The 41st Symphony Orchestra Designers Show House: Oakland

I have been fortunate to be chosen again this year to design a room for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Show House. The annual Show House is the BSO’s biggest fundraiser of the year and it’s an honor to be a part of such a great group of designers.

I have been working long hours getting the room ready and am beyond excited to share it with you. First, a little history about the property: This year’s house, Oakland, was built in 1927 by Edgar Allan Poe III, a descendant of Edgar Allan Poe the writer. Upon touring the house early on in the process, I noticed lots of little details where homage was paid to the writer.

Original Wallcovering

Original Tiles in the Drawing Room

That famous raven

Introducing: Uncles Retreat

The room I chose, a guest bedroom facing the front of the home, I envisioned as a wonderful retreat where that famous visiting uncle would inhabit. I imagined he would be inspired by the expansive country-side views from the windows. This guest room has a 16^th century Spanish writing desk where all of those illustrious inspirations can make their way to paper. I playfully dubbed this room “Uncle’s Retreat”.

16th Century Spanish Writing Desk

Homage has been paid to that Uncle with a print of a raven and a quote by EAP himself from minted.com. The luxurious bedding helps to create a space that is cozy enough for any restless sleeper to find a peaceful night’s sleep.