2007 ASID Showcase Home ~ Over the River

To restore this outdated - unusable porch for the 2007 ASID Showcase House Tour. Travel was important to the Victorians who loved to bring back accessories to furnish their homes. Our room reflects this excitement of the river and travel, while taking advantage of the wonderful river valley view and creating a place that you just don’t want to leave!

The porch is oddly shaped with a doorway right in the center, splitting into two parts. The flooring was in horrible shape, along with the aluminum clad windows from the 70’s. There was no deck or any way to go outside and take in the splendid view of the Mississippi River Valley. There was no lighting except the original fixture from Morocco or electrical outlets.

Starting from the ground up the old floor was removed and replaced by new Fir Flooring (which was architecturally correct to the home). A compass inlay that featured a wave pattern around the circumference was centered off the new glass doors that lead out to the new riverside deck. The inlay is a combination of American cherry, Brazilian Cherry, Maple and Walnut. The wave pattern was an important design feature, it is found carved in the woodwork throughout the home. New windows were installed on the outside walls. The original light fixture was cleaned and relocated above the inlay. New ceiling fans made of natural palm leaves were installed giving the room a subtle exotic feeling!

Taking advantage of the floor plan – 2 distinctly different seating areas were created. The main seating area is perfect for enjoying an evening cocktail while watching the sun set. All the furniture features louvered backs and is made of teak with natural linen look cushions. The area is anchored by a natural wool rug from Morocco. On the other side of the porch you will find a quiet relaxation area with a teak lounger in the same fabric and two ottomans covered in soft faux leather fabric. A wonderful leopard rug and telescope continues the theme of travel.

Accessory pieces from around the world blend seamlessly with antiques and items relating to the river. Thai carvings and a beaded hat from Burma, a hand carved chair from Tanzania and pair of 19th Century bronze leopards from the Benin Kingdom are just a sampling of these wonderful pieces. As a finishing touch the addition of several plants bring the outside in. Once an open porch, this space evolved into a livable entertaining space – a “Midnight at the Oasis!”