Brilliant Definition

“For Cheri and Ron, it’s all about livability, family and each other.” – Karen Pepper, interior designer

A crystal candelabra echoes the dramatic mood of the exquisite powder room.

Cheri and Ron love adventure. They love to bike over rugged terrain. They love to hike and uncover hidden natural treasures. They love to spend their free time in glorious discovery. Cheri and Ron are doers who embrace and welcome change. They are continually inspired by what lies ahead – whatever that might be. And nowhere is that more apparent than in their new urban setting.

This Clayton-based couple met 25 years ago and began a residential journey that has ultimately led them to the stunning condo at The Crescent in Clayton that they now share with their high-school-age son, Clay. The urban space also serves as home base for their two college boys, Austin and Alex. And with a courtyard green space for a silky black Lab named Sabrina and a loving beagle, Daisy, the family dogs feel right at home.

Well-known local interior designer Karen Pepper of Edwin Pepper Interiors was called upon to turn the brand-new space into the reality that her clients envisioned. “Karen was involved from the blueprints to the final hanging of the artwork. She immediately knew what we wanted,” says Cheri. Karen’s design philosophy and expertise from project concept to completion is evident in all of the details and furnishings in the building’s magnificent lobby, including the large-scale Jerusalem stone flooring with six-inch circular cuts of onyx, which complement the space’s 23-foot honey-onyx column and nearly 15-foot-high mirror, all reflecting the signature look of The Crescent.

Touted as one of the most handsome buildings in St. Louis, The Crescent, a high-end residential condominium located in downtown Clayton, is where this adventure-seeking, travel-loving family has found their niche. The development offers a sophisticated and carefree living style with upscale retailers and restaurants just a few steps away. Quite a change for a family on the go – whose adventures have included the custom building of two homes and the rehabbing of an 85-year-old Clayton gem. “We loved our old home in Clayton,” says Cheri, “but it was becoming overwhelming for us. There was always something that needed to be done. So when I approached Ron with the idea of condo living, he was excited and intrigued. After all, it could be another great adventure.”

And so began a new chapter in the lives of this fun-loving couple, who seem to never have left the honeymoon stage. In fact, Ron proudly admits that his favorite room in their new home is “anywhere my wife happens to be.” And there are so many rooms from which to choose!

“Both Cheri and Ron communicated a simple, relaxed and luxurious lifestyle they were ready to embrace, which in turn created the spark and inspiration for their home’s design,” says Karen. “They did not want to completely desert the traditional comforts of their past residences, but they were ready for a change. The design was a melding of the old meeting the new. For Cheri and Ron, it’s all about livability, family and each other. This is their priority. This is how they wanted their home to function and feel.”

Their new urban space is certainly a study in contrasts and a nod to an eco-minded lifestyle. According to Karen, “when designing this space, a strong consideration was given to geometric proportions, contrast and composition, with a retro revival influence.” Light walls complement wide-plank espresso bamboo flooring. In the breakfast room, a custom table base is designed with an exotic wood, rich in tone, mimicking the beautiful espresso floors. A glittering chandelier enhances the surrounding lights and adds an unexpected, sparkling touch to the natural surroundings, as do the Swarovski crystal pendant lights that reign supreme above the breakfast bar in the kitchen.

The gathering room off the kitchen continues the minimal, organic feel with neutral, textural and sculptural materials. The comfy sectional sofa creates an intimate setting that invites casual conversation, and a delightful window seat takes great advantage of the fabulous views of downtown Clayton and practically begs the family to take time out to read a book or relax with a cup of morning coffee.

And when it's time to entertain, the family has a perfect spot in the harmoniously arranged, sophisticated living space in front of their modern spark fireplace – a streamlined and dramatic take on traditional. Truly magnificent is the expansive window that mimics The Crescent's unique, contoured architecture. Spanning the entire wall, Karen has successfully dressed the window with a mixture of different suede panels reflecting the upholstered furniture in the rest of the space and bringing attention to the outside views of the cityscape. 
 
The dining room is a melody of modern and traditional. The family's dining table was paired with new host and hostess chairs that complement their newly upholstered side chairs, and the china cabinet showcases important family collectibles. “This space really defines the family by integrating the couple's past and their exciting future at The Crescent,” says Karen.

Cheri is especially excited about her new master bath. “It's very spa-like,” says Cheri. “Even when we travel, I miss my own bathroom! It even has a TV. I've always dreamed of a luxury like that.” Indeed the bathroom is something to be rivaled, from chocolate-colored floor tiles that resemble leather, to the glass and bamboo accents on the tub wall that showcase this alluring, tranquil retreat.

The master sitting room opens to both the master bedroom and the living room, and it is adjacent to the striking baby grand piano, an heirloom that is especially important to the family. The piano's rounded shape ideally accentuates the crescent-shaped window. “The couple – like the design of the home – is fresh and informal, elegant yet relaxed,” says Karen.

Cheri and Ron couldn't be happier to have embarked on this urban adventure. “We all love it here,” says Cheri. “It was the best move we've ever made. Ron especially loves the condo's electronics system because he got to design it. And I have the biggest kitchen and closets I've ever had. We miss nothing from our former homes. We have the best of both worlds – an urban lifestyle in the Clayton area and a home that we adore. Ron even walks to work now!” Ron chimes in, “I've never been more comfortable anywhere else we've lived.”