This Rye Colonial Gets a Coastal Renovation From Erika Mercurio Design

A Colonial home in Rye underwent a significant renovation, spearheaded by interior designer Erika Mercurio of Erika Mercurio Design, to create an open, casual, and elegant space suitable for an active family that frequently entertains. The homeowners sought a design that could comfortably accommodate their immediate family while also transitioning into an inviting setting for large gatherings, holiday celebrations, and sports team events. The aesthetic was envisioned to be relaxed and unfussy yet beautiful. Key aspects of the remodel included an improved open-concept layout on the ground floor, a redesigned entry, and the addition of a master bedroom and bathroom upstairs. Mercurio's primary focus was to brighten all areas, aiming for an airy and inviting atmosphere. The design inspiration originated from a specific blue swatch from a painting by artist David Gonville, which became a foundational color for a large family room painting. This blue influenced many subsequent design choices. The designer also incorporated reclaimed wood, sourced from a local lumber yard, to introduce warmth and balance. These elements allowed for the integration of more modern choices with cooler tones, ensuring a harmonious blend that extended to details like deep gray window trim, fireplace tile, and slate backsplash. Mercurio described the overall design as having a coastal, California-inspired vibe, characterized by a relaxed atmosphere and the use of natural elements in contemporary ways. Her personal style, which she terms "modern bohemian," involves combining contemporary design with unique, soul-filled vintage items. She frequently sources special pieces like rugs, accessories, textiles, furniture, and books from flea markets and antique stores. Examples in this home include pillows made from vintage African textiles, a Swedish rag rug in the kitchen, a vintage kilim in the laundry room, and authentic African glass beads on the coffee table. These items not only add aesthetic appeal but also support the global design economy. Bright white walls were used throughout the house to serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing color to be introduced purposefully in selected areas. A significant portion of the color comes from the homeowners' collection of paintings by David Gonville, known for their bold, saturated colors and connection to the ocean. These artworks provide a vibrant contrast to the home's neutral, natural tones. Several existing family furniture pieces were integrated into the new design to personalize the space, such as a wood coffee table in the family room, a wood hutch in the kitchen, and a kitchen table crafted by the homeowner’s father from Canadian maple wood. The designer emphasized the selection of furnishings that were beautiful, durable, and within budget, highlighting the Crypton fabric on the couch and the Carrara quartzite countertops as favorite durable choices. The powder room is noted as a standout space, featuring custom wallpaper (Mr. Blow by Abnormals Anonymous), matte clay tile from Vietnam, brass fixtures, a vessel sink on a reclaimed wood countertop, and a Waterworks rug. Mercurio advocates for bold design choices in powder rooms due to their small, contained nature and high guest visibility. All artwork in the home, created by David Gonville, further reinforces the connection to the ocean and features an encaustic technique that creates vibrant, popping blues. The article concludes with design tips from Erika Mercurio, encouraging the use of natural materials, impactful lighting, abundant plants, physical samples for material selection, and creating a lived-in, meaningful home environment. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CoastalStyle #ErikaMercurioDesign #ColonialHome #OpenConcept #VintageDecor #NaturalMaterials #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CoastalStyle #ErikaMercurioDesign #ColonialHome #OpenConcept #VintageDecor #NaturalMaterials