KPS Bay PRS

Midwest Values Come to Dallas: A Custom Office for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House

The fifth annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House is back, featuring 22 exceptional interior designers. MHM LIVING is proud to partner with Victoria Sass of Prospect Refuge Studio to create a custom-designed office space that harmoniously modernizes Midwestern charm. This innovative design will infuse every detail with Prospect Refuge Studio’s unique style, transforming how this space will be utilized.
KPS Bay PRSOur goal at MHM LIVING is to construct a functional atmosphere that executes Sass’s vision of productivity. To achieve this, we’re implementing significant changes to the fundamentals of the space. Recently, our crews completed the drywall installation along the ceiling and removed a wall, setting the stage for an elevated design that enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of the existing space.

The removal of the existing floor and baseboards was also a quick success, paving the way for one of the standout features of this project: floor-to-wall carpet with built-in cabinetry. These custom-built cabinets are designed specifically to incorporate the carpet and maximize storage, while maintaining a symmetric and organized look.

Follow our progress as we continue to transform this office space. Each week, we’ll share updates and insights into the design choices and craftsmanship that will define this extraordinary room. We look forward to sharing this journey with you!

1. Painting of the Office 

Crews are making remarkable strides on the custom space in the Turtle Creek Mansion. Each week brings new developments, and the intricate details are coming together beautifully. The custom-built cabinets have been expertly crafted and installed, and the first layer of paint has transformed the shelves, setting the stage for the room’s distinctive character.

Under the expert guidance of Prospect Refuge Studio, the design thoughtfully leverages the distance between the ceiling mold and the floor, creating an illusion that enhances the room’s depth. Our dedicated crews are currently finalizing the painting of the ceiling trims, which adds an element of sophistication and pays homage to the rich traditions and values of the Midwest, inspired by Victoria Sass’s childhood home.

In addition to the exquisite builtin bar and paintwork, there are a few exciting surprises in store for the office! Crews have successfully laid the foundation for these unique features, and they’re now preparing the area for staining and wallpaper that will elevate the overall design.

Stay tuned as we continue to document our progress in transforming this extraordinary office space.We’ll share updates and insights into the design choices and craftsmanship that will define this unique room. We can’t wait to share this journey with you!

2. Wallpaper and Kitchen

Crews are making remarkable strides in reimagining this office space, with each week unveiling new developments that bring the intricate details together beautifully. The paint has dried, and the ceiling features have just been completed, setting the stage for a transformation that is both thoughtful and elegant.

The ceiling boasts flocked wallpaper by Harlequin, a subtle nod to the often-controversial popcorn ceilings found in older Midwestern homes. Rather than discarding this familiar element, Victoria Sass embraces it, using texture to breathe new life into a historically overlooked feature. This choice reflects a commitment to celebrating design elements that others may overlook, infusing the space with fresh character.

Among the highlights is the charming cabinet sink, a delightful surprise that invites warmth and nostalgia. The tile beautifully ties the room together, directing the eye with its subtle yet inviting hues. The golden oak surrounding the sink pays tribute to the Midwest, evoking a sense of familiarity and comfort that makes this space feel like home.

As the project progresses, our dedicated crews are tapping into their expertise while racing against a tight deadline. Adjustments to the lighting and ceiling have been made to ensure a seamless transition from a commercial building to a cozy residence, reflecting a thoughtful approach to design that marries functionality with aesthetic appeal.

We’ll continue to share updates and insights into the design choices and craftsmanship that will define this unique room. From the selection of lighting fixtures to the curation of furniture that enhances the overall vibe, we are excited to take you along on this journey of transformation. Stay tuned as we document our progress in creating this extraordinary office space!

3. Final Arrangement 

As construction winds down and the finishing touches are applied, the excitement in the air is unmistakable. Crews are diligently working to ensure everything is perfect before Prospect Refuge Studio steps in to tie the room together. The installation of the cabinet hardware is in full swing, with custom cast bronze hardware complementing natural wallcovering on oversized golden oak cabinet doors.

