British interior designer Kelly Hoppen wrote, “The whole experience of ‘coming home’ is one we value more and more in a world that is fast, noisy, and at times, threatening.”

As a designer, I have one goal: that people walking into a space I’ve designed feel instantly welcomed, relaxed, and inspired. Such was the case for this model home I designed for Silverstone Building Co. The builder, Ken Swain, and Silverstone’s broker, Ben Proctor, both give me the space to do my job, but also offer feedback to keep improving the presentation and function of every home that hits the market. 

A model home, I believe, must be designed to appeal to all (or at least most) homebuyers, but also requires touches that make it memorable and distinguishable from others. In new construction, we don’t have the luxury of time and an unlimited budget. We must work within the built-in constraints of the architectural plan we are showcasing and the capabilities of each supplier or subcontractor. 

 

I consider every finished detail for its effect on the overall look and feeling I want to create in each house. I am inspired by trends that are rooted in history, such as the modern version of a patterned encaustic tile used in the kitchen backsplash. The kitchen also features ample storage in custom cabinetry painted in a shade of white. The island countertop is a light quartz with contrasting black countertops on the perimeter cabinets, which complement the black slate appliances and black hardware. 

The two-story great room is anchored by the fireplace and a large chandelier. The fireplace wall features knotty alder cabinets and floating shelves in a warm chestnut-brown custom stain, which contrasts well with the black accents throughout the home. The linear stair railings are custom fabricated by a local welder and have their own sculptural quality.

 

The front door with sidelites and transoms allow natural light to flood the two-story entry area. The two wall sconces provide a great frame for artwork or a mirror in the entry. Light fixtures act as the home’s jewelry, providing a beautiful accent in each location, illuminating and bringing interest to simple spaces and blank walls.  

Silverstone’s huge windows bring the outdoors in, and the contrasting black window trim creates a frame to view the picture outside. Huge glass sliding doors help illuminate the space as well.

When this home was shown as a model, I filled the rooms with the essentials to showcase the possibilities for comfortable but stylish daily living. Furnishings keep the space feeling open, yet provide ample seating for entertaining. It is now home to a family creating memories

every day. 

 

Wilhelm joined D3 Interiors as an interior designer in 2009. Her background in fine art and art history is a major influence on her design work. She specializes in residential new construction, remodels, basement finishes, window coverings, and small commercial projects. She lives on an acreage north of Syracuse with her busy family.

Brianne Wilhelm and D3 Interiors was recognized with a Gold award for this project at the ASID Nebraska/Iowa Chapter annual awards held in September 2021.