Elegant Scarsdale Home Gets a Warm, Family-Friendly Makeover

A home in Scarsdale, New York, exemplifies the adage ‘small changes make a big impact’, bringing new life to an already promising space

Renowned for its Tudor-style mansions, Colonial Revival houses and general prestige, the valley town Scarsdale, in New York, is one of the most desired areas for those seeking a beautifully suburban lifestyle not far from the hubbub of New York City. Homes are situated on large, beautifully landscaped properties — and this elegant 823m² home is no different.

Undergoing a transformation that proves big results can stem from subtle changes, Tami Wassong Interiors created a vibrant yet livable space for a young family with three sons. The home had a beautiful layout and scale — with tall windows, 10-foot [three metre] ceilings and herringbone parquet floors in the entry,’ recalls Tami Wassong.

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Dated floor tiles were removed in several locations and replaced with new white oak that was stained to match, Image: Gieves Anderson

The homeowners initially considered a full-scale home renovation, but Wassong’s expertise revealed that minor structural changes and thoughtful design choices could bring new life to the dated interiors. The updates included opening the kitchen and dining area into the living room, reconfiguring the main bathroom and walk-in cupboards, and incorporating custom millwork throughout.

The team at Tami Wassong Interiors decided to keep the original mouldings but replace all doors and hardware throughout, Image: Gieves Anderson

Central to the redesign was inspiration from a sample of wallpaper from Black Crow Studios that Tami discovered while in France. The design graces the guest bathroom and influences the home’s warm and moody colour palette. Rich tones of deep olive, paprika and gold contrast with calming neutrals to create a harmonious flow. Venetian plaster walls, wallpapers and bespoke furnishings elevate each space, while tactile materials such as white oak, walnut, velvet and brass add depth.

The homeowners love wallpaper, so Wassong decided to cover the dining room ceiling in a neutral, yet textural design from Holly Hunt wall coverings, Image: Gieves Anderson

This transformation is highlighted in the living room (dubbed the ‘music room’ by the family) — featuring olive hued walls, custom-designed rugs and paprika lounge chairs. The dining room boasts wallpapered ceilings and Venetian plaster walls, while the reimagined kitchen combines refinished cabinets with marble backsplashes and walnut accents.

This room is nicknamed the music room, with their collection of art/music books, collectible records and turntables, Image: Gieves Anderson

Each child’s room reflects their unique personality, tied together by cohesive wall-to-wall carpeting and accent walls.

Each child had a say in deciding their room colours and theme, with a wallpapered accent wall completing each space, Image: Gieves Anderson

The serene main bathroom juxtaposes natural oak cabinets with white dolomite marble, achieving a timeless elegance. ‘We designed spaces that feel layered and lived-in, yet allow room for the family to grow and add personal touches over time,’ says Tami. With an abundance of living space, the house balances lively family living with moments of retreat.