The imaginative-yet-grounded design of this Des Peres home is rooted in earthy, natural aesthetics and embraces bolder forms of expression. “Our goal was to create a home that felt both elevated and deeply livable,” says the homeowner. “One that reflected how we actually live as a family while still feeling intentional and thoughtfully designed.” Teaming up with Lara Pennington, owner and designer at Lara and Company Interiors, the homeowners shared their distinct nature-driven vision and worked with the design team to smooth out the edges and step out of their comfort zone in their newly-built home.
“My client and I worked very closely, collaborating on every little detail,” says Lara. “We would start each room by sourcing finish materials such as tile, wallpaper, cabinet, countertop and hardware selections. We also did a lot of space planning early in the construction process in order to figure out where furniture would be placed and how it would flow together.” The area of the home that best represents their collaborative efforts is the family room. Dramatic velvet curtains, a bold push from Lara, line a large line of windows. Across the room, two green armchairs soak up the natural light and add a pop of color to the neutral-toned sofa and rug. A fireplace flanked on either side by two built-in shelving units offers additional storage and an opportunity for the homeowners to showcase their personal style through art.
“There are more structured elements throughout the home, but they are softened by moments of whimsy that reflect our family,” the homeowner mentions. “Art and photographs play an important role, along with color choices and natural textures.” In the kitchen, a muted green island anchors the space, and light oak cabinetry adds a touch of brightness to the room. A wood-lined range hood creates an element of interest and ties in nicely to the cushioned island chairs and fabric light fixtures.
“She appreciated color and pattern more than I think she knew she did,” Lara says of the homeowner. This is especially true in the powder room. The space was inspired by butterflies, which reflect special memories the homeowner shared with her late father. “Rather than approaching it literally,” the homeowner says, “we built the design around that shared experience, layering nature-inspired elements with unexpected details like wallpaper on the ceiling and flower sconces.” Dark-painted wainscoting grounds the more eclectic butterfly wallpaper and a light blue patterned paper on the ceiling carries an element of whimsy. The small but impactful details, like the butterfly artwork on the wall and the flower-shaped sconces, truly transport visitors into a playful yet balanced reflection of these special memories.
“One of our favorite spaces in the home is the primary bedroom because it so clearly captures the overall intention behind the design,” says the homeowner. The design process began with a wallpaper that reminded them of the textures of a Monet painting. Attracted to the design’s softness, movement and connection to nature, this wallcovering became the foundation for the entire room. Neutral bedding creates an element of tranquility while pops of muted pinks, blues and greens introduce a bolder, more whimsical element to the primary bedroom. “The final design exceeded our expectations,” the homeowner continues. “The room feels composed and restful, yet layered and expressive.”
Both Lara and the homeowner agree that the finished product would not be the same without their close collaboration. “I’m so thankful for the client’s trust in me to guide her in a direction she didn’t anticipate herself,” says Lara. “I truly believe that design really does impact lives. She believed in my process and, in return, we were able to achieve exceptional results.” The homeowner shares this sentiment. “Beyond the finished home, this project was also a journey of self-discovery for me,” she says. “Through the process, I learned to trust evolution rather than perfection, and to embrace choices that feel authentic even if they challenged my initial assumptions. That sense of growth is felt throughout the home, and it’s part of what makes the spaces feel so personal and meaningful to us.”
Cabinetry: Fox Creek Cabinetry Danielle
Granite/Stone/Countertop: E&B Granite
Stone Fabricator: E&B Granite
Lighting: Wilson Lighting
Furniture: KDR & Design and Detail
Windows & Treatments: KDR
Wallpaper/Wall coverings: KDR
Artwork: KDR
Rugs: Design and Detail
Technology: KDR
