Designer Spotlight: Kelley Vitorino of Arthur Rutenberg Homes
After spending a whole day marveling at a luxurious model home in the Acadia community during our Moments Campaign photoshoot, we knew we wanted to know more about the inspiration behind the home. So, we connected with Kelley Vitorino, interior designer for Arthur Rutenberg Homes and the mind behind the model home’s design. We’re so thrilled to share more of this stunning home with you, along with a Q&A with Kelley!
The impressive exterior of a luxurious model home in the Acadia community in South Carolina.
What are your main areas of focus when designing a model home?
When designing a model home, you are creating spaces that must entice the potential homebuyer. It is essential that every room is equally important with an identity and a purpose that is clearly defined. Room count, flow, and square footage are all important details, but the sense of humanity a model home portrays is what makes it memorable. The sensation of aspirational living should exist from the first moment to the last.
View of the great room and kitchen, with Glass pendants over the bar.
Are there some rooms that are more of a focus than others?
The design concept is first experienced in the main living areas, therefore requiring the most focus and attention to detail. Special consideration must be given to the targeted market. For instance, a casual environment would appeal to a family with young children looking for comfort and durability – in contrast to a more formal living space, that may attract empty nesters. While every room is important, the living room, dining room and kitchen must instantly convey the wants and needs of the potential buyer.
The Cantata chandelier serves as a dazzling focal point for the dining room.
Can you describe the style/lifestyle this home presents?
The Asheville model in Acadia unifies functional family living with personality, style, and longevity.
A wet bar brings personality to the Acadia model home, featuring three Glass pendants.
What were some of the key elements/ways you were able to achieve your intended design?
My intent was to create a cozy and comfortable environment with a playful yet subtle sophistication. Natural textures like jute, cork, and reclaimed wood share spaces with strong pops of color and contemporary art creating a warm atmosphere with personality and drama. Neutral wall colors and pure white trim provide a clean backdrop for distinctive furniture pieces and bold accessories to add style and character. Current yet classic material and finish selections have a broad appeal and withstand various design trends.
The club room boasts beautiful wooden beams and a view of the back yard.
What role did the selection of lights play when designing each room? Can you walk us through some of your favorite rooms and address how lighting enhances the design?
Lighting is the jewelry of the house. Just as the perfect pair of earrings can finish an outfit, the right light fixture can make a statement and set a tone. The foyer pendant in this home is a great example. It delivers a wow-factor when first entering the home and edges up the otherwise more traditional staircase. The kitchen pendant selection was based on function as well as the aesthetic. These provide additional down lighting on the island and add a playful utilitarian charm to the kitchen. In the master bath, the cabinets are in a rich dark espresso finish. The sconces selected have a delicate, more feminine feel that offset the visual strength of the cabinetry.
The Cantata chandelier over the dining room table showcases lighting as “the jewelry of the home.”
Why does this style of design resonate with homeowners/prospective buyers?
Clean lines blended with natural elements create a stylish and comfortable design. A contemporary atmosphere can be obtained yet softened by incorporating organic textures. Adding furniture with a “collected” feel provides a sense of familiarity, since most homeowners hold onto those special pieces. Also, color used with restraint enhances the design without overpowering the space. By introducing various design elements, the desirability increases for the potential buyer.
An AirPro ceiling fan and neutral color palette keeps this master bedroom cool and relaxed for its homeowners.
What is the most common mistake homeowners make in trying to achieve this style of design?
The common mistake homeowners make in trying to achieve this style of design is being afraid to think outside of the box. Not everything needs to match, but it does need to feel intentional. Remember to incorporate those beloved furniture pieces with contemporary artwork and light fixtures. Also, finding balance is important. If too many pieces are distressed, the design will feel old. Try placing a metallic accessory on a reclaimed wood table. By blending the old and the new, the homeowner can create an updated look that is more interesting but still reflects their personality.
Cantata bath & vanity fixtures softly illuminate this master bathroom retreat.
Anything else to add?
Model home design requires an incredible amount of creativity and imagination. The designer must be forward thinking enough to show the potential homebuyer what they want while honoring what they need. Furnishings, finishes, artwork, and lighting create the ambience that influences the perception of the space. When a prospective buyer walks into a model and sits down on the sofa, a connection has been made and hopefully the relationship will continue from there.
The back of the home holds an outdoor fire pit and spacious porch area, perfect for spending time with guests and visitors.
Thanks for the tour, Kelley! We can’t wait to see your next design. Follow Progress Lighting on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to see more!
Have you entered this month’s Moments Sweepstakes yet? Click here and enter for your chance to win a $1,500 lighting credit and make Progress Lighting the jewelry of your own home! Then, pin your favorite fixtures and rooms with us on Pinterest!