Description
Every now and then, we get to work on a project that is truly special. A few months ago, we had the absolute pleasure of meeting J.R. Martinez (Iraq war veteran and champion of “Dancing with the Stars”) and Diana Gonzalez-Jones, then pregnant with their first child, Lauryn Anabelle, nicknamed Belle. Instantly, we knew they would be amazing clients. Their story is one of inspiration, courage and hope, and it was our job to translate these sentiments into the nursery.
Design Inspiration
The centerpiece of the design for the room is the wall mural adorning the wall over the crib. Hand painted by Southern California artist Chelsea McGraw, the mural depicts angelic images of J.R.’s sister and Diana’s sister—both of whom were taken from this world far too soon—sweetly cradling the name Belle. The spectacular hand painting integrates with the laser-cut wood wall name that was created by Little Crown Interiors in a heavenly shade of metallic gold.
Project Details
We started with the “bones” of the space. J.R. and Diana wanted something subtle and breezy, so we chose to paint the walls a soft ivory and install gorgeous white-washed Cape Ann Hardwood in Rockport flooring by Shaw. Then, to add a touch of elegance, we opted for the amazing “Edie” Wallpaper by Tempaper in a luminous champagne and the ultra cozy Posh Area Rug in pearl by Shaw.
The lovely couple wanted their nursery furniture to be in rich tones with a modern edge, so naturally we selected the “Kudos” Crib and “Mix” Single Dresser & Changing Station from Young America by Stanley Furniture Company, in a two-tone wood finish. To offset the clean lines of the furniture, we custom upholstered an Oilo Studio Cohen Glider and Pouf in a deep burgundy hue.
J.R. and Diana also requested a home for Belle’s very special book collection: guests to the couple’s baby showers were invited to bring books for the baby. We wanted to keep the storage modern and versatile, so we chose great Storage Blocks from PoshTots that can be moved around and rearranged as needed. Also from PoshTots, we chose the stunning Harlow Side Table in taupe.
We wanted to keep the crib bedding subtle and feminine, so we chose the Freesia Crib Set and Changing Pad Cover by Oilo Studio. Underneath is a fabulous organic Crib Mattress and Mattress Pad by Naturalmat.
In keeping with the bright and breezy tone of the space, we knew we needed spectacular lighting. We decided on gold accents and went with the Geranium Globe Pendant from PoshTots and the fabulous Fuego Leafed Lamp by PoshLiving.
The baby’s initials “L.A.M.” were the basis of the request to incorporate lambs into the room. Always on the lookout for a custom-made and specialized solution to client requests, we sourced the adorable, limited edition Lamb Prints from renowned, Los Angeles-based photographer Sharon Montrose of The Animal Print Shop.
We were thrilled to find the beautiful and functional Ubbi Diaper Pail, which comes in an array of colors, from which we chose the color sand. We wanted to cover all the bases for this truly deserving couple!
Favorite Items
We love the sweet and sentimental mural above the crib.
Shai Virtuso
Thursday 2nd of August 2012
Yes, J.R. Martinez is one very inspiring individual. The room you designed for his darling daughter is just so beautiful. I like the soft and warm colors, too.