click here to read The Glam Pad’s Style Profile Q&A with Fran!
Additional project credits include:
Photography: @katelikeheart
Styling: @francesfinds
Architecture: @northdwell
Build: @grahamdesignbuild
Interior Design: @francoisemurphyinteriors
Photoshoot prep: @jenleighrose
Florals: @roseandhoneyfloral
