Designer Transforms ‘Cold’ Foreclosure into Charming Family Home

When a home sells for teardown value at a foreclosure auction, it often signals significant challenges ahead. For designer Steph Schlegelmilch, founder and creative director of Studio Seva, this was merely the beginning of an inspiring journey. She recognized the potential in a neglected property in Westport, transforming what she described as a bland “builder special” into a family home brimming with character and charm.

During her first visit, Schlegelmilch was captivated by the home’s exterior features, which included a stucco façade and a distinctive cedar roof. Built in 2005, this English Tudor-style residence stood out in a neighborhood often dominated by modern farmhouse designs. “As we turned the corner onto the drive, we felt like we were being drawn into a European country home,” Schlegelmilch recalled. The architectural details inside, including a stunning full-height stone fireplace, confirmed her initial impression.

The renovation vision was clear: create a space that felt “comfortable, elevated, and timeless,” heavily influenced by European aesthetics. Schlegelmilch understood that achieving this vision would require time, patience, and a deep respect for the original home’s attributes.

From Cold to Cozy: The Renovation Journey

Initially, the house felt “incredibly cold,” lacking the charm it once held. Schlegelmilch noted that while the home had been restored to an acceptable level for many, it lacked soul. “I could appreciate that the home had been restored to an acceptable level to most, but to me, it had no soul,” she stated. Recognizing the need for significant landscaping work, Schlegelmilch and her team began by removing nearly 400 yards of ledge from the property, a task that delayed the project by three months but ultimately transformed the outdoor space.

The backyard now features a pool, multi-tiered patios, and mature landscaping, turning it into a private retreat. Inside, the kitchen presented fewer challenges regarding layout but required critical upgrades. The original appliances were outdated, and Schlegelmilch redesigned the integrated paneling to accommodate modern standards. A new range from Lacanche replaced the undersized unit, while unique lighting fixtures from Matthew Cox became focal points in the transformation.

Creating a Family-Centric Space

Schlegelmilch placed great emphasis on ambiance, especially in the dining room. “There’s something about soft lighting and candelabras lit at the dinner table,” she remarked. A desire for a darker, sultry space influenced her design choices, leading to the use of plaster to warm the walls throughout the home. By repeating darker tones across various rooms, she created a cohesive and inviting environment.

The family room emerged as Schlegelmilch’s favorite space, designed for relaxation and togetherness. It seamlessly connects to the kitchen while maintaining its own identity. Custom-stained oak millwork and a reclaimed beam mantel added personal touches to the room. The fireplace was converted to gas, making it both chic and cozy during the colder months.

Schlegelmilch’s approach to design extends beyond aesthetics; she believes in filling her home with items that tell a story. “I’m constantly collecting and sourcing, not only for my clients but for my own home,” she explained. Her passion for sourcing authentic pieces, particularly from European brands, enhances the character of her family home.

Returning home after a long day, Schlegelmilch finds comfort in setting the lighting just right. “There’s something that’s so comforting when the lighting is set low,” she shared. This attention to detail reflects her philosophy as a designer: creating homes that feel lived-in rather than merely looking polished.

Through her dedication to this project, Schlegelmilch has not only transformed a neglected house into a warm family home but has also encapsulated her design ethos. With an emphasis on comfort, quality, and timelessness, she has successfully infused her home with a sense of character that resonates deeply with her family.