Look Inside the Tuckernuck Co-Founder’s Georgetown Rowhouse

September and Michael Votta, co-founder of Tuckernuck, undertook a renovation of their 2,310-square-foot Georgetown rowhouse, which they acquired in 2021. The objective was to create a harmonious aesthetic, introduce a cohesive color scheme, and imbue the space with elements reflecting the family's narrative, while also accommodating the demands of a busy family life with two young boys. The existing renovations had established a functional living space, but a unified design vision was still required. Melissa Welker, the principal designer from Atlanta-based Melissa Lacy Design, was enlisted to lead the project. Her scope of work encompassed the living room, dining room, kitchen, back terrace, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Welker's design philosophy centers on an elevated, well-curated palette that fosters a dialogue between various textures, styles, and historical periods. She emphasizes the importance of a strong client-designer relationship, built on trust and mutual understanding, especially given the inherent stresses and potential complications of design projects. Her initial approach involves in-depth research with clients to identify their preferences, perceptions of specific rooms and elements, and to establish a common visual language. Key goals for the renovation included increasing natural light throughout the home, enhancing storage capabilities, and unifying the entire residence with a chic and cohesive style. Given September Votta's profession, working extensively with fabrics, the design aimed to provide a visual respite from patterns, promoting a sense of calm. The design process involved developing mood boards through image selection, online inspiration, and sketches to ensure the space felt authentic, original, and sophisticated. The rowhouse, originally constructed in 1889, presented challenges, particularly in creating effective storage solutions. Welker's team implemented innovative ideas, such as adding a closet off the dining room for storing strollers, coats, and bags, a suggestion from the client. A custom bench with hidden storage was also integrated into the entry area to conceal shoes, packages, and mail. In the living room, the primary objective was to maximize light exposure, a common issue in rowhouses with windows only at the front and back. The design focused on creating an airy, bright, and cozy atmosphere with ample seating for the family of four. The space was conceived to be both family-friendly and elegantly edited. Notable elements included window treatment fabric from Rose Tarlow, sofa fabric from McKinnon and Harris, and chair fabric from Pierre Frey. Additional custom touches included a Besselink & Jones floor lamp with a KRB NYC lampshade, a Mike Diaz mirror from Blackman Cruz, and Forbes & Lomax light switches. The dining room's design commenced with a piece of art by Marcel Rozek, sourced from Illa Gaunt Art Consulting, which served as a foundational inspiration. A deliberate contrast was created between a Cox London chandelier and the modern artwork. A plate rack, displaying plates from La Touile a Loup, addressed an previously awkward wall space. Rose Tarlow fabric was used for the chairs, and linen wallcovering by Patterson Flynn via Schumacher completed the room's aesthetic. The kitchen, having recently undergone a refresh, received Rimini Rib wallcovering from Schumacher. Initially applied to the walls, the material's aesthetic appeal led to its extension onto the ceiling. Custom doors with LeMont hardware and floors painted with Farrow & Ball's Slipper Satin further enhanced the space. The primary suite was designed to optimize livability and introduce serene elements. Electric custom shades were installed to control light. Fabric from the French retailer Antoinette Poisson, a favorite of September's, was incorporated into the headboard, a vintage bench, lamp shades, and the bathroom. Other additions included Dedar fabric for a yellow settee, Soane Britain sconces, and a rope mirror from Mecox NYC in the bathroom. The overall impact of the redesign is described as transforming the home into a sanctuary through thoughtful integration of art, texture, and spatial flow. Large-scale tapestries, artwork, and strategic mirror placement on the main floor helped to anchor the spaces. The calming linen wallcovering and subtle textures contributed significantly to the home's enhanced ambiance. The family expressed contentment with the increased storage and the serene, beautiful palette established throughout their residence. #GeorgetownRowhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelissaLacyDesign #FamilyHome #LuxuryInteriors #StorageSolutions #CohesiveDesign #WashingtonDC #GeorgetownRowhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelissaLacyDesign #FamilyHome #LuxuryInteriors #StorageSolutions #CohesiveDesign #WashingtonDC