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11 THIS PAGE & FACING PAGE: Located just off the entry, this intimate dining room was designed as a formal destination within the home's otherwise open floor plan. While respecting the traditional architecture, we introduced moments of subtle tension and sophistication to reinforce the overall European-Texas aesthetic. A previous renovation had altered the back wall by centering a niche in pursuit of symmetry. We chose instead to restore its original off-center placement, embracing intentional asymmetry to create greater character and visual interest. Wrapped in textured grasscloth, it becomes a focal point. The homeowners wanted to keep their existing dining table, so rather than competing with it, we embraced it as the room's anchor. Skirted dining chairs introduce softness while minimizing additional wood finishes, creating a more layered, collected feel. Within the niche, a custom two-tone chest bridges the table's darker wood tones with the lighter finishes. Custom millwork lines the perimeter, anchored by a distinctive ribbed chair rail detail that extends into the ceiling treatment and establishes a repeated motif. The cascading crystal chandelier evokes suspended petals, bringing movement and an organic, contemporary quality that contrasts beautifully with the more tailored elements. The palette takes its cues from the floral drapery fabric, introducing soft greens, warm neutrals, and botanical influences. By extending the draperies beyond the window frame, we visually expanded the opening and strengthened the room's connection to the landscape beyond. Photography by Ellen Renee Photography Designed by Sherry Millien, The Woodlands, TX "We honored the home's traditional architecture while introducing moments of unexpected tension and sophistication to align with a European Texas aesthetic." —Sherry Milien Designer's Designer's Comments Comments Transitional Transitional

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