When the homeowner purchased this Clayton residence in 2016, she partnered with designer Liz McGovern of June Rosselein Interiors to refresh the interiors with new paint and furnishings while preserving the home’s original architectural character. As her lifestyle evolved, she returned nearly a decade later for a more extensive renovation. This time, the goal was to modernize the home while maintaining its original structure, creating spaces that felt updated yet still true to its history.
Liz approached the project as a thoughtful evolution rather than a complete overhaul. Earthy tones and organic materials established a warm foundation, while the homeowner’s global travels — from Morocco and Cuba to Panama and the red rock landscapes of Sedona — shaped the overall direction. “Artifacts, textures and photography collected over the years were included throughout the home to really connect to the homeowner’s experiences,” Liz explains.
The kitchen became the starting point for the renovation. Originally finished with light natural maple cabinetry, the space lacked the depth and character the homeowner desired. The redesign introduced darker cabinetry paired with lighter countertops to create contrast and balance. She had decided to work with Ken Henry of Alspaugh in order to make this happen. “We removed an existing beam and replaced it with a larger one to take the place of a structural support post, to open the kitchen to the adjacent rooms and make it feel more connected to the rest of the home,” says Ken. The window above the sink was lowered to bring in additional natural light and strengthen the relationship to the outdoors. A new butler’s pantry with a glass pocket door added storage and a dedicated prep area, keeping the main kitchen organized for everyday use.
The adjoining hearth room now reflects the homeowner’s love of travel. A stone fireplace served as the focal point, while the surrounding wall — previously covered in ceramic tile — was redesigned to display artifacts and family photographs from around the world. Custom cabinetry throughhout the home from Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath creates visual continuity between the spaces.
In the dining area, the home’s traditional architecture remained intact while contemporary updates introduced new interest. “Adding a light fixture above the table and cork wallpaper on the ceiling made a huge impact in the eating area,” Liz notes.
At the top of the stairs, just outside the primary bedroom, a loft-like sitting area provided a quiet retreat. “New cabinetry with display lighting made the room more functional while beautifully highlighting the objects the homeowner wanted on display,” says Ken. Mustard-colored chairs added warmth and echoed tones used throughout the home, while books, travel mementos and photographs contributed to the space’s collected, personal feel.
In the primary bedroom, inspiration came from a Moroccan rug whose rich colors and patterns guided the room’s palette. Paneled walls painted in a muted green created a calm backdrop for a wood canopy bed that added architectural interest without overwhelming the space. Embroidered pillows and layered bedding introduced texture and personality while maintaining a restful atmosphere.
Throughout the renovation, natural materials — stone, wood, cork and textured textiles — helped unify the home’s organic aesthetic. With a strong passion for travel, the homeowner wanted a space that could display her growing collection of artifacts and photographs while still functioning comfortably for everyday life. “The challenge was achieving a refined update without losing what made the home unique, ensuring the final result felt both timeless and uniquely hers,” adds Liz.
Nearly a decade after their initial collaboration, the home now feels cohesive and deeply personal — the product of a trusted partnership renewed to create a space that serves as both a comfortable retreat and a reflection of a life shaped by travel.
Resources:
Cabinetry: Alspaugh Ken Henry
Granite/Stone/Countertop: Midwest Granite & Stone
Stone Fabricator: DiPrimo
Appliances: Roth Appliances
Lighting: June Roesslein Interiors
Furniture: June Roesslein Interiors
Wood Flooring and Installer: Ambassador Flooring
Carpet and Installer: Ambassador Flooring
Windows & Treatments: June Roesslein Interiors
Wallpaper/Wall coverings: June Roesslein Interiors
Rugs: June Roesslein Interiors
