A Connecticut Home Infused with Historical Elegance by Betsy Shiverick
June 12, 2019
I am constantly pouring through images of interiors for the blog and every now and then I stumble across an interior designer whose work stops me in my tracks. I recently discovered the work of Betsy Shiverick when I read a feature of her Palm Beach home in the February 2019 edition of Veranda Magazine. In the article, her work is described as “old-world grace with new-world repose” and I couldn’t agree more. Shiverick’s interiors are the very definition of classic elegance, boasting sumptuous textiles, warm, saturated hues and a thoughtful awareness of the history surrounding the pieces in the homes she decorates.
The rear of the 1854 Italiante-style captains home in Southport, Connecticut
Today I am excited to be sharing one of my favorite projects by Betsy Shiverick– a 1854 captain’s house overlooking the Long Island Sound in Southport, Connecticut that is nothing short of spectacular. The exterior of the home was renovated in the Italiante-style and boasts a widows walk, hydrangea lined pool, and impressive water views. The interiors are equally as fabulous and every room is like a painting; there are so many beautiful details, you want to stop and study each one. Luxurious elements including a dining room with a custom hand painted wall murals, a butler’s pantry, and a beautifully paneled library provide the perfect backdrop for an exquisite collection of antiques, artwork, and plenty of blue and white porcelain.
One of the things I love most about Shiverick’s work is that although the spaces she designs are grande, they also possess an undeniable sense of warmth, richness and intimacy that creates the feeling that the homes have been lived in for generations. I hope you enjoy the tour as much as I have enjoyed putting it together and I have a feeling you are going to fall as much in love with this home and the work of Betsy Shiverick as I have!
The formal living room is adorned with antiques and soft blues pair nicely with warm gold tones that are woven throughout the room
The murals on the dining room walls are hand painted by Eric Beare and utilize the same blue and green undertones that are in the living room rug. The mural features the same view you see out the windows of the home, but reflects transports you back to the 19th century. Shiverick also had Beare add personal touches of whimsy to the mural, through the inclusion of a golf course and her Cavalier King Charles spaniel sitting next to a Native American Chief.
I absolutely love the shade of blue in this chic butlers pantry and bar area
The copper range hood and brass pendant lights are the perfect compliment to the clean lines and creamy tones of this cozy kitchen
An inviting family room of the kitchen welcomes comfortable, casual living with a slipcovered sofa, potted plants, and blue and raspberry oriental rug
Another butler’s pantry in a soft sage hue doubles as a garden room and provides additional storage for vases and serveware
The paneling in the library is a rich mix of cherry, walnut, and sycamore is arguably one of the most impressive libraries I have ever seen
A stately nook in the library provides an extra space for board games and conversation. Can we also talk about how fabulous the hardwood floors are? Look at that detailing!
I will always have a soft spot for canopy beds and the antique mahogany furniture paired with the crisp bedspread and shams add a fresh, unexpected pop of modernity to the room.
A writing desk resides at the foot of the bed atop a show stopping medallion rug
The molding and architectural detail in the master bath, make the soaking tub the centerpiece of this serene retreat
An eclectic guest bedroom with red and brass details summons memories of youth and adventure
I always love homes with classic, understated facades, especially when the rear of the home is so fabulous. It’s like opening a present!
A pool and view that were made for entertaining!
The perfect spot to escape to at the end of the day
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Sophisticated Style has becme a member of my top four blogs I read. Beautiful, inspiring content! Love the use of quality, antiques in this home. Did you notice the cane settee at the foot of the canopy bed? So unique. Thank you, also, for the “Get the Look” at the end of the posts – you have a very discerning eye. Keep up the good work…and I’m sure these posts are work!
Thank you so much Beth! I did- every detail is just so beautiful and carefully considered. I am happy to hear you are enjoying the posts. They are a lot of work, but interiors are what I love so I am happy to do it. It is always nice to hear such kind words of encouragement from readers xo
Beth Christoff
June 12, 2019 at 7:59 amSophisticated Style has becme a member of my top four blogs I read. Beautiful, inspiring content! Love the use of quality, antiques in this home. Did you notice the cane settee at the foot of the canopy bed? So unique. Thank you, also, for the “Get the Look” at the end of the posts – you have a very discerning eye. Keep up the good work…and I’m sure these posts are work!
sophisticatedstyleblog
June 12, 2019 at 8:07 amThank you so much Beth! I did- every detail is just so beautiful and carefully considered. I am happy to hear you are enjoying the posts. They are a lot of work, but interiors are what I love so I am happy to do it. It is always nice to hear such kind words of encouragement from readers xo
Pauline
June 17, 2019 at 11:58 amBetsy , Congratulations , what a beautiful house and what you did to it is excellent !
We need your help on improvements at PF !