Houston is home to a variety of architectural styles, yet it’s the city’s mid-century structures that best represent Houston’s ethos of restoration. Historic rainfall, damaging flood waters, and hurricane winds are no strangers to the community. Resilience and honoring what-once-was is at the heart of everything Houstonians value.
Project Name: Pine Hollow
Interior Design:Laura U Interior Design
Architecture: Adam Joseph
Custom Kitchen Build: Bentwood Kitchens
Status: Built
Square Footage: 2,500
Beds/Baths: 3/2
Completion Date: 2016
This mid-century home in the center of the city is a great example of that. Originally built in the 1950s, the residence possesses all the famous mid-century characteristics: massive windows, ranch-style layout, and angular architectural details. The design firm approached the design with historic accuracy in mind. “Our clients both wanted a fun interior that was unique to them. One that married his contemporary style with her whimsical tastes,” says Laura Umansky, founder and creative director of Laura U Interior Design.
The designers focused on space planning and creating conversation zones in the living areas. The homeowners entertain often, and it was important that the home felt airy and open enough to support large gatherings. The Laura U team selected furnishings that improved traffic and kept drapery around the windows spare to accentuate the light.
In the den, a large brass coffee table centers the room. It is made of two parts that according to Umansky “speak to each other,” lending to the blend of the homeowners’ distinct styles. Every room in the home feels oversized, which is why most of the furnishings were custom-designed by the Laura U team. Scale here is very important, as well as the color palette of red, white, and blue, which marries the homeowners’ British and American heritage.
While the fireplace surround in the living room was left completely intact, the kitchen received a major overhaul. Working with Bentwood Kitchens, the Laura U team designed a fun space with a nod to the vibrant colors of mid-century styles. Red lacquered cabinets and yellow counter stools are bright pops, while the large window breathes in the green lawn outside.
A Smeg refrigerator, head-to-toe in Union Jack pattern, brings in the playfulness our British client desired. While more contemporary touches in the master bedroom bring out the masculine look our American client wanted. Together, this home combines their love of each design style, and consequently, for each other.
Laura U
Houston-based Laura U Interior Design specializes in residential interiors that exude warmth, glamour, and practical luxury. Founded in 2006 by award-winning designer Laura Umansky, the firm’s signature Classically Current aesthetic reflects on timeless style with architectural innovation and modern functionality.Laura U’s exceptional work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, including Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors.