12/04/2024
A Creative Space Rooted in History
Designing this multi-function laundry & craft room in a historic home meant blending functionality and creativity while honoring the rich legacy of its past. This home was originally designed by Columbia native, Mary Louise (Hale) LaFond, a true pioneer. In 1899, a local paper described her as “the only successful female architect in the state.” Her innovative designs left a lasting mark, including the creation of the famous “Peanut Brittle” houses, named for their distinctive blocks embedded with local rock, giving the walls a unique texture reminiscent of peanut brittle. These exposed blocks inspired much of the design for this room, including the cabinetry color and slate floors.
We transformed what was once an underutilized space into a hub of productivity and creativity tailored to the homeowners’ hobbies. The husband, now has room for custom framing his own collections and artwork, while the wife, who delights in gift wrapping, enjoys a custom cabinet & desk, designed specifically for her supplies. The children’s craft supplies are organized where they now have dedicated spaces to sit and create.
Every detail was thoughtfully considered:
• A brass-framed, linen-covered bulletin board above the sink, illuminated by a picture light, showcases their children’s art projects.
• Brass and milk glass sconces provide additional task lighting, perfect for detailed art and craft projects.
• Custom cabinets also house everything including a stick vacuum, ironing board, durable faux-wicker laundry baskets, printer, mat board cutter, etc. — all within dedicated spaces to keep them neatly tucked away.
To tie it all together, we echoed the walnut and brass finishes from the kitchen & breakfast room, creating a cohesive flow throughout the home. This room isn’t just about function; it’s about creating a space where artistry, family, and tradition come together.
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Custom Cabinetry:
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