When our team began designing our #SliceOfHeaven new build project, our goal was to create a space that felt just as soulful as it did stylish — a balance of soft textures, rich materials, layered finishes, and above all, a lived-in elegance that whispers, “Come in, stay awhile.”
Our #SliceOfHeaven design isn’t just a showpiece; it tells a very special story. Crafted with care, intention, and personality in every detail, we embraced the design’s natural lean toward a transitional style and had so much fun mixing materials, experimenting with contrast, and layering in purposeful design moments that are sure to surprise!
In this exclusive Behind the Design, we sat down with our talented designer, Faye Serwa, as she shares the inspiration, details, and favorite moments from our #SliceOfHeaven luxury custom home design:
1. What was the initial spark or vision that guided the design direction for this project? Can you share how that inspiration influenced your overall approach and design decisions throughout the home?
SERWA: “The design direction for this home was inspired by a desire to blend the clean lines and functionality of modern design with the warmth and familiarity of traditional elements. The home naturally leaned toward a transitional style, so we embraced that by layering textures, mixing materials, and introducing both contemporary and classic details.
We focused on creating a space that felt curated but also deeply livable; full of personality, comfort, and soul. Rich textures, intentional color choices, and thoughtful layering helped to bring warmth and character to every room. The result is a balanced, timeless aesthetic that feels fresh yet rooted, with an inviting sense of home woven throughout.”
2. Can you walk us through the materials and color palettes you selected for this home? What role did texture, tone, and finish play in shaping the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of the spaces?
SERWA: “We incorporated a rich mix of materials and finishes to create depth and interest throughout the space. Pops of green brought a sense of freshness and connection to nature, while stunning marble added timeless elegance and a touch of luxury. We layered in textural tile to create visual dimension and tactile appeal, and used carefully selected paint colors to complement and unify the palette, ranging from soft neutrals to bold accents, depending on the space’s function and mood.”
3. Which spaces or design elements in this home are you most excited about, and why? Is there a particular feature that truly captures the heart of your design vision or showcases something unexpected?
SERWA: The entire home is filled with beautifully layered and thoughtfully detailed spaces, each with its own distinct personality, but we’re especially excited about the Kitchen and Butler’s Pantry. These spaces are truly the heart of the home and reflect the core of the design vision: functional elegance with a strong sense of character.
In the Kitchen, the custom brass metal hood makes a bold, sculptural statement and instantly draws the eye. It’s beautifully balanced by a rich green tile backsplash that adds depth, warmth, and a hint of drama. The quartzite countertops offer a natural, organic feel with their soft veining and durability, while the custom cabinetry, tailored in both form and finish, grounds the space with timeless craftsmanship and thoughtful storage.
The Butler’s Pantry, tucked just off the kitchen, is a true jewel box. We fully color-drenched the room in green, from the cabinetry to the stunning green quartzite countertop, creating a moody and immersive experience. A black marble backsplash adds just the right amount of contrast and sophistication, elevating the space while maintaining cohesion with the rest of the home. It’s both a functional prep area and a dramatic design moment, one that surprises and delights every time you step inside.
4. Can you share a bit about the clients behind this home? What inspired their decision to build a luxury custom home, and how did their lifestyle, values, or vision shape the design process?
SERWA: The clients were ready for a home that truly reflected their current phase of life, a space that felt both elevated and deeply personal. They were looking for something beyond the standard: a thoughtfully curated environment tailored to how they live day-to-day. Building a luxury custom home allowed them to make intentional choices, from layout to finishes, to ensure every corner of the house supported their routines, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.
While every design decision was rooted in function, there was also a strong desire for beauty and longevity; spaces that feel modern yet timeless, and that they can enjoy for years to come. This project was less about making a statement and more about creating a refined, welcoming home that feels like a true reflection of who they are now.
Stay tuned for more project updates for our #SliceOfHeaven project on social media, @alishataylorinteriors!
