Dream Team

Author:

Linda Sullivan of Sullivan Design Studio, in conjunction with Tobin Dougherty Architects, designs a family’s dream home. 

Photos by Bernard Andre

“Having a background in interior architecture, we understand first-hand the importance of a unified vision for creating a successful project,” says Linda Sullivan, “Our job is not only to represent the intention of the architect, but to make sure the client’s voice is heard throughout the entire architecture-design-build process.” Here that translated into a home that, while grand in scale, feels inviting, warm and comfortable with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.

The sectional sofa is by Flexform.

The client, a couple with one daughter still living at home, had come across Sullivan’s work in a local publication. The discovery that she’d previously worked with their architect, Tobin Dougherty, sealed the deal.

“They wanted a warm yet modern home – two adjectives that are not often used in the same sentence, let alone in a family home,” says Sullivan. “To achieve it Dougherty, who’s known for this style, integrated warm woods into a modern base.” Sullivan highlighted the home’s warmth by bringing in textiles and splashes of bright color. The client’s art collection builds on the architecture and the interior design, adding another layer of welcome. 

The kitchen cabinetry, by Ralph King, is topped by White Princess leathered quartzite. The custom pendants are from 3 form Light Art.

The clients were interested in an open floor plan without a lot of defining walls. While beautiful and striking Sullivan admits that this style often poses a challenge. “How do you ensure each room serves its intended function and purpose in the home?,” she points out. Plus the clients wanted to put the pool table in the middle of the home. Pulling the felt’s distinctive blue color into the design of the surrounding rooms seamlessly integrates it into the design of the rest of the home. She ensured that there was plenty of room around the table encouraging its frequent use. The result adds an energetic note to the space and underlines the home’s playful, family-oriented spirit.

“The client’s personality is clearly represented through the use of color and personalized art sprinkled throughout the home,” says Sullivan, “The overall open plan feels intimate, embraced by the warmth of the finishes, within a modern structure.”

A custom pendant from 3 Form Light Art hangs over a table by Dzine.

“The clients were excited to see everything come together,” she concludes, “They feel it represents them completely and although the process can be long for many ground-up projects, it was worth the wait!”