Though it has bold aesthetic elements throughout, designer Trish Lynn says this Darien, CT, new construction home was meant to feel calm and collected. “The homeowners are both busy doctors who commute into and work in NYC,” she shares. “They wanted to create a peaceful sanctuary to retreat to when they were home in the evening and on weekends.”

The charm of the community and proximity to the ocean is what initially drew the family to Darien, and they found this property within walking distance to the beach. “Our client had a clear vision from day one of what they were drawn to, but needed the support to see it through,” Trish explains. “It was a pivot from conventional Connecticut design, and my client wanted to break the boundaries of the status quo together.”

Trish’s firm, Colette Interiors, virtually designed much of the house with only two site visits during the entire one-year build. “The builder [VAS Construction] was a dream collaboration, who said yes to all of our asks, and truly helped bring our vision to life,” she says. “The result was a calming and intimate oasis that feels welcoming and approachable to everyone who enters the home.”

They hand-selected marble to further the design of many spaces in the home—from statement Viola Calacatta used in the powder and primary bathrooms to the Arabescato Orobico seen in the scullery. “The stone helped to influence and further the palette we had conceptualized for these spaces,” Trish explains. She called on natural woods in other areas, like the family room, which is centered around the details of the oak fireplace surround. “With a stunning view of the backyard, we focused on bringing the exteriors in through natural textures and color palette.” 

One of the most personal details in the home is the artwork, which was painted by the homeowner’s mother, Marilyn Vendemia. Trish also brought in pottery from local artisans and added a layer of vintage accessories so the new build wouldn’t feel too, well, new. 

The end result is one part showstopper, one part approachable abode, and now serves as the ultimate respite from the city. Take a tour in the slideshow.