Seeing the Light
“ I always want to create a design that speaks to the client ’ s aesthetic ,” Blakely says . “ In my own house , I was able to realize that to its full potential . The chinoiserie upholstery on the living room chairs has crazy colors of reds and blacks but it ’ s so fun . I like using color in unique and unexpected ways to bring contrast .” Case in point : the brilliant pop of firecracker red that frames the mirror in the hallway contrasts with the black wainscoting , Sherwin Williams ’ s “ Iron Ore ,” creating a consistent use of color palettes throughout the ground floor .
Truth be told , she admits , the mirror was a splurge , crafted by Oomph , a Connecticut company . It reminds her of old school Charleston . “ I love its unique shape ,” she says .
Blakely hated the dark , gloomy living room , with its single slider out to the patio and another one next to it in the kitchen , the only light source . She moved the fireplace , added transom windows on each side as well as floor to ceiling windows , converting her kids ’ one-time playroom to an open , airy dining area .
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l FEBRUARY 2022 93