Ellicott City Color Pop

When our clients moved from their cozy townhome into what the builder boldly called a “villa” (read: another townhome, but this one had an elevator and slightly fancier bones), they had one request: make it funky.

Challenge accepted.

The first thing to go? The baby blue walls. Sweet in theory—less sweet when they swallow up natural light and make your new space feel like a forgotten nursery. We painted, brightened, and banished every trace of pastel remorse. And while I swore I would not use blue, I stumbled upon the perfect cerulean credenza—and just like that, I betrayed my own rule faster than you can say “pop of color.”

The dining room? That ceiling went moody and bold in a rich navy, because if you can’t have a dramatic dining moment in your elevator villa, when can you? Add in the galaxy-chic chandelier and crisp striped drapes, and suddenly you’re sipping rosé under the stars… without leaving your house.

The living room got its own glow-up: layered textures, high-performance upholstery, and a coffee table that can actually handle real life (and a rogue juice box or three). The wallpaper/tile behind & around the fireplace brought the drama—although convincing the husband to ditch the old mantel for a sleeker look took some light coercion and one very persuasive mood board. Spoiler: he loves it now.

We also discreetly boxed in a rogue Roman column situation that was giving “Julius Caesar’s Airbnb” instead of “modern chill.” You’re welcome.

Oh, and the fan. We wanted a fandelier. We pitched a fandelier. But compromise is part of the job. At least the one we landed on doesn’t look like it came from a medieval tavern. Progress, and secretly we love it!

Bottom line: This project was funky, fun, and one of our faves. Because when your clients are down for a little risk and a lot of style—you get magic.