Amy Jameson, founder of Jameson Interiors, shares how she and her team designed a multifunctioning room without sacrificing style.
By Lauren Jones, interior photos by Andrea Calo and headshot courtesy of Sarah Bork Photography
Austin-based designer Amy Jameson is well-known for her ability to create spaces that are both beautiful and practical. In one of her latest projects, Jameson and her team headed to Austin’s growing Mueller neighborhood to convert an office into a fully functioning room for a busy family of six.
For this project, the challenge was to modify a neglected and underutilized office into a family-friendly command center with computer stations at one end and a kid zone and storage at the other. Here, Jameson shares the inspiration behind the design.
Get the Look
Deconstruct before you reconstruct.
“Consider the space in its original form. Understanding your clients’ needs and how a space can accomplish the intended goal will give you the ability to reinvent any room. We removed the original closet, allowing us to accomplish the client’s specific storage requirements and optimize the number of usable workstations.”
Make an entrance.
“To capture the natural light, the original 9-foot solid-paneled French doors were replaced with 8-foot divided-light doors and a transom. Now, with a view from the entrance hall, this office is inviting for family members to work and study in private and yet still feel connected to the rest of the house.”
Proportion color and pattern.
“The chandelier is a statement piece which contrasts nicely with the linear lines of the workstations. The saturated wall color and wallpaper help connect both ends of the room, making the space feel more inviting.”
Consider location, location, location.
“Placement is everything. When incorporating a fabulously printed wallpaper or a bold pop of color, a little can go a long way. In this space, the wallpaper draws you in and the details make you want to stay.”
There’s magic behind closed doors.
“The success of this room is how deceptively simple it looks. You wouldn’t know all the storage tricks we employed until you opened each door and drawer. Examples include a fold-out ironing table; custom lazy Susan printer shelf; expandable, pull out worktop; hidden trash and recycling bins; custom drawer inserts; filing components and a concealed computer server and shelf for cords. Some use the space for tutoring and others for art projects, but when it’s all said and done, Mom and Dad have an inviting space where they can relax with a glass of wine while they work, study, pay some bills or plan their next vacation.”
In This Room
- Serena & Lily Palmetto wallpaper in Inkwell Blue and Khaki
- Benjamin Moore Stunning 826 on the walls
- Benjamin Moore Super White on the cabinets, doors and trim
- Eames Aluminum Group Management Chair
- camel-leather chair purchased at Design Within Reach
- Arabelle hanging-shade chandelier in Gild by Aerin
- custom cabinetry and walnut desk designed by Jameson Interiors and built by A.R. Lucas Construction Company
- Rev-a-Shelf foldout ironing board and dual trash bin
- Hafele pullout table system
- file frame hanging inserts
- hyacinth baskets
- general construction by A.R. Lucas Construction Company
- Benjamin Moore Super White and Stunning 826