A Home with Heart: Designing a Space That Honors What Matters Most
- Eden Hutchinson
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
By Home by Hattan
Some projects go far beyond color palettes and floor plans—and this one reminded us why we do what we do. Our client had waited a long time to renovate her home. Her heart was set on creating a space that didn’t just look beautiful, but felt deeply personal. As someone who values people over appearances, she wanted her home to reflect love, legacy, and the way she lives.
From the start, this project was about honoring her story. After losing both her mother and brother, our client brought intention and care to every decision. We upcycled her mother’s hutch and gave it a place of honor in the dining room.
We created a cozy spot for her treasured piano and incorporated heirlooms like an antique rocker and framed family photos.
One of our favorite moments? When she requested we paint her brick fireplace teal. We admit, we were hesitant—but that request became our creative launchpad. That vibrant teal tone went on to influence the palette of the entire home, including the kitchen cabinetry and subtle accents repeated across seven rooms. The result? A home that feels like her—authentic, welcoming, and filled with warmth.
What This Project Taught Us: Lessons in Listening, Leading & Letting Go
Every project teaches us something new. This one reminded us that truly custom design isn’t about trends—it’s about translation. It’s about turning your client’s life, values, and style into a cohesive space that reflects who they are.
Design is Personal
This renovation underscored how meaningful it is to blend function with sentiment. Custom design means honoring the things our clients care about most—even when those things are unexpected or unconventional.
Creativity Begins with Curiosity
When our client shared her vision for a teal fireplace, we leaned in instead of pushing back. What initially seemed like a bold ask became a standout feature and inspired a whole-home color story that felt fresh and personal.
The Role of Designer as Guide
Design isn’t just a visual job—it’s an emotional one. Renovations can be overwhelming, especially when there’s sentimental weight involved. We walk beside our clients through every stage, offering not just expertise, but empathy.
Client Tips: How to Make Your Home Feel Deeply Yours
Thinking about renovating your own space? Here are a few lessons from this project that may help guide your journey:
Let Your Story Lead
Share your life, your memories, your routines. The more your designer knows about you, the more intentional and personal your space will become.
Incorporate the Things You Love
Whether it’s a favorite color, your grandmother’s side table, or a photo that makes you smile—those pieces are what make a space feel like home.
Trust the Process (Even When It’s Messy)
Renovation isn’t always linear, but it is collaborative. Trust your team to guide you, push your vision when needed, and support you every step of the way. The result is worth it: a home that’s not just well-designed, but deeply lived-in and loved.
Bring Your Design Vision to Life with Home by Hattan
Feeling inspired to create a space that highlights both you and your spouses preferred styles? That’s what we do! Contact us today to learn how our services can help you design for how you want to live!
Trustworthy | Thoughtful | Tailored
Mark & Karen Hattan
Founders, Home by Hattan Design + Build
Intentionally combining luxury and livability,
we create homes that are as beautiful as they are functional—designed for effortless elegance and meaningful connection.
Because HOME is important, and so are the people who live there.
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