Architect Madison Spencer adds some giddyap to a horse country house.
Call it a job hazard.
But, he says, “I loved it so much that I moved in.”
Working on a sprawling 18th-century horse farm, Spencer drew inspiration from the picturesque setting, adding the illusion of age to an otherwise modern home.Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Remilled oak boards from about 6 miles worth of paddock fencing got repurposed for the walls and kitchen cabinets.
Experiment With Paint
Covering bookcase interiors in his go-to Farrow & Ball Oval Room Blue (No.
“Paint doesn’t cost much, and I’m always looking for inexpensive tricks,” he says.
“A bar behind glass becomes all sparkle and fun,” he says.
Spencer added detail with hardware bought from Whitechapel.
The delft tile on the backsplash contrasts with countertops made of honed Virginia soapstone.
“It’s soft but indestructible, and I love its veining,” Spencer says.
“It’s an old-school pattern that adds depth but isn’t so in your face.
It’s like looking at clouds,” he says.
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
“It reflects the light and makes things feel more spacious.
A dark floor can be like a black hole,” he says.
“I love layering pieces of history and family lore that define a life,” Spencer says.
a few favorite finds that give the home that layered and storied look.
Antiques on a Budget
Spencer got this vintage scroll-top desk for $200.
Modern Touch
Extending the backsplash to the ceiling gave this space a fresh look.
Mix Master
A thumbtacked sketch and framed art give the display a collected feel.
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Elly Poston Cooper