The choice of each of the unique features of the custom cast bronze hardware tells its own story, with shapes like trucks, wrenches, dinosaur heads, acorns, moons, golf balls and the like lending a modern twist that enhances the traditional oak cabinetry with a fresh and intriguing feel. This thoughtful selection reflects a commitment to marrying contemporary aesthetics with traditional elements, resulting in an office that feels both stylish and comfortable.

One of the standout features of the remodel is the iconic blue carpet, which has just been laid out across the office floor and up the wall. Its thoughtful hue beautifully compliments the oak cabinets, adding a subtle pop of color that is cohesive to the room. This intentional color palette not only tells Victoria Sass’ story, but also creates a harmonious balance between the various design elements.

MHM LIVING has collaborated closely with Prospect Refuge Studio to ensure that each element serves a purpose. The carefully considered dimensions of the cabinets and the interplay between the carpets and wallpaper work together to create the illusion of more space, making this office both functional and inviting. It’s a testament to MHM LIVING’s expertise in crafting environments that cater to the client’s needs while still adhering to stylish design principles.

The collaboration with Prospect Refuge Studio, led by the talented Victoria Sass, brings a distinctive Midwestern charm to the project. From the subtle blue carpet to the thoughtfully chosen wallpaper that wraps around the office, every detail has been selected to reflect a sense of Victoria’s childhood home with a modern twist. This attention to detail showcases not only design skill but also a deep understanding of the region’s style and character.

As we move closer to the completion of this transformative project, we look forward to sharing more insights. Soon, we’ll sit down with our President and Victoria Sass from Prospect Refuge Studio to delve into the overarching vision and design philosophy behind this remodel. Together, we will explore the creative process, the challenges overcome, and the ultimate goal of bringing the client’s dreams to life through a beautifully crafted office space.

Stay tuned for more updates as we wrap up this exciting project and reveal the final results!

KPS Bay

Cigar Lounge Construction Flourishes through Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas

Being a part of the Kips Bay Decorator Show House is a prestigious honor that celebrates design excellence while making a positive impact on our community. MHM LIVING is thrilled to be included in the fifth annual Dallas event. This renowned event provides a unique platform for elite interior designers to showcase their talents while raising vital funds for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. This year, the historic Turtle Creek Mansion will be transformed into a breathtaking showcase of creativity and innovation.

KPS BayMHM LIVING is proud to partner with Traci Connell Interiors to create a captivating cigar lounge that transports visitors back to the Golden Age, infused with a modern twist. As we embark on this creative journey, our craftsmanship and expertise will be put to the test against a tight deadline, bringing together a talented team of specialty partners to craft an exquisite space.

The expansive blank canvas of the cigar lounge offers our designers the freedom to unleash their creativity without constraints. Each week, MHM LIVING will highlight a key feature of the lounge that will contribute to the overall ambiance and experience. Recently, our dedicated crews have been hard at work laying the foundation for this inviting space, incorporating elegant cabinetry and a striking fireplace.

One standout element is the custom-built cabinets with gracefully curved edges. This design feature not only enhances the aesthetic but also creates a sense of movement throughout the room. The complementary curves of the fireplace further enhance the cozy atmosphere, guiding guests in how to enjoy the space.

As this project unfolds, we invite you to follow along and witness the transformation of the cigar lounge. Be sure to check in each week for updates on the defining characteristics that will shape this extraordinary room. Stay tuned for more updates as we bring this vision to life!

1. Installing the Marble

MHM LIVING is pleased to report that crews are making significant progress on the cigar lounge within the Turtle Creek Mansion. Each week brings new developments, and the intricate details are coming together seamlessly. 

Recently, our team has successfully installed all the cabinetry, a crucial element that sets the stage for the lounge’s inviting atmosphere. The installation of key features, designed to enhance the room’s ambiance, has also been completed. Thanks to the collaboration with Benjamin Moore & Co., our crews have expertly finished the intricate multilayered crown and darker elements of the space, which will serve as striking focal points upon entry.

