A recent project was a Craftsman cottage in western Kentucky for my niece and her husband who is an accomplished builder/developer. Located in a private enclave off Kentucky Lake, this home required a thoughtful design to fit its setting. My niece, a lover of blue, and I chose a blue and green color palette for a tranquil atmosphere. The home’s exterior, clad in gray and beige stone with white mortar, features bright aqua shingle siding for a summery feel.

The design cleverly addresses the home’s sloped lot by incorporating a plan that hides part of its size from the street view, maintaining a modest façade while maximizing space inside. The two-story foyer opens into a great room with large cedar beams and expansive windows showcasing lake views. A vintage sailboat model acts as a stylish divider in this space, which is designed for ample seating and easy access to the kitchen and breakfast area, ideal for entertaining.

Adjacent to the foyer is an octagonal dining room with a mix of eclectic and elegant touches, including a Jacobean wallcovering, chinoiserie-inspired curtains, and a striking black-and-gold leopard print rug bordered in blue. Across the hall, the home office is a cozy space with a desk, bookcase, and vibrant wallcovering in blue and green.

The kitchen features pale blue cabinets, a marble hexagon backsplash, and a plaid rug in the adjoining keeping room. The master bedroom, decorated in blue and white, evokes a nautical theme, complemented by an en suite bathroom with hydrangea blue ceilings and wood-trimmed walls.

The house includes several guest bedrooms with unique themes and a large bunk room. Working closely with my niece and her builder husband made this project particularly fulfilling, blending beautiful design with cherished family collaboration.