The mudroom and powder room will share the same linen wall upholstery and similar rugs to the ladies study – but that’s all! The back hall is all business for the family. We’ve hidden everything behind drapery so the clutter is out of sight to guests who may enter from the side door. Three matching black iron and paper chandeliers will dress things up a bit.

The powder room's antique French mirror will expose the oversized contemporary art on the opposing wall. The “limed” oak and limestone vanity coordinates with the mudroom custom built-ins in both hand-finishing and design. We have replaced all the doors in the back of the house with drapery matching the walls for a buttoned-up, clean look.

At the back door we have a chest-high “message center” with plenty of outlets for cell phone and iPod charging. The wall is chalk and cork for notes and schedules to keep the brood in step. A cool Tolomeo armed sconce offers directed work lighting.