Margaret Naeve’s interior architectural design in her Southampton home blends vintage and contemporary elements, creating a timeless and unique space.
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Transformation of a 1930s Cape Cod
Margaret Naeve and her husband, Brad, embarked on a five-year remodel of their 1930s Cape Cod home in Houston’s historic Southampton neighborhood. Without the assistance of an architect, they doubled the square footage by raising the roofline while meticulously preserving the home’s original charm. This involved stripping the house down to its studs and rebuilding it from the ground up, showcasing a commitment to both modernization and historical sensitivity.
Interior Architectural Design Philosophy: Blending Eras and Styles
Margaret Naeve’s interior architectural design aesthetic seamlessly merges the old and the new. Her background in antique dealing is evident in her ability to integrate pieces with provenance into a contemporary setting, resulting in spaces that are both unique and inviting. This design philosophy is woven throughout the home, from the textured plaster walls to the curvaceous forms of the furniture, each element carefully selected to embody her distinct vision.
Spatial Design and Functionality
Despite the home’s modest size, Naeve’s interior architectural design expertise creates a sense of spaciousness and comfort. Vaulted ceilings enhance the airy atmosphere, while each room is thoughtfully designed to maximize both beauty and functionality. This approach is exemplified in the sunroom, Naeve’s favorite space, where a vintage fireplace sourced from Provence, a Hans J. Wegner chandelier, and an eclectic mix of retro sculptural chairs harmonize with large-scale contemporary artworks by Tom Meacham.
Art and Decor as Focal Points
The home’s decor is a testament to the couple’s dedication to acquiring pieces they genuinely love. They spent three years searching for the perfect dining chairs, emphasizing the importance of investing in timeless items over fleeting trends. Art plays a prominent role, with a focus on contemporary pieces that create a dynamic interplay with the antique furnishings. The formal living room showcases notable works by artists such as Cheryl Donegan, Clare Rojas, and Davina Semo, alongside vintage furniture, further demonstrating Naeve’s interior architectural design prowess.
Evolving with the Family
Margaret Naeve’s interior architectural design philosophy extends beyond aesthetics. She believes that the best homes develop character over time, reflecting the lives of their inhabitants. Her own home embodies this principle, serving as a testament to her multifaceted roles as a designer, wife, and mother. Through meticulous planning and a willingness to wait for the perfect pieces, she has created a space that can adapt and evolve alongside her family, ensuring its enduring relevance and comfort.
Project Information:
Architect: Margaret Naeve
Area: N/A
Project Year: 2014-2019
Project Location: Southampton, Houston
Main Materials: Plaster, vintage furniture, contemporary art
Project Type: Residential Interior Architectural Design
Photographer: 24designclub
