1996 Decorators' Show House       Rear Stairs

The Rear Stairs bring together the foyer and all the rooms leading from the upstairs and downstairs halls.  Visits to England-in particular to the Cotswolds-inspired the design scheme.  For the residents, the spacious landing and its overscale window have become a "window on the world."  Wrought-iron hinged rods enable the recessed window to accommodate full-panel draperies in a bold heraldic pattern by Osborne and Little.  The scored limestone wall finish unifies the vast area and softens awkward angles.  A wool sisal carpet on the stairs and antique rugs help to create a warm, welcoming ambience.

The legs of the handsome mahogany bench  incorporate circles, squares and inverted obelisks.  Lanterns imported from London light the space.  And the piece de resistance, a suit of armor, stands guard over all.  An English chinoiserie case clock, bamboo hall tree and antique paintings and prints complete this stylish, lived-in composition.  The hutch on the first landing was custom designed to fit the space.