Basement Goes Old World
This main living space
was a drywall oblivion, cut off from the first floor. So we
gave it a "European wine cellar" feel: brick arches, stucco piers, rustic beams, glazed beadboard
walls and a large, stone fireplace. An entire corner was removed
(including the door) at
the bottom of the stair "chute" to open up the flow to the main
floor. Oversize travertine floor tiles make the stair foyer glow,
while custom bi-fold french doors lead you into the study and hearth
rooms. Wrought iron panels form a delicate screen between these rooms.
The owners say it has finally become a place to retreat to. . . not
from!