M Interiors Tells a Story With a Tranquil Space for Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas

Overview of the Back Staircase and Downstairs Landing

The back staircase and downstairs landing, named Emerald Garden, seeks to serve as more than an area of transition, but, rather, as a place for tranquility and reflection. Designer Melissa Morgan says, “My aim was to elevate this space and make it a celebrated destination that can serve as the heart of the home and have meaning, rather than merely connect one to other spaces in the house.” Her choices of furnishings and accessories, a blending of new with antiques, stylish textiles, and a mix of contemporary and classical art, highlight an appreciation for detail and the ability to create a timeless aesthetic. Emerald Garden references the magnificent, custom wallcovering by Gracie Studios. Applied to walls and up the stairs, the saturated green is balanced with deep blues against flowering trees. A joyful cast of characters — birds, cicadas, woodpeckers, hedgehogs, daisies, ladybugs, bees and butterflies, favorites hand-selected by Morgan — punctuates the background. Richly detailed and sweeping in scope, the surface offers a delightful storytelling component and the application of lacquer, an added sheen. A custom runner, sisal floor covering, and Oriental rug from Retorra bring a delicate warmth and rich neutral tonality to the room.

The spacious landing at the base of the stairwell is well suited as an area for seating and contemplation. Morgan’s choice of a refined settee by Hutton Home is coupled with a pair of Louis XVI-style fauteuils upholstered in Claremont leopard fabric. The inspired Italian 18th-century walnut writing table from Robuck is accompanied by a Dmitriy & Co. desk chair in Holland & Sherry blue leather, a perfect locale for writing letters, taking coffee, or enjoying a moment to compose thoughts. A pair of blue porcelain lamps and custom shades, both from Vaughan, offer a graceful complement. A gilded gold mirror from Embree & Lake serves as a focal point and reflects the impactful wallcovering and surroundings. Morgan’s decision to install a pair of draperies from The Shade Store brings symmetry and depth to this elevated and inviting space. Thanks to our many partners for their incredible generosity, including Gracie Studios, Retorra, Vaughan, Holland & Sherry, Galerie des Lampes, David Iatesta, David Sutherland, Culp Associates, George Cameron Nash, Robuck, Embree & Lake, Claremont, Samuel & Sons, The Shade Store, Benjamin Moore, IG Art, Forbes & Lomax, Milan Design & Build, and Three Branches Floral. — M Interiors