With its English-cottage charm, a young family’s Wayne home looked as though it had stepped straight out of a storybook. Yet, while its character was undeniable, the layout needed reimagining to create a space that worked beautifully for both parents and children. To bring the home’s next chapter to life, they turned to Michelle Gage Interiors, a Philadelphia-based design firm known for blending cheerful elegance with comfortable sophistication.
The owners envisioned a serene palette of blues, greens, and neutrals. In the living room, their dream was realized with creamy walls, a custom bookcase wrapped in green leather, and a sofa upholstered in soft blue velvet—a fabric as luxurious as it is family-friendly. “They wanted to enjoy every room without worrying about wear and tear,” notes designer Michelle Gage, “so durable, pet-friendly materials were a must.”
Built in 1935, the home’s historic bones provided a canvas full of character. Original oak floors inlaid with walnut and an arched entryway in the foyer were highlighted with grasscloth wallpaper, while a vintage powder room sink was elevated with a tailored striped skirt. “We love working with the existing details of a home,” Gage says. “This house had so many special elements, and we wanted the design to honor them.”
Throughout the interiors, Gage layered sophisticated patterns and textures. The playroom features a plaid wall-to-wall carpet, while the dining room is adorned with a whimsical mural of birds and tropical botanicals. In the kitchen’s breakfast nook, five blue-and-white patterns play together in harmony, creating a cozy yet elegant gathering spot. Upstairs, the primary bedroom balances bold florals with subtle stripes, resulting in a calming retreat.
Window treatments were the finishing touch. Soft shades framed by floor-to-ceiling draperies brought a sense of polish and warmth to every room. “The fabric selection was what elevated the design to that lived-in luxury feel,” Gage says. “It’s these details that make the home so inviting and timeless.”
For families searching for the perfect balance of charm, functionality, and modern elegance, homes like this Wayne residence embody the very best of Main Line living.
Ready to find your own storybook home on the Main Line, in Philadelphia, or along the Jersey Shore? Let us guide you to a property that fits your lifestyle with elegance and ease. Contact Sean Elstone to begin your journey toward refined living.
Photo By: Rebecca McAlpin
