"These various elements sometimes drawn from different continents or decades all work together through commonality of scale, tone, or simply a shared sense of individuality."
Besides celebrating the past, the residence is a cozy family environment for Henault, his partner, and their young children. A layering of textures and patterns throughout plays an important part in this warm ambiance.
"Some important rules of thumb applied in dressing these rooms," says Henault. "The look of pattern-on-pattern in many of the spaces works well because it is used consistently.
"Juxtaposing plaid with plain, for example, will mean one or other will stand out. However, when all elements are patterned, the effect is more balanced and even restful."
The new family room at the rear of the home offers a good example of this. A variety of textures and patterns works together to create an informal feel. This was particularly important for this area, where children can romp freely, with parents safe in the knowledge that the plethora of patterned motifs hides the odd shoe scuff or chocolate handprint.
To give this room a touch of glamour and bring it up to the high style seen in other living spaces, ornate cornices were introduced. These 18th-century ornamental pieces were designed in hand-carved wood, which was then coated in plaster, which is more easily detailed than wood. In turn, the sculpted cornices were painted red and then gilded, with touches of the rouge left showing through.
To a degree, the different functions of the rooms dictated the design approaches. In the dining room where table conversation is the focus the treatments are refined but subdued. The walls are finished in a stenciled lacquer that is only just picked up by the lighting adding interest without overwhelming.
The formal living room, accessed from the opposite side of the entry foyer, reflects a more pronounced use of pattern and form. A textured linen applied to the walls is also found on the sofa base, but in a different hue. The fabric on the walls adds warmth and more importantly, quiet to the space a definite advantage in a bustling family residence.
The rules of balance are also seen in the grouping of mirrors above the restored fireplace one of six in the rambling house.