A Home Makeover for Mom

Over the past decade, designer Tyler Karu and her mom, Candace, a writer, have invested in and renovated seven properties together. But none have felt as special as their most recent collaboration: a forever home for Candace on a wooded waterfront lot in York, Maine. The cottage was built in 1964, and though the roof was sound and the floors could be salvaged, the rest needed a total rehab. “After a certain age we can all use a makeover, and this place was no exception,” Candace says. She asked Tyler to oversee the design, and Tyler’s partner, contractor Kyle James, managed the renovation. “It was truly a family affair,” says Tyler. She chose quiet colors to keep the focus on her mom’s extensive art collection — and the surrounding landscape. “We agreed on the concept right away,” says Candace. “My style can veer into eccentric, but as a writer, I have always valued having a good editor, and Tyler is the best.”

Candace replaced the siding and columns, and added green shutters and a new mudroom entry.

“The art needed to be the star of the show,” says Tyler. She gave the pieces — including portraits by Candace’s mom, artist Jean Pilk — a luxe backdrop in the form of Schumacher grasscloth wallpaper. The sofa is by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, and the coffee table is by Jonathan Adler. “This room feels cozy in the winter and airy in the warmer months when I fling open the windows to let in the breeze off the water,” Candace says.

Function and beauty were equally important to Candace, a food writer and recipe developer. The floor plan wouldn’t allow for a larger kitchen, but Tyler and Kyle maximized the space by using slightly smaller appliances, including a 30-inch fridge. The backsplash is natural walnut. “It’s unexpected and makes this utilitarian space feel special,” says Tyler.