Welcome to Camellia Gardens, where the charm of Harrisburg, NC, meets the epitome of modern living. Nestled in this serene neighborhood are two exceptional model homes — the Redwood and the Madison. Discover the inspiration, design process, and distinctive features that make each home stand out.

Inspiration Behind the Design:

The driving force behind the design of these model homes was to create a distinct look for each. The Madison exudes a masculine and modern vibe, while the Redwood embraces a more feminine and transitional design. From the start of the design process through to the end, the goal of Unscripted Interior Design’s team has been clear — to create distinct identities for each home, ensuring that homeowners find a space that resonates with their unique tastes and preferences.

Design Process:

Crafting two distinct homes requires careful consideration. Instead of adhering to a single design, the Unscripted Interior Design team took a bold approach, opting for a modern and industrial concept for the Madison and a fresh, light, and bright aesthetic for the Redwood.

Unique Features of Each Room:

The Redwood:

• Kitchen & Breakfast Area: A built-in breakfast banquette provides additional sitting space and a casual dining area.
• Dining Room: A grand statement is made with ceiling details and slipcovered dining chairs which add softness.
• Family Room: The mix of materials creates a dynamic space, offering plenty of room for the whole family.
• Rec Room: A multi-use space with a modular sofa for various activities, from watching TV to hosting game nights.
• Premier Suite: Tonal trim details on the headboard wall bring a sense of calm.
• Covered Porch: Extra dining and seating areas for outdoor enjoyment.

To recreate the Redwood’s look, focus on natural materials, stained furniture, and soft upholstered items.

The Madison:

• Kitchen: Show-stopping countertops with natural movement in quartzite.
• Dining Room: Defined dining space with an area rug anchoring the table and chairs.
• Family Room: Modern and masculine aesthetic with dynamic lighting and clean lines.
• Loft: Playful paint details perfect for a kids’ space.
• Premier Suite: Sophisticated trim details incorporating art into the headboard wall.
• Flex Room: Ample storage and natural light create a space ideal for those who work from home.
• Covered Porch: Perfectly sized for a family lounge set.

To recreate the look, opt for clean lines, a mix of light and dark materials, and black-and-white photos or artwork.

What Stands Out:

The standout feature of both floorplans is their size and open-concept design. The Redwood’s soaring ceilings add a sense of grandeur upon entering, while the second floor in both models allows for versatile usage tailored to homeowners’ needs.

Materials, Textures, and Colors:

In the Redwood, a transitional coastal Americana style prevails with subtle red, white, and blue tones, complemented by natural materials like stained woods and natural fibers. The Madison embraces a modern design with a high-contrast palette, incorporating hints of yellow and abstract artwork.

Interested in seeing how we’ve designed some of our other model homes? Check out this modern farmhouse look in Gastonia and discover how we put a moody twist on contemporary.

Dive into Sherwin-Williams’ 2024 color trends. These four distinctive palettes are poised to redefine our living spaces, capturing the changing tastes of a society increasingly attuned to wellness and sustainability. As we explore these palettes, discover how we’ve seamlessly integrated these color trends into our model homes, offering a glimpse into the future of thoughtful and stylish living. From calming blues and greens to warm reds and purples, comforting deeps and darks, and subtle tints, these palettes showcase a harmonious blend of aesthetics and mindful living that you can experience firsthand in our thoughtfully-designed homes.

Pictured: The Bradbury model at Empire Camber Woods in Gastonia, NC. 

Pictured: The Hamilton model at Empire Kennington in Charlotte, NC.

Pictured: The Alpine model at Empire River Reserve in Greer, SC and the Redwood model at Empire Camellia Gardens in Harrisburg, NC.

Pictured: The Alpine model at Empire River Reserve in Greer, SC

Interested in replicating some of these design styles? We’ve made it easier than ever. Check out our guide to traditional contemporary design, fresh and contemporary, and modern farmhouse.

Welcome to Empire’s Model Village, a collection of sophisticated home designs in Atlanta. Here, you’ll find a variety of model townhomes and stacked condominiums — each designed to suit the needs of our residents. With open-concept layouts and luxurious features, these homes redefine urban living. Join us as we explore the remarkable qualities of these residences offered in our Stein Steel, Longreen, and Zephyr communities.

The Executive | Available at Empire Longreen

3 Beds | 2 Baths | 1 Half-Bath | 2-Story | 2 Garages

Key Design Features:

• Flex Space
• Outdoor Terrace
• Two Secondary Bedrooms with Shared Bathroom
• Primary Suite and Ensuite Bath with Two Walk-in Closets
• Similar Floor Plan Available at Stein Steel

Experience the epitome of contemporary living with the Executive stacked condominium. The main floor welcomes you with a stylish kitchen seamlessly integrated with the family room, promoting togetherness and effortless entertaining. A flex space on this floor offers the perfect setting for a home office or dining area, allowing you to personalize your space just as you’d like. If you’re looking to enjoy some fresh air, the terrace is the ideal outdoor haven, perfect for dining or hosting gatherings. The second floor boasts a primary suite with an ensuite bathroom, featuring two walk