100 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {home & design} sies, such as all-purple walls, got fully vetted and tempered by parental and design wisdom. Overpowering tones become accent colors or decor, pared down to posters and pillows. Describing it as a huge task, Sheila and the homeowners transformed a house that took itself quite seriously, with dark, moody colors and ornate motifs, into a bright, whimsical ambience, reflecting the young family’s exuberance for life. Delightfully sophisticated, yet completely livable. The couple made quick decisions, Sheila recalls. She went deep in the first concept presentation, offering many options— fabrics, finishes, paint colors. This allowed both husband and wife to “get their hands dirty and play with us.” young children, you can’t have a wonderful home,” she says. Challenge two: Creating the right vibe for frequent drop-in visitors and the husband’s business associates. Growing up in a similar environment, Sheila knew how to intertwine home and hospitality, creating ample places for people to perch and enjoy themselves. The pathway? Familiarity, says Sheila. Knowing their morning routines, after-school schedules and evening rituals made all the difference in tailoring spaces to this family. The former first-grade teacher even developed a kids’ questionnaire, asking their favorite colors and the look of their dream rooms. Childhood fanta-
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