I am excited to share this One to Follow with you. Today, I highlight the work of North Shore Nest, an Illinois-based interior design firm. Suzanne Glavin and Melinda Cahill, principal designers at North Shore Nest, are committed to creating “warm, livable spaces that stand the test of time,” and they deliver on that goal. Their portfolio is full of timeless, casually-elegant designs that are inviting and perfect for families. Scroll down for some of my favorite spaces. Trust me when I say I’m not even scratching the surface here, so check out the rest of their portfolio and/or follow on Instagram.
When I look through the spaces, several elements stand out to me. One theme that runs throughout is the designers’ use of tailored pieces with an emphasis on the small details that make a design pop (like welts, tapes, and trims). The second thing I notice is their color choices. They are not afraid of bold colors, but when the setting calls for it, they pull back to neutrals (blue is a neutral, btw) and let the view shine. Lastly, pattern play! Geometrics, chinoiserie, stripes, oh my!
Go ahead, grab a coffee, I’ll wait. You’ll want to settle in to soak up the details in these timeless, youthful, and cheerful spaces.
*all photos below via North Shore Nest
Lake Geneva Dream house
Nautically-inspired, without being overdone or too thematic. In the rooms with stunning views, the muted and serene design complements, rather than competes with, the views.
northfield go bold or go home
This house really goes for it. The use of really strong color and pattern may not be for everyone, but if you look closely, you’ll notice that it would be easy to pull it back by swapping out a patterned element for a neutral one (think solid linen drapes in the living room, for example). But what fun would that be?
winnetka colonial
There are a fair number of patterns at play in this space, as well. However, the edited color palette results in a sophisticated and calm vibe. I’m praying that there’s a fireplace in that living room/library/lounge because enjoying a maple old fashioned there on a fall evening would be *chef’s kiss*.
lake geneva blue and white
As the name suggests, there is a lot of blue and white going on in this project. That alone is enough for me; however, let’s take a close look at the details. The curves of an armchair. Nailhead trim. Petite sconces that provide just the right amount of soft light. Decor that announces in a whisper, rather than a shout, the lakeside setting.
Do you have favorite elements and details? Share them in the comments! Want more? You can find other One to Follow posts under the Inspiration tab (or just click here).