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Artful Evolution: A Two-Decade Return to a Curated Family Home

Kelly Murdock Solon and Shea Murdock of Murdock Solon Architects reunite with longtime clients for a gut renovation that gives their home a refined, distinctive identity
Lifestyle photo by David Mitchell. All other images courtesy of their respective companies.

Kelly Solon and Shea Murdock first collaborated with the homeowners in 1999 to update their kitchen; two decades later, the designers were invited back for a complete gut renovation of the entire home. The goal was to elevate the design to reflect the couple’s art collection and give the space a refined distinctive identity that mirrored the owners’ style. Throughout, custom design details incorporate materials and artworks carefully collected over years of travel.

THE RUSSELL SOFA BY MINOTTI

I selected this piece for its refined, 1950s-inspired silhouette and soft, enveloping curves that give it an inviting, sculptural presence. It’s upholstered in a custom fabric, which helps balance the richness of the wall tones.

minotti.com

 

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS PAINT IN DEEP SEA DIVE

This paint was selected for its rich, moody blue tone with subtle green undertones, creating a deep, ocean-inspired teal that anchors the palette while bringing depth, calmness, and a sophisticated atmospheric quality to the space.

sherwin-williams.com

 

KURUL ARMCHAIR BY HENNING KJAERNULF C. 1960

Crafted from solid oak with a natural patina, this striking piece features a sculptural X-frame inspired by ancient Roman curule chairs. Its carved detailing adds a rustic, almost brutalist character, making it both refined and boldly expressive. When we saw them against the wallpaper, they felt completely harmonious in the space.

BENJAMIN MOORE PAINT IN WHITE WISP

We achieved an enveloping, warm, and collected feel in the room, and I had to be careful to select the perfect white since ceiling color can really alter a space. Because every white brings out different undertones, we wanted to ensure our choice would harmonize with the room. We all agreed on White Wisp, a gently cool white that brings balance to the space.

benjaminmoore.com

Kelly Murdock Solon earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design and her Masters of Science from the London School of Economics. Prior to founding her practice, she worked with the United Nations in Phnom Penh and conducted housing research for the Government of London. As principal of MURDOCK SOLON ARCHITECTS, she brings a refined design sensibility, grounded in fine arts training, and a strong command of the technical dimensions of architecture.

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