RIVERTON HOME

penfield, ny

Natural textures, softened light, and thoughtful details define the Riverton Home — a serene yet hardworking space designed for a young family with an active lifestyle. Grounded in a palette of warm neutrals and layered textures, this renovation embraces elements like raw oak, hand-troweled roman clay, and artisanal Zellige tile to create a calming backdrop that feels both elevated and livable.With abundant natural light and an open layout, one of our first goals was to bring in privacy without compromising the brightness of the home. This led to a dramatic transformation of the kitchen’s main wall, once dominated by an oversized window, into a refined focal point featuring two scaled-down, design-forward windows. These flank a striking artisan tile backsplash, which became the heart of the project. The backsplash not only showcases the intricate beauty of centuries-old Zellige tile but also features a carefully mitered edge with a 45º degree return — a timeless technique dating back more that 1000-years that subtly elevates the entire space. Durability was essential for this young family — especially with two kids and all their hockey gear — which is why materials like white oak and easy-to-maintain finishes were chosen for high-touch areas. Cabinetry was kept minimal and grounded, with only the uppers in white to keep the kitchen light while remaining practical. In the front room, we struck a balance between playful and polished. The space flexes easily between an area for the kids and a more grown-up retreat, with delicate patterns and whimsical touches that signal “kids live here,” without ever feeling juvenile or overtly serious. Every decision — from millwork to mitered tile edges — was guided by a desire to craft a space that feels relaxed, refined, and ready for real life.