5 minute read
INSIDE LOOK
THE CHESAPEAKE AT SAWGRASS NORTH
Given The Chesapeake’s classic architectural details, flexible floor plan, and luxurious accents, it’s easy to see why so many of Susan Herring’s appointments at Décor Direct begin with homeowners asking to recreate this popular model. So, naturally we asked her to share some behind-the-scenes insights.
When homeowners tour The Chesapeake, the most common reaction we receive is their admiration for the well-appointed aesthetic. For many, it’s the whitewashed hardwood paired with the aqua cabinets and stunning quartz countertops, affording a coastal-chic, yet relaxed vibe. “I just love the clean, fresh, beachy feel of this new Aqua cabinet finish from Wellborn,” said Susan. Along with the finishes, it is the combination of size and positioning that make this kitchen and dining area so desirable.
The kitchen accommodates an enormous island with a direct path to the dining room wet bar, creating the perfect hub for entertaining.
Two-story windows in the great room set the stage for dramatic features throughout The Chesapeake. Providing an abundance of natural light, these windows are guaranteed to bring joy even on an overcast day. The deep coffered ceiling in the great room is another feature that does not go unnoticed. “I incorporated white built-ins in the great room and a lot of wainscotting throughout the home; then I was able to use a bold blue paint color in the coffered ceiling to complement my upholstery selections,” explained Susan. She also featured a stone fireplace that gives the home a cozy feel while providing a sense of warmth amid the pastel, navy, and whitewash palette.
If you need another reason to fall in love with this floorplan, look no further than the owner’s suite. Its generous size offers plenty of space to make it your own personal oasis. Susan carried the same color palette from the open-concept living areas into the bedroom with a navy linen covered desk and a bachelor chest that provide a bold contrast to the white planking on the bed wall. “I kept the balance of the walls neutral and added a touch of color in the tray ceiling, guaranteed to draw your eyes upward,” said Susan. Custom drapery in this room adds a fun, bold pattern to the space and complements the colors in the bedding and upholstered headboard.
Just when you think it cannot get any better, you’ll find yourself in what is arguably one of our most luxurious bathroom designs. While the included bath footprint is already large, the luxury owner’s options make the bathroom and closets even more spacious. “I chose SW 6247 KRYPTON Luxury Owner’s Bath II because I loved the idea of the window seat,” said Susan. “Let’s face it, even social butterflies need a tranquil place to curl up with a good book from time to time!” Susan applied a bold wallpaper to the window seat alcove and flanked it with wall sconces to give the space a cozy ambiance. She reintroduced the navy theme by selecting Wellborn’s Bleu cabinet finish and then optimized the look with a white and gray contrasting wall and floor tile. Even the smallest of details, such as the pebble tiled shower floor, have resonated with our homeowners, making this bathroom one to remember.
Despite the blurred line between one’s personal life and career that comes with working from home, many of us have adapted and grown fond of this new routine. Almost every Schell home includes a flex room that can be converted to a study. In this model, the study is positioned at the front of the home to effectively divide work and leisure. The Dove finish that Susan selected for the study built-ins mixes well with the blue and aqua tones throughout the remainder of the home. “I love the calm, casual feel of this room, and how private it is. It’s a space I would love to work in,” added Susan.
There are so many design features that make this floorplan the ultimate showstopper, but what we love most about The Chesapeake is its flexibility, giving buyers the opportunity to personalize it based on individual preferences. This model even features laundry room options, so, whether you want a large “family center” with built-ins or a laundry room with separate walk-in pantry, The Chesapeake has you covered. It also offers something that very few of our homes include: a secondary bedroom on the first floor, which is great for in-laws, guests who need accessible accommodations, or a second home office. You can even convert this bedroom into a private, second owner’s suite for in-laws.
When you venture upstairs, you will be surprised by the roominess of the loft. Large enough to divide into separate entertaining spaces, that is exactly how Susan chose to outfit it. She created two areas: one that could be used as a second living space and another for playing games, building puzzles, or doing homework. SW 6239 UPWARD
Susan did an impeccable job of making the loft feel like an extension of the first floor living areas by continuing the wainscotting and adding small art pieces and rope sconces to maintain the casual, coastal vibe. Another feature that is a big hit for families with children is the included Jack and Jill bathroom that can be accessed from the loft and third bedroom. In this model, Susan chose to feature Bath 4, creating a private upstairs suite off the fourth bedroom for overnight guests. The finished bonus room above the garage—not featured in this model—offers yet another suite option for those with large families and/or frequent visitors. And believe it or not, you can even add a fifth bedroom to the rear of the loft if you don’t need the extra lounge space.
What was once our sanctuary—separated from the hustle and bustle of daily life, careers and social interactions—now functions as our workplace, a makeshift gym, and a place of stability. We believe that creating beauty around us stimulates productivity, improves relaxation, and promotes happiness. Thus, it is even more significant now, as we weather a pandemic, that our surroundings are comfortable and curated. If you are looking for the perfect new home in coastal Delaware and you haven’t found your match, visit one of our beautiful models and let us help you design your dream.
