A double-height custom fireplace wall, a years-long search for the perfect blue, and soft lilac accents define an estate designed to outlast trends.
In Robyn's Words
Valentine Lane in Old Brookville, NY: Designed in 2018, this home remains one of my favorite projects and a wonderful example of why timeless design is so important.
One of the greatest compliments a designer can receive is returning to a project years later and finding that it still feels relevant, elegant, and beautiful. The furnishings, finishes, and architectural details selected for this home have truly stood the test of time. Given the investment clients make in their homes, creating spaces that remain stylish and functional for years to come should always be a primary design goal.
The greatest challenge, and ultimately the most rewarding feature, of this room was the dramatic fireplace wall. Spanning nearly 15 feet wide and soaring approximately 20 feet high, it demanded attention and needed to become the room’s defining focal point.
As interior designers, inspiration often comes from unexpected places. The concept for this feature wall was inspired by a visit to my local bank, where I noticed beautifully detailed stained panel molding. Once I recognized the importance of this architectural element, I began developing a design that would transform the fireplace wall into a grand statement piece.
To create a cohesive look, I incorporated the rich wood tones found in the client’s dining room table. Working closely with my cabinet maker, we matched the fireplace wall to the dining table. This creates continuity between the spaces and adding warmth and sophistication to the overall design. The fireplace surround was also custom fabricated, ensuring every detail was thoughtfully considered.
The sectional was carefully sourced to achieve the perfect scale, comfort level, and color for the room. Every element was selected to complement the architecture while creating a welcoming space for everyday living and entertaining.
The family room offered a different challenge. While the room was generously sized and featured beautiful architectural details, it needed a focal point and a sense of energy.
Comfort was a top priority, so we began by selecting a sofa that would be inviting and functional for family use. However, none of the manufacturer’s standard fabric options provided the exact look we envisioned. I wasn’t simply looking for a blue sofa, I was looking for the perfect blue. After an extensive search, we found the ideal shade, and looking back, that decision became one of the most important design choices in the room.
The fireplace mantel was redesigned and finished with a classic porcelain surround that added elegance without overwhelming the space. Comfortable, family-friendly chairs were selected to accommodate children and pets while still contributing strong design character and complementing the room’s architecture.
We intentionally kept the coffee table simple, allowing the accessories and styling elements to become focal points. A classic area rug completed the design, adding texture and warmth while reinforcing the timeless aesthetic. Even years later, this room remains fresh, sophisticated, and effortlessly stylish.
The inspiration for the primary bedroom began with a simple request from the client: she wanted touches of lilac incorporated into the design.
To introduce this color in a refined and sophisticated way, we selected elegant accent chairs upholstered in a beautiful lilac fabric. These pieces provided the perfect pop of color while maintaining the room’s serene and luxurious atmosphere.
The result is a space that feels both classic and inviting, a perfect balance of comfort, sophistication, and timeless style. From the furnishings to the color palette, every element works together harmoniously. The bedroom continues to feel current and beautiful years after its completion.
This project is a reminder that great design is not about following trends. It is about creating thoughtful, personalized spaces that remain beautiful, functional, and relevant for years to come.
This project was completed as part of Robyn's full service design work for homeowners in Old Brookville and surrounding areas.
Spanning nearly 15 feet wide and roughly 20 feet high, the wall was clad in custom stained panel molding and matched to the client's dining table, turning a soaring architectural feature into the room's defining statement.
None of the manufacturer's standard fabrics had the right tone, so an extensive search was done to find the exact shade of blue. That single color choice became one of the most defining elements of the room.
The client requested touches of lilac, which were introduced through elegant accent chairs upholstered in a soft lilac fabric, adding a refined pop of color while keeping the room serene and luxurious.
About the Author
Founder & Principal Designer•Interiors by Just Design
Robyn is the visionary behind Interiors by Just Design, bringing decades of experience and an impeccable eye for detail to every project. Her signature approach centers on casual elegance, timeless, classic pieces layered with texture, light, and the natural materials that define refined coastal living across Long Island and the Hamptons.