New Beginnings

Noteworthy home gives Bloomfield Hills couple a fresh start

ARCHITECTuRE:

C-ART DESIGN GROuP, bLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP buILDER:

SEAN D. GARDELLA & ASSOCIATES, bIRMINGHAM

INTERIOR DESIGN:

JENNIFER ASMAR, ASMAR INTERIORS, TROY

TEXT:

JEANINE MATLOW

PHOTOGRAPHY: bETH SINGER

It takes a village to pull off a custom build like this sensational Shingle-style structure. “We had the dream team. It was such a nice collaboration,” Jennifer Asmar, of Asmar Interiors in Troy, relays about the alliance between the architect, builder, and designer who worked on this impressive project for clients who were set to wed. “It was a second marriage for both, so they wanted a fresh start in a new home they could enjoy together,” Asmar notes.

Situated on a wooded corner lot they share with abundant wildlife, the location is especially fitting for the nature-loving couple. Fine finishes and unique architectural touches can be found both inside and outside the residence, which has an effortless flow. “It’s such a nice circulation of space and a great floor plan,” Asmar says. The interiors feature “a transitional look with a mix of traditional and clean elements,” she adds. “We wanted to keep everything classic and timeless.”

The great room is the perfect example, with a marble fireplace flanked by walnut bookcases. Clever details include glass shelves with wood fronts that allow light to filter through. Sofas and chairs in a low-pile velvet sport a neutral palette that blends creams with emerald green. Full-height, sheer ripple-folded drapery panels further soften the space.

A striking bar area off the great room overlooks a wine cellar through an interior window. Oyster marble covers the counter and backsplash, providing just the right contrast against the dark cabinetry, which is structured and thick. In the wine cellar, wall-mounted bottles supported by pegs installed on stacked stone create a dramatic display.

Deluxe details continue throughout the home. In the kitchen, for example, thick quartzite countertops and an oversized glass backsplash play a prominent role. A 10-foot-wide island easily fits four counter stools.

The designer says the collaboration made the endeavor a pleasure. “It really was a

EYE ON DESIGN

Who wouldn’t want to start the day in this lovely breakfast nook? Note how the shape of the table’s base echoes the ceiling’s design.

Beauty Throughout

Clockwise from right: The inviting family room with two comfortable Hickory Chair sofas, the well-appointed kitchen, and a chic bar area stand ready for everything from intimate family gatherings to large parties. Fine finishes and unique architectural elements add special touches.

team effort. Everyone was so well-seasoned and such a good fit,” Asmar says of the project, throughout which she worked closely with the wife. “She knew what she wanted and she was wonderful to work with, and we had people who were all on the same plane.”

One key person was Corey Campbell, architect and owner of C-arc Design Group in Bloomfield Township, where clients come for one-of-a-kind designs. “We take pride in good quality, a nice flow, quality elevation, and a great floor plan with no wasted space. We dedicate every inch of space to the client, and work with the inside and the outside to capture all the views,” he explains.

Builder Sean Gardella, general contractor for Sean D. Gardella & Associates in Birmingham, agrees. “The client respected us as the professionals and allowed us to collaborate to pull off a phenomenal product,” he says.

Gardella was inspired by the custom structure. “It’s remarkably comfortable, yet very sophisticated at the same time,” he says.