Situated atop the Nebraska prairie plains, this new home construction project is a striking study in angles, materials, and scale. The marriage of stone, wood brackets, and a variety of siding textures gives the home an architectural appreciation. The handsome exterior gives way to a grand interior, designed by Lisa Cooper, Allied Member, ASID, professional interior designer with Interiors Joan and Associates, especially for her client and their lifestyle.
The homeowner likes to entertain often, and they appreciate a fluid, open concept floor plan, however at their core, they are very casual people and didn’t want their home to feel too serious or fussy. The great room is very open and segues into a main floor bar and four-seasons room. We integrated a floor-to-ceiling retractable glass door to separate the spaces for more intimate entertaining, giving them multiple ways to use this single floor plan. The design offers her clients several options in how they use the living space, and the flexibility fits their lifestyle perfectly.
A color palette of earthen tones, with slate grays, harvest golds, and naturals sets the tone for this casual retreat. Although the many textures and natural materials give the design an approachable feeling, the collection of furnishings and overall motif is sophisticated. Natural stone accent is carried throughout the home’s main floor, lending a rustic appeal to the aesthetic. Some of the home’s unique amenities include a large bar and four-seasons room area located off the great room, a wine cellar and tasting room in the lower level, and a spacious kitchen and pantry area.
This home’s design was derived as an homage to the setting and the architecture, while honoring the homeowner’s way of life. As people mature and settle into their lifestyle, they also settle into the reality and acceptance of their individual style preferences. This couple was confident with what felt comfortable to them, and they ultimately chose to transition from a soft contemporary influence to wrapping themselves in a quieter, cozier atmosphere and architecture. Cooper’s design solution for this transition met their needs by putting aside previous conceptions of their more modern influence and tuning in to what they are presently desiring, which is a warm and casual home to share with friends and family.
DESIGNER BIO Lisa Cooper, Allied Member ASID
How was your interest in design sparked? I have always had an interest in architecture and design. The ability to create environments that bring people together and generate energy is key.
Experience/Qualifications: I earned my bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from UNL and established myself in 1993 as a designer in Omaha. I have received The Bala Award (Best in American Living) and several ASID awards, including Best in Show.
Community involvement: ASID Member
What is your favorite spot in your own home? Our great room. Sun floods this space, drawing me to it all year round. I also like the ambiance that a fireplace offers on a cold and snowy winter day.
Design Tip: Less is more! I like rooms to be serene and harmoniously balanced as too many strong elements demand your attention.
