How to have a beautiful home (even with two young kids!)

When homeowners Tanya and Richard first sat down with designer Samantha Sacks, they were sure that their two young children meant a life of pleather, vinyl and industrial-strength finishes. They only hoped that with a designer’s help it might not look so bad. Samantha, a mother of three, set about creating a high-end yet kid-friendly look for the couple. Working slowly to build their trust, she convinced them to take some design risks, including a marble-topped table and woven wishbone chairs in the kitchen nook. Next came a custom cabinet in white lacquer and book-matched walnut, new hardwood floors and patterned rugs. Once Tanya and Richard were on board with those items, Samantha pushed the envelope further. She proposed an oversized rattan-brush light fixture for the living room that could be ordered only online. It wasn’t returnable but would make the space. They took the plunge and said go for it. Then came Samantha’s biggest challenge: to get the couple to agree to white living room chairs. She pulled out the fabric swatch and smeared ketchup all over it. When it came out of the washer spotless a few days later, the couple were amazed, and it was full steam ahead with the rest of the design plan, including filling the home with South African art and artifacts that reflected their roots (they emigrated from the country in 2005). In the end, Samantha’s fearless decorating style combined with Tanya and Richard’s willingness to take risks paid off. They now have a bright, vibrant home that the whole family can enjoy. 

Coffee table, pillows, Crate and Barrel. Side table, Snob Stuff. Rug, Elte. Sofa, curtains, Restoration Hardware. Chandelier, Clayton Gray Home. Floor lamps, West Elm. Chair slipcover fabric, Kravet Canada. Floors, Coswick.