Location: Denver
Size: 90 square feet (8.4 square meters); 7½ by 12 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners wanted their entry built-in to function seamlessly for everyday life while remaining visually cohesive with the kitchen just steps away,” says designer Nikki Romero-Holt. “Because the space is fully visible from the main living area, it needed to feel intentional and refined, not purely utilitarian. They were struggling with how to balance accessibility and aesthetics. Shoes, jackets and daily essentials required open grab-and-go storage, but clutter was not an option in such a prominent location.”
Storage features. “The built-in was designed around three primary storage components: open cubbies below the bench for everyday shoe storage, recessed alcoves with hooks for frequently used jackets and an adjacent closed closet for overflow storage and seasonal items,” Romero-Holt says. “This layered approach allows the homeowners to keep daily essentials accessible while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
“To ensure continuity with the home’s contemporary, high-contrast aesthetic, we carried the walnut wood seen throughout the house into this space. A two-tone cushion combination, including a green vinyl channel-tufted back and a green-blue patterned seat cushion adds warmth and dimension while complementing the surrounding artwork. The result feels like a distinct moment within the home yet completely aligned with the overall design language.”
Designer tip. “When designing open storage built-ins, take cues from hospitality spaces,” Romero-Holt says. “Many boutique hotels utilize open storage solutions that are both functional and visually appealing. By treating the storage wall as a fully integrated architectural feature rather than a purely practical insert, you can create something that feels custom and intentional.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “One challenge arose when we installed the first iteration of the full-height channel-tufted back panel,” Romero-Holt says. “The channels initially terminated directly into the window jamb, leaving exposed edges that felt abrupt and unfinished. To resolve this we introduced an extended walnut window jamb, creating a clean and intentional stopping point for the upholstery. That subtle architectural adjustment elevated the overall execution and delivered the tailored finish we had envisioned from the start.”
Channel-tufted vinyl fabric: Drifter in Pine, Arc|Com; cushion fabric: Che Fico in Fabiana Notte, Architex
This article was originally published by a www.houzz.com . Read the Original article here. .
