Custom Canterbury Colonial: A Bold & Timeless Family Home

Behind the Design

Mar 26

From Tired to Timeless: A Transformation Rooted in Family

Some clients come to me unsure if they should renovate or move. Others are overwhelmed by too many choices. And then there are those who are simply ready.

When I first met the homeowner of this Canterbury Colonial, she was desperate to begin. With four kids, two dogs, and a home that felt tired and uninspired, she half-jokingly said she’d pick up a paintbrush herself if it meant getting started.

I knew right away that this transformation wouldn’t just be about updating finishes or rearranging furniture. It was about bringing new life to a space that had been forgotten—creating a home that felt cohesive, comfortable, and deeply personal.

A Fresh Start for a Busy Household

The clients wanted a home that felt intentional and connected, particularly on the first floor. The kitchen, family room, powder room, and foyer all needed to work together, creating a sense of flow while standing up to the energy of a large, active family. I often say, “You never want to design a house that feels like you need a passport to go from room to room,” and this house is a perfect example of that design principle.

We designed with conversation and comfort in mind—spaces that invited gathering, celebrating, and making memories. But we didn’t stop at just function. We leaned into bold design choices, bringing in elements that made an impact while still feeling timeless.

One of the most striking details? The walls. We painted them black—a rich, dramatic choice that instantly gave the home a sense of sophistication and warmth. Rather than feeling dark or heavy, the color became a backdrop that accentuated every carefully chosen piece of decor, creating a home that felt modern yet deeply rooted in tradition.

Black walls and cabinet contrast dramatically with vibrant green couch in the foyer — Black walls and bold color elevate this high-traffic space with timeless character

Infusing Personality & Meaning

A beautiful home isn’t just about good design—it’s about telling a story. For this family, we wanted to make sure their history was woven into the design in meaningful ways.

We incorporated a treasured family antique sideboard, grounding the space in tradition while making it feel entirely at home in the refreshed interiors.
We built an ancestry wall, showcasing generations of family members and turning an everyday pass-through into something deeply personal.
We brought forgotten spaces back to life, making every room feel like it belonged, not just existing in the background.

Formal dining room with custom built ins next to a bluestone fireplace — Soft textures and sculptural details bring cozy sophistication to everyday dining

Bold Design, Family Warmth: The Final Result

By the time we completed the space, the transformation was undeniable. What was once a disconnected, outdated space became a striking, sophisticated, and welcoming home—one that felt personal, purposeful, and perfectly suited for a family that loves to gather, live, and grow together.

And as for the client, who was ready to pick up a paintbrush herself? She no longer had to. Instead, she walked into a home that was everything she had dreamed of.

Tons of windows light up this living room with exposed beam supports and generous L shaped grey sofa with green accent pillows — A cozy sectional anchors this bright, open space designed for connection and comfort

See More from This Project

Visit our portfolio to view additional images and design details from this space, along with other Boehm Graham Interior Design projects.

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Disclaimer: This case study is provided for informational, educational, and promotional purposes only. The content reflects the specific design process and outcomes for this individual project and should not be interpreted as direct advice for any other home or renovation. Every home and design project is unique, and results may vary based on individual preferences, architectural considerations, and other factors. Boehm Graham Interior Design is not responsible for any design choices made based on the information provided in this article. For professional guidance tailored to your home, we encourage consulting directly with a qualified interior designer.