- Eddie Lee transforms an 18th-century shingle-style cottage in Bedford, New York, into a modern retreat while honoring its historical roots.
- Lee collaborates with contractor Jim Best for a comprehensive renovation, blending antique charm with contemporary design elements.
- The kitchen is updated with wide plank pine floors, replacing outdated linoleum, and painted in Benjamin Moore’s Spiced Apple Cider for warmth.
- Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wall coverings and patterned wallpapers from Schumacher and Waterhouse Wallhangings enhance the cottage’s aesthetic.
- Design features include antique English armchairs, Roman shades for continual light flow, and vivid color palettes that invite comfort and celebration.
- The project reflects Lee’s expertise in merging the past and present, creating a space where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.
A rare opportunity emerged for visionary designer Eddie Lee with an 18th-century shingle-style cottage nestled within the sprawling, idyllic landscapes of Bedford, New York. Here, amidst the whispers of history and nature, Lee was entrusted with a dream: a carte blanche to marry past and present in a home serving as an occasional retreat.
Every room of this historic weekend abode, stretching across a vast 200-acre estate, whispers tales of the past while embracing the allure of the contemporary. Tasked with blending the essence of antiquity with modern sensibilities, Lee embarked on an extraordinary renovation journey alongside esteemed contractor Jim Best, carefully gutting and infusing new life into the cottage’s three-bedroom interior.
Critical decisions were made with precision. The linoleum of yesteryears vanished from the kitchen, making way for expanses of wide plank pine floors that echo footsteps from one harmoniously open space to another. Under low-hanging ceilings, Lee’s artistry surpassed the mere diminutive rearrangement of furniture. Instead, a delicate play of textures and materials wove magic, casting an inviting glow throughout the common areas with a grasscloth wall covering by Phillip Jeffries.
In this setting, where time seems to linger, each corner unfolds a story. Antique English armchairs stand witness to quiet afternoons and lively gatherings, their classic forms draped in vibrant hues of Dedar fabric. Roman shades replaced cumbersome drapes, crafting an unbroken tapestry of light and continuity.
Upstairs, Lee retained the charm of the original layout, artfully utilizing patterned wallpapers to transcend the challenges of sloping ceilings. In the primary bedroom, the walls and bedding don Schumacher’s Indian Arbre floral, from which Lee drew hues of Van Courtland Blue for window trims and a soft beige for the ceiling backdrop. A symphony of matching tones sings in the primary bathroom, adorned with Shawer subway tiles, continuing seamlessly into the neighboring twin bedroom’s coral and green floral splendor by Waterhouse Wallhangings. The third chamber, affectionately known as the bird room, bursts to life with an aviary print from Schumacher, turning each glance into a flight of fancy.
Downstairs, the kitchen explodes with an aura of joy, painted in the warm, inviting embrace of Spiced Apple Cider by Benjamin Moore. It is a space where colors leap with cheer, echoing Lee’s spirited desire for celebration and retreat in equal measure.
With every thoughtful detail, Eddie Lee’s design genius shines a light on the joyful intersection of history and innovation. His work in Bedford stands as a testament to the power of imagination unleashed, beckoning all who enter to step into a realm where the past’s grace meets the exuberance of the present. Here, amid antique treasures and contemporary elegance, one can truly feel at home.
Unlocking the Secrets of an 18th-Century Cottage: How Designer Eddie Lee Merged History with Modern Elegance
Revitalizing a historic 18th-century shingle-style cottage is no small feat. This unique property in Bedford, New York, offered visionary designer Eddie Lee a rare opportunity to blend antiquity with modern design. With a strategic renovation plan that embraces both eras’ essence, Lee transformed this charming retreat into a picturesque haven that honors its storied past while celebrating contemporary life. This article explores additional aspects of the project, offers insights into similar renovation undertakings, and provides actionable design tips inspired by the cottage’s metamorphosis.
How Eddie Lee Transformed the Cottage
The restoration of this 200-acre estate’s weekend retreat required a harmonious blend of old and new. Here are a few elements that played a crucial part in this transition:
– Materials and Textures: Lee removed outdated linoleum in favor of wide plank pine floors, creating a warm, inviting foundation throughout the home. The addition of Phillip Jeffries grasscloth wall coverings introduced texture, adding dimension and cohesion to the common areas.
– Furniture and Fabrics: Antique English armchairs and Dedar fabric coverings bridge traditional elegance with modern vibrancy. Upstairs, patterned wallpapers elevate sloped ceilings’ contours, while a carefully chosen palette of shades and hues carries throughout the bedroom and bathroom designs.
– Color Selection: Lee used iconic paint brands for their historic and modern value. Spiced Apple Cider by Benjamin Moore brings warmth and cheerfulness to the kitchen, marking the space as both festive and welcoming.
– Window Treatments: Transitioning from heavy drapes to Roman shades provided an unobstructed flow of light and offered an open, airy aesthetic.
Real-World Use Cases: Renovating Historic Homes
Renovating historic homes can serve a myriad of purposes:
– Tourism and Hospitality: Many historic homes are being converted into bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels, offering guests a unique glimpse into the past with modern comforts.
– Education and Museums: Restored homes can support educational purposes, providing immersive experiences into historical ways of living.
– High-End Real Estate: Luxury buyers often seek historic properties for their character and potential for a customized modern lifestyle.
Controversies & Limitations
Handling Historical Integrity: Balancing updates while maintaining a building’s historic integrity can lead to controversies. Preservationists may oppose changes seen as detracting from original features.
Renovation Costs: Updating historic properties can become quite expensive, especially when adhering to preservation standards and using premium materials.
Market Forecasts & Industry Trends
The trend towards preserving historic homes shows no signs of slowing. As demand for unique properties grows, conserving architectural history while integrating contemporary elements will become commonplace. Homeowners can expect to encounter increasing regulations and costs linked to historic property renovations.
Insights & Predictions
Looking ahead, designers may increasingly use technology, such as virtual reality, to visualize and plan complex restorations before beginning physical work. We may also see innovations in sustainable materials and methods that allow for environmentally conscious renovations without sacrificing historical accuracy.
Quick Tips for Home Designers
1. Study Historical Context: Before renovating, understand the property’s historical significance and architectural details.
2. Opt for Timeless Materials: Choose quality materials that resonate with the original style while ensuring durability.
3. Seek Expert Advice: Collaborate with experienced contractors and preservationists to navigate the legalities and nuances of historic renovations.
4. Bold Color Choices: Don’t shy away from vibrant colors—they can add personality while providing a modern twist to classic frameworks.
5. Preserve Character: Retain unique architectural features or integrate repurposed elements into new designs.
Architectural Digest insights can provide further inspiration for design and renovation projects. Always ensure your designs pay tribute to the original craftsmanship while meeting modern living requirements. With creativity and respect for history, the intersection of past and present in home design can create truly breathtaking spaces.
