Individual response

A successful interior designer needs more than a fine appreciation for colors, furniture and fabric. Drawing together generous interiors, for example, requires boldness and imagination to see what will bring out the best from what are already architecturally imposing spaces.

Julie Porter Associates specializes in upscale interior projects that transform residences from the grand to the gracious, says principal designer Julie Porter.

"We work to enhance the drama of large homes by creating room settings and elements that all build on the existing architectural lines," says Porter. "We also make sure that the clients' lifestyle needs are reflected in the design."

This lavish residence is an example of Porter's ability to create dramatic and at the same time extremely comfortable living environments.

"The clients on this project have a love of fine furnishings and accessories," says Porter. "They also have an extensive collection of artefacts and artworks that they wanted to display effectively. Both these factors became integral to the look of the large-scale rooms."

To create an appropriate showcase for the artworks and fine furnishings, Porter chose a neutral palette.

The drama of the space is apparent from the residence's double-height grand entrance.

"Sweeping 18ft-high draperies at the entrance build on the sense of theater," says Porter. "Here, as with several rooms in the house, I selected oversized furniture to match the generous scale of the spaces."

Other public spaces include the formal and informal dining rooms and a theater, billiard and entertainment room.

Every room in the house has a strong individual presence especially the formal dining room. This room is graced with a Baccarat crystal chandelier, wall sconces and candelabra. As on a stage awaiting its players, silk draperies are held back by four-foot, hand-carved antique figurines.

Due to the size of the dining room, Porter was able to place central elements in clear space such as select pieces from furniture-maker Baker Knapp & Tubbs.

"In keeping with the atmosphere of grandeur, I paired a rare mahogany, gilt wood and inlaid twin pedestal dining table with twelve George I carved walnut chairs," says the interior designer. "The dining room also features a Regency-style rosewood cabinet and vitrines decorated with gold-leaf carved crowns. These are flanked by Parler Deaux chairs."

While many of the living areas have a refined ambiance, the theater room has a more comfortable air.

"The custom seating was designed in a pumpkin-colored silk with chocolate accents I used chocolate-toned silk wall coverings to absorb sound," says Porter. "I wanted this room to be very approachable and relaxed, and the oversized furniture played a central role in this."

Even the smaller rooms have an air of individuality. A sitting area provides a conversational space and contributes a sense of arrival for the master bedroom.

"The master bedroom itself has a rich, luxurious ambiance. We used a German wallpaper with a raised, tone-on-tone pattern. To complement this, I selected a gold mica finish for the walls in the master suite's two bathrooms."

Porter says close cooperation from the owners, and their love of fine furnishings and decor, helped define the rich interiors.

For more details, contact Julie Porter Associates, 3664 Snowy Pines Street, Las Vegas, NV 89147, phone (702) 252 0235, fax (702) 253 6586. Or contact the company by email: julie0235@aol.com. Website: www.JuliePorterAssociates.com.

Story by: Trendsideas