the space by bringing in some more white.
We also stuck with stained cabinetry, which
doesn’t show wear as quickly as painted
cabinets will—and is easier to touch up.
Though the client wanted marble or
soapstone counters with an integrated slab
sink, they were concerned about durability,
as both are very soft stones. We ended up
settling on Barroca Soapstone. Though it
is soft and can scratch like marble, it is far
less susceptible to staining. When you oil
or wax the counters (part of normal maintenance
with Soapstone), most scratches
will disappear. Over time, this creates a
beautiful patina.
The staircase was inspired by a favorite
local spot, Stemwinder, in Ludlow. Our
clients loved their staircase’s simplicity and
heft and wanted to create something similar
for their home, but with a little bit more
polish. (Stemwinder’s stairs are rebar and
rough-cut lumber.) We sourced hand-hammered
raw steel rods for the balusters,
Douglas Fir similar to the existing beams
for the railing and posts and created a 3D
design to build from. Once we removed
the existing carpet and treads, we realized
Photo Credit: Lindsay Selin
68 VERMONT MAGAZINE