Spring 2022

French Country Feel

Warm, Old World vibes permeate this casually elegant Meadowbrook Park home.

Written by Lisa Waterman Gray | Photos by Nate Sheets

W

hen Pat Conner works with interior design clients, she makes every effort to accommodate their individual needs. “We meet every week and choose every stone or brick,” she says. “We plan down to the soap dish.” This has been her focus for four decades with local interior design firm Madden-McFarland.

At this home in Meadowbrook Park, designed by Elswood Smith Carlson Architects and built by Ambassador Homes, Pat tailored her interior design to the French country architectural vibe. An arched outer door leads to an expansive outdoor living space, full of 100-year-old paver bricks from Salina and beautiful stonework. A wood-burning fireplace warms a comfortable seating area.
 
Another wood-burning fireplace anchors the spacious living room, where long windows channel natural light and antique truss barn beams accentuate a vaulted ceiling. The open kitchen features a large island and double wall ovens amid French-country-inspired cabinet finishes. A tall wine refrigerator flanks the double-door pantry, and a gorgeous wood armoire conceals a lighted (and well-stocked) bar.
Conner helped the owners create a comfortable yet upscale home. “You can come into this house and put your feet up on the armoire,” she says. “It’s a relaxed home where you can sit with a dog while entertaining friends.”
 
In the office, wood paneling, shutters and walls of shelves create a space that is both warm and functional. Conner added coffered ceiling beams—reminiscent of the couple’s previous home—to the primary bedroom, which is bright, airy and calm. A chandelier that once hung in their dining room is now a bedroom statement piece.
 
After the homeowner requested a spa-like primary bathroom, Conner designed a space featuring pale finished cabinets and an enormous shower incorporating several tile styles. Crystal wall sconces and a pewter bathtub create the feel of a European manor.
When Conner suggested adding colorful artwork to the bathroom, the homeowner initially hesitated. But as the women perused the offerings at Prairiebrooke Arts in Overland Park, she found the perfect piece. Then they found the bright-hued flamingo painting that decorates the laundry room and her small office. More beautiful art accentuates the living room’s fireplace wall. 
 
In the spacious first floor powder room, bold floral wallpaper complements a large mirror and a massive wood vanity with mother-of-pearl handles. Upstairs, two serene guest rooms feature full baths. There’s also a built-in hallway coffee bar.
 
Conner appreciates the friendly, casual vibe throughout this custom community. “It’s likely the last house [these homeowners] will do. And they’re not trying to prove anything.”
 

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