designer
linda mauck smith
rooms
living room, dining room, mudroom, powder room, home offices, primary bedroom, kids’ bedrooms, lower level, outdoor spaces
location
shaker heights, ohio
style
modern transitional
cranlyn residence
when a former east coast couple moved to shaker heights with their young children at the onset of the pandemic, they sought a designer to help bring their home to life. in linda, they found the perfect partner.
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Working together over Zoom for the first six months of the relationship (and beyond, in-person), Linda guided them through every decision from molding and trim updates to fabric selection.
The first goal was to make the living room family-friendly yet elevated. Nothing was to be too precious—the space was meant to be lived-in, appropriate for all ages. Fabrics and finishes were important; everything needed to be easily cleaned.
The whole home palette began in this space with the idea for daylight to be plentiful. Blues, caramels and creams reflect the light rather than absorb it. Window treatments were kept minimal for the same reason. A built-in wall unit, original to the home, was disassembled and overhauled; wallpaper backing, updated hardware and curated styling make it the new star of the room. In the adjacent dining space—where the family eats dinner together nightly—the color palette continues and is greeted by elegant wallpaper and a modern chandelier.
In the first floor hallway, a mudroom was created with fully custom cabinetry. Cubbies, hooks and drawers offer a home for everything; the kids can drop bags, shoes, hats and coats with ease and minimal clutter.
On the lower level of the home, the family desired a large space where messes could be made and entertainment could be enjoyed. Carefully-chosen finishes allow for easy cleanup, and abundant built-ins with baskets offer a place for every board game, toy and craft. Furniture is durable and withstands jumping; when a pillow fort is required, the entire space can be easily put back together. The family’s artwork proudly hangs on the walls.