Design Hints
Relax and Recharge
To create a peaceful space in your country abode, let Jeff VanVoorhis and Susan Fox be your guides. The pair rank the living room as one of their favorite places to while away the hours. Here are a few of their ideas on putting together a primitive room that evokes a sense of calm:
3/9/2021
- GET PERSONAL Incorporate items or heirlooms that speak to your life and the lives of your ancestors. A 1958 horse-show advertisement, displayed in a vintage wormy-chestnut frame, came from Jeff's great-grandparents' farm and subsequently reflects Jeff’s cherished family history. "Jeff has horses in his blood," Susan says. "His father had horses, his grandfather had horses, and his great-grandfather was a well-known Standardbred racehorse trainer."
- PAY SPECIAL TRIBUTE Reserve an uncluttered wall or other space for a piece that has sentimental value. To the left of the fireplace hangs a charming painting of an old New England mill rendered by Jeff's mom years ago.
- JUST SAY YES Fill the room with furnishings that you positively love. When Susan spied the delightful Pennsylvania Dutch painted table at a local auction, she followed her heart. "She decided it was coming home with her— period!" says Jeff, who admits that he didn't like it at the time. Now, he "would not think of getting rid of it," Susan notes.
Written by Rebecca Razo
Photographed by Gridley + Graves
Photographed by Gridley + Graves
