Furnishings & Styling | Bathroom Remodels | First-Floor DesignThe May Residence
A thoughtfully layered first-floor transformation designed for a growing family where traditional architecture meets fresh, coastal warmth.
project overviewA Coastal Take on a Classic Forever Home
With two young children and a desire for both formal and informal living spaces, this home needed to strike a delicate balance: elevated yet welcoming, refined yet deeply livable.
Set in a well-established neighborhood known for its grand entrances, soaring ceilings, and intricate millwork, the home already had beautiful bones. But like many homes of its era, some details felt slightly dated and the overall palette lacked the lightness the homeowners were craving.
Our goal was to reimagine the main level into a cohesive, light-filled home that felt instantly personal—layering in warmth, subtle coastal influence, and thoughtful functionality to support everyday family life.
Design Direction
light, bright, & cohesiveWe unified the entire home in White Dove, creating a soft, seamless backdrop that allows natural light to move effortlessly from room to room.
a subtle coastal influenceRather than leaning overtly coastal, we introduced quiet moments of blue throughout—creating continuity while honoring the home’s traditional foundation.
designed for real lifeEvery material was chosen with intention—from performance fabrics to easy-to-clean rugs—ensuring the home feels as good to live in as it looks.
honoring the architectureFrom arched openings to detailed crown molding, we embraced the home’s original character—refreshing rather than replacing, and allowing those details to shine in a modern context.
The entry sets the tone for everything that follows.
From the moment you step inside, the goal was to create a sense of cohesion that carries effortlessly from one space to the next. The entry introduces the home’s foundation—soft neutrals, warm wood tones, and subtle hints of blue—setting a welcoming, elevated tone without feeling overly formal.
Just beyond, the formal dining room builds on that first impression. A striking blue credenza anchors the space, adding depth and personality, while layered textures and warm finishes keep it feeling inviting rather than rigid. Thoughtfully selected art and framing details tie everything together, reinforcing the home’s balance of refinement and comfort.
Together, these spaces establish the rhythm of the home—connected, intentional, and designed to feel both elevated and lived-in from the very first step inside.
informal living roomThis room became one of the most memorable moments in the home.
A striking blue credenza adds personality while grounding the space, complemented by warm wood tones and thoughtfully selected art. Every detail works together to create a dining experience that feels both refined and welcoming.
formal living roomDesigned to feel polished yet inviting.
The formal living room balances structure with softness. A blue sofa anchors the space, introducing one of the home’s recurring color moments, while layered wood tones and tailored furnishings bring depth and warmth. The result is a space that feels elevated, but never untouchable.
At the heart of the home, the kitchen ties everything together.
girls' bedroomDesigned to feel both playful and elevated.
This bedroom reflects a balance of personality and longevity. Soft layers, thoughtful color moments, and carefully selected furnishings create a space that feels special without being overly themed—allowing it to grow with her over time. Statement lighting adds a touch of whimsy, while the overall palette keeps the room feeling cohesive with the rest of the home.
jill & jill bathroomThis space is where functionality meets standout design.
Custom cabinetry maximizes storage while maintaining a clean, tailored look, and a unique tile selection brings in visual interest and personality. Statement lighting adds just the right amount of sparkle—creating a bathroom that feels both practical for everyday use and elevated enough to feel like a special retreat.
boys' bedroom & bathThese spaces were designed with a quieter, more understated approach.
In the bedroom, we leaned into a more restrained palette and clean lines to create a space that feels grounded and adaptable over time. Nothing overly styled—just thoughtful choices that allow the room to evolve naturally as he grows.
The bathroom follows suit with a straightforward, no-fuss design that still feels considered. Durable materials and streamlined finishes ensure it holds up to daily use, while subtle details keep it aligned with the overall aesthetic of the home.
“Loved working with Lauren and her team! They did an amazing job designing my two living room spaces, foyer, dining room, two bedrooms and two bathrooms!! Best decision ever was to hire Modern by Miles!”
- the maysare you ready?