The flow of the room is paramount in creating the ideal cigar lounge atmosphere. Thoughtful spacing between furniture and walls will facilitate movement, ensuring a comfortable and inviting experience for guests. 

Another standout feature is the Cipollino Ondulato marble slab backsplash detail by Artistic Tile, which introduces a touch of drama and depth to the room. The rich, dark tones of the marble beautifully complement the stained cabinetry, creating a harmonious balance that enhances the overall aesthetic. The design intricacies, including the elegantly curved edges of the stonework, mimic this movement, adding a sense of fluidity to the space.

As we continue to develop this unique lounge, we invite you to follow along on this exciting journey. We’ll highlight the design choices and craftsmanship that will make this cigar lounge an extraordinary destination for relaxation and enjoyment. We can’t wait to share the progress with you!

2. Lighting

As crews continue to work diligently on the cabinetry throughout the cigar lounge, the focus is on the intricate details of lighting each door and shelf. This careful attention to detail is essential, as the lighting plays a crucial role in establishing the lounge’s ambiance. Each shelf will feature thoughtfully placed lighting that not only illuminates the fine cigars on display but also creates an inviting atmosphere. The shadows cast by these lights will enhance the room’s flow and draw attention to key focal points, guiding guests through an immersive experience.

The design doesn’t stop at the shelves; the lighting will also beautifully reflect off the stunning stone surfaces we mentioned in our last update. This stone isn’t just a counter; it elegantly cascades across the room, serving as both a functional element and a visual guide. The seamless integration of this stone into the overall design reimagines its use, transforming it into a striking feature that enhances both the aesthetic and navigational aspects of the lounge. MHM LIVING has meticulously finished the final details of the stonework, ensuring that it harmonizes with the overall vision for the space.

Stay tuned as we unveil more about the innovative design elements, luxurious furnishings, and the thoughtful layout that will create a welcoming environment for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. We can’t wait to share the progress with you and to reveal the final transformation of this remarkable space!

3. Assembly

In the world of interior design, the details always matter; however, when it comes to the newly remodeled cigar lounge, lighting and ambiance take center stage. MHM LIVING has leveraged their expertise to ensure the project stays on schedule, allowing Traci Connell Interiors ample time to add those crucial finishing touches that will elevate the space even further.

Thanks to their collaboration, crews have efficiently wrapped up the assembly of all the hardware, making remarkable progress. The ten cabinets that encircle the lounge’s focal point boast intricate hardware that seamlessly ties the room’s design together. The use of gold accents throughout—mirroring the lighting fixtures—creates a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic that resonates with the luxurious feel of the lounge.

The finalization of the moldings is another critical element that enhances the overall design. These moldings, which contrast beautifully with the darker tones in the room, add a layer of depth and elegance, enriching the visual experience. The interplay between light and shadow, along with the thoughtful color palette, helps create an atmosphere that is both inviting and sophisticated, perfect for savoring a fine cigar.

As we continue to make strides in developing this unique lounge, we are excited to announce that soon, we’ll sit down with our President and Traci from Traci Connell Interiors. Together, we’ll delve into the overarching vision and design philosophy that guided this remodel. This conversation will provide insights into the creative processes, the challenges faced, and the ultimate goal of transforming the client’s vision into a beautifully crafted lounge.

fluted marble

Behind the Scenes of Technical Design

Designing and building elevated spaces requires a balance of artistic vision and technical expertise. From intricate marble installations to innovative architectural features, each element demands meticulous attention to detail and collaboration across various disciplines. This behind the scenes exploration summarizes the numerous technical design elements encountered throughout the construction of several extraordinary projects.

Read More

mhm living

Achieving Excellence Through Interdependence in Design and Construction

In the world of design and construction achieving success heavily relies on interdependence, just like nature and world economies rely on each other’s interconnectedness. Let’s explore a couple of key areas.
At MHM LIVING we believe the foundation of all successful projects is trust. While we depend on capturing the client’s vision from the outset, the client also depends on us to listen intently to their needs. This ensures we capture their true vision in the design and subsequent construction.

Read More