Date:  November 1, 2022  |   Story: Tiffany Adams  |   Photography: Rett Peek  |   Styling: Stephanie Maxwell Newton  |  

Debi Davis updates a west Little Rock residence with a chic, livable aesthetic

A dark palette, ornate details, and stained wood were hallmarks of this Chenal home when the now-owners purchased the property. “This house was one of the original ones in the neighborhood and had not been updated,” says designer Debi Davis, who helped the couple tackle a renovation of the home. Eager to refresh in a way that reflected their clean yet approachable style, the owners called on Debi to breathe new life into the rooms. “They wanted to give it an airy feel and a look that was not cluttered,” she says of the couple’s goals for the project. “Most of the time our clients have a look that leans more transitional than traditional, and we help them bring that to life.”

To accomplish this, stained-wood molding and taupe walls were updated with a unifying coat of white paint. Not only did this create a seamless transition from room to room, it also highlighted a view of the backyard and the golf course beyond. “We kept the windows free of draperies so they could fully appreciate how scenic this is and also allow more light into the space,” Debi says. Rather than contrasting pieces, the designer opted for
light neutral furnishings, glass side tables, and gold accents to keep with the calm aesthetic.

Aside from a lighter palette and more contemporary style, comfort was a key factor for the couple and their teenage children. For example, the living spaces feature custom swivel chairs in plush fabrics that invite one to be a part of the conversation—even when you aren’t in the same room. “We are all about custom pieces. I want there to be a flow from room to room,” Debi says of these detailed features that unify the home.

A Comfortable Blend
In the dining room, the husband was drawn to a casual iron-and-wood dining table from RH. The industrial tone of this piece is juxtaposed with soft, upholstered chairs. In keeping with the home’s refined feel, Debi created a grid of intaglios on the wall opposite the room’s entrance. Their gold frames pair with the chandelier for a classic appeal.

Open & Orderly
“She is a big cook and very organized,” Debi says of the homeowner. In keeping with her sense of order, the same neutral paint carries over from the living spaces while quartzite countertops continue up the backsplash to create an unfussy, utilitarian look. Dual islands mean there’s enough room to chop vegetables or start a baking project in one area while the couple’s children do homework at the other.

In Good Company
The keeping room adjoining the kitchen is a favorite hangout for the family, allowing them to take in the view outdoors, carry on a conversation with those in the kitchen, and simply relax. Here, a dark wood fireplace surround was traded for cast stone that blends with the wall color and doesn’t draw the eye too heavily. Custom mirrors from Debi’s Reborn Relics line hang above the coordinating chests seen on either side, while a framed art-style television is seen over the mantel. The patterned fabric on the swivel chairs continues the hint of blue seen throughout the home.

“Most of the time our clients have a look that leans more transitional than traditional, and we help them bring that to life.”
—Debi Davis, designer

Upstairs, the couple’s teenage children can lounge with friends in a game room designed specifically with them in mind. A pool table and television provide entertainment while the raised bar area is stocked with drinks and snacks. 

A Refined Retreat
The spacious primary bath features his-and-her vanities and a double slipper tub. A commissioned work by local artist Gabriel Solis creates a focal point on a wall that conceals the walk-through shower. A custom ottoman covered in a dusty blue cut-velvet fabric brings color and texture, while a chair upholstered in a soft blue fabric with a dogwood motif at the dressing table adds to the space’s genteel feel. 

“Antiques catch the eye and bring interest to the design.”
—Debi Davis, designer

Design Resources
Interior design Debi Davis, Debi Davis Interior Design Accessories, art, lighting, mirrors, and window coverings Debi Davis Interior Design Appliances Metro Appliances and More Cabinetry Duke Custom Cabinets Countertops Triton Stone Group Countertops (Installation) All Natural Stone Fixtures Plumbing Warehouse