A remarkable transformation has taken place in a large Texas home, blending the charm of the English countryside with the spaciousness of a Texas residence. Designer Meg Lonergan worked closely with her client, Brook Novelli, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects both English elegance and Texan hospitality.
Located near Houston, the home spans 8,000 square feet and underwent a significant redesign to accommodate the evolving needs of Novelli’s family. After raising three daughters, Brook and her husband, Mike, sought to reimagine their space as a retreat for their now-adult children and their growing families. Instead of downsizing, the couple focused on enhancing their existing home to create a more intimate and family-friendly environment.
Brook Novelli brought a wealth of experience to the project, having been raised in a home filled with antiques and textiles. Her mother was an interior designer, which set high expectations for the redesign. Meg Lonergan notes, “Our client’s mother had been an interior designer herself; she was raised around antiques and pattern, and exposed to beautiful textiles and art, so we had plenty to live up to with this project.”
Creating a Family-Centric Design
The project kicked off with the creation of a bunk room for Brook’s grandsons, which was carved out of the attic space. Lonergan emphasized the importance of family in the redesign, stating, “Brook’s brief was for us to adapt the house to fit her needs, and Mike’s, as grandparents.”
Originally built in 2000, the home featured an open-plan layout that did not suit the new vision. Architect Matthew Mitchell was brought in to provide his expertise, helping to define spaces through architectural details such as columns. Additionally, the kitchen was reconfigured to foster a more convivial environment, allowing for larger gatherings.
The kitchen now boasts a long central island, complete with high stools for casual dining. “Wood stain rather than paint has been used for the cabinetry, to create contrast and balance,” Meg explains. The redesign transformed the kitchen into a central hub for family interactions.
Blending English Style with Texan Aesthetics
As the project progressed, the scope expanded significantly. Brook’s initial reluctance to tackle certain areas, such as the library and the main bathroom, was met with Meg’s persuasive design vision. “I phoned Brook and explained that it was my professional duty to advise her to redo that bathroom. Although serviceable, it was old-fashioned and would have felt stuck in a 2000s time capsule if she didn’t,” Lonergan remarked.
Inspired by the home’s woodland surroundings, the color palette reflects earthy greens and browns, complemented by bright accents. Meg’s design philosophy marries English interior style with the Texan/Southern aesthetic, where traditional elements harmonize with modern patterns. In the dining room, hand-printed wallpaper from de Gournay envelops the walls, while existing American-made furniture pieces blend seamlessly with new, locally sourced dining chairs.
Sustainability was also a consideration, as Meg utilized many of Brook’s existing furnishings. “We re-covered at least 20 pieces of Brook’s furniture with skirts and different upholstery techniques to give them an intriguing refresh,” she emphasized, highlighting the project’s commitment to both creativity and environmental consciousness.
The final result is a home that feels at ease in the Lone Star State while inviting guests to enjoy an English afternoon tea. The collaboration between Meg Lonergan and Brook Novelli has successfully created a family sanctuary that honors both their roots and aspirations for the future.
