March 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS
REDEFINING MODERN LIVING on the EAST COAST
words Karine Monie
photos Brian Wetzel
interior design Melissa & Miller
Color served as the driving inspiration behind this home, nestled just outside Philadelphia on the East Coast of the United States. Guided by the homeowners’ impressive art collection, the design team at Melissa & Miller expertly blended vibrant and moody hues—minty sage, deep plum, emerald, and duck egg blue—to create interiors that are both striking and highly functional. The result is a dwelling brimming with energy, character, and fresh ideas—perfect for those who value thoughtful design.
The project was commissioned by a married couple in their 60s, who sought to downsize from a larger home while retaining a sense of sophistication and a flair for entertaining. “We wanted the house to reflect the creativity in both husband and wife: polished, well-traveled yet not flashy,” explains Melissa Urdang Bodie, co-founder of Melissa & Miller. Long-time residents of the Philadelphia area, the couple desired a single-level home that was warm, welcoming, and conducive to hosting guests. Their open-minded, decisive nature allowed the design team to explore bold, unconventional choices.
A COLORFUL APPROACH
Abandoning traditional white kitchens, Melissa & Miller embraced a non-traditional approach that celebrated color as a central theme. Starting with a neutral base in the central living area, the design team built out a spectrum of vivid accents across the home:
- Kitchen: The calm kitchen features a refreshing minty sage hue (Farrow & Ball Eddy) paired with a soft sage De Gournay wallpaper, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere.
- Living Area: The central living room is painted in a warm white, offering a subtle backdrop that allows bolder colors in adjoining spaces to shine.
- Private Spaces: In the den, moody midnight tones (Farrow & Ball Hague Blue) create a contemplative setting, while the home bar and cigar room are awash in rich plum tones (Farrow & Ball Brinjal). The two bedrooms present contrasting moods—one with duck egg blue accented by hints of blush, and the other in crisp, burnt orange with wheat details.
SPECIAL DETAILS AND LOCAL ARTISTRY
In collaboration with architect Neil Young, the design of the bar area features lateral mesh metal shelves, setting the stage for the “Cigar” artwork that became the focal point of the room’s color palette. The team also placed a strong emphasis on incorporating artisans, small makers, and female designers into the project. Local woodworkers such as East Otis crafted the L-shaped bookshelves that flank the stepped-down living room, while pieces from Nat Fry, Hoffman Hardware, and large globe pendants from Cuff in LA add bespoke touches throughout the home. Luxurious throw pillows from Aldridge & Supple (London) and a curated selection of high-end fabrics, wallpapers, and rugs from renowned suppliers complete the layered, textured interiors.
DETAILS
- ENTRY: Wall lights by Apparatus.
- LIVING ROOM: L-shaped Varickk sofa by Maiden Home with Schumacher fabric. Elyse freeform coffee table by Eternity Modern. Sumo chair and Sumo ottoman by Holly Hunt. 1960s vintage Czech chairs from 1stdibs with Rogers and Goffigan fabric. Maker’s chair by Lawson Fenning. Amber small Soda tables from Comerford. Suspended lighting by Cuff Studio. Potosi area rug by Erik Lindstrom.
- DINING ROOM: Lance dining chairs by Palecek with Brook Perdigon fabric. Stave dining table by Black Creek Mountain. Mollino large tiered chandelier by Visual Comfort. Stella sconces by Lostine.
