Text by Hannah Nance
Swathed in gorgeous, creamy neutrals, this historic house is inspired by art, history, and ancient traditions. The space, designed by Richard Tubb and Gary Olivieri, exudes an air of sophistication and cozy comfort with rich wood tones that ground the home and plenty of upholstered pieces to set a soft stage.
One of the standout features—and residents Ann and Paul Rich’s favorite spot in the house—is the living room, complete with a unique fireplace. “It’s my favorite spot all throughout the year but especially in the winter,” Ann says. Gary and Richard arranged the furniture to complement the overall style of the home and of the couple, with a love seat, sofa, and two accent chairs surrounding the stunning fireplace, perfect for cozy nights spent chatting with friends and family.
The kitchen is quaint and charming, with double cabinetry along the top and glass-paned upper cabinets above the sink and in the breakfast nook. An all-white color palette lets the dark wood of the floors dominate, giving the whole space a welcoming and at-home atmosphere.
In every room of the home, you’ll find art of all kinds—portraits, tapestries, pastoral paintings—evidence of Ann and Paul’s passion for the arts. The couple started their collection years ago at a local art festival, where they bought a piece from a college student for just $300.
Since then, their passion has grown, and their collection has flourished because of it. It now includes pieces from artists all over the world, including one-of-a-kind works by artist Arthur Price and pieces by Ann herself. Inspired by an ancient Native American tradition she learned 20 years ago, Ann makes the sculptures, called prayer arrows, with a certain prayer or intention, like courage, new beginnings, or hope. A large prayer arrow sits in a windowsill and holds special meaning—Ann made it in the midst a health scare during which she was unable to speak for five months, so she named it a Prayer Arrow of Intimacy.
One of the couple’s most treasured pieces—a portrait of Ann by Arthur Price—hangs in the bedroom, and is the artist’s only portrait painting. Combined with two other gold-framed pieces, the art adds a pop of color to the neutral, almost ethereal space. Plush bedding and two large armchairs beckon for a comfortable night in.
Throughout the house, Ann and Paul’s passion becomes more and more evident. If a home tells a story of those who live within, let it be that this couple has a love for the arts.
