Transforming Spaces: Kelsey Haywood's Vision at Park Place House

photos by Margaret Rajic Photography

Kelsey Haywood, the creative mind behind Haywoodmade, has been making waves in the design world from her Chicago base, working with clients across the country to breathe new life into their spaces. One of her recent standout projects, the Park Place House, showcases her exceptional talent and unique vision for creating beautiful interiors. In this blog post, we’ll delve into Kelsey’s inspiration for the project, her favorite design elements, and the innovative use of performance fabrics.

A Love for Color and Pattern

At the heart of the Park Place House is a family that embraces bold colors and patterns. Kelsey shares, “Our clients are big lovers of color and pattern. They wanted the color story to be consistent with their aesthetic while also highlighting this historical Evanston home.” From the moment Kelsey walked through the house, she recognized the potential for transformation, particularly in the sunroom, which became the focal point of the redesign.

One of the most striking features of the sitting room is the custom sofa upholstered in our stunning Peacock Gold performance fabric. Kelsey explains her decision, saying, “We knew we wanted a neutral and had two other options when we presented to the client. That was before I saw you and got a sample of Peacock Gold! I immediately texted the client to say we wanted to pivot and go with this for the sofa instead. It was perfect.”

Peacock Gold’s rich hues harmonize beautifully with the luscious green walls, painted in Farrow & Ball’s Suffield Green. The combination creates a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere that is sure to impress.

What sets Kelsey’s design apart is her exceptional ability to layer textiles and patterns seamlessly. “I love the vintage rug and the way that plays with the rest of the textiles. Pattern mixing is one of our favorite things to do, and in here we went with subtle yet interesting,” she remarks. This careful layering elevates the space, creating visual intrigue without overwhelming the senses.

Performance Meets Style

In a home filled with activity, durability is key. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of using performance fabrics, especially for clients with children and pets. “We use the Alta treatment for all fabrics coming into our clients’ homes. It’s that additional layer of protection that helps clients feel like they can truly live on a piece of furniture and not baby it.” She also offers a valuable tip: “Even if it’s labeled as a performance fabric, it’s essential to pay attention to the contents rather than the label!” Kelsey used the Alta treatment, which can be done by places like Applied Textiles and Master Fabrics.

When designing the custom sofa for the Park Place House, comfort was paramount. Kelsey notes, “When designing the custom sofa for Park Place, comfort was paramount.” She chose our performance poly linen fabric because it has a soft and luxurious feel. Also important for the homeowner was that the sofa “was petite enough to fit in the space. It’s tricky to find something with the right depth and sit that makes you want to curl up.” With the perfect piece selected, the sitting room became a cozy retreat ideal for relaxation.

Kelsey’s design philosophy extends to wallpaper, which she often incorporates into her projects. “I can’t remember a project where we HAVEN’T used wallpaper! It’s a key element we use in small and medium-sized spaces and a statement when we use it in larger spaces. It creates the feeling of an escape and we are all about it."

It creates the feeling of an escape and doesn’t overwhelm the client.” She advises against common mistakes, stressing the importance of hiring a professional installer to ensure a flawless finish.

As for future projects, Kelsey is excited about exploring bespoke lighting and cabinetry. “We have more renovations, specifically bathrooms, than we’ve ever had at once, and it’s been so fun to play with tile layout and bringing in interesting custom touches to vanities.”

Kelsey Haywood’s work at Park Place House is a testament to her ability to blend functionality and aesthetic appeal. By embracing bold colors, patterns, and performance fabrics, she has transformed this historical home into a vibrant and inviting space. With her eye for detail and commitment to her clients’ visions, Kelsey continues to inspire and elevate the world of interior design. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on your space, Haywood Interiors may just be the perfect partner for your next project!

Kelsey can be reached at: 

Website: www.haywoodmade.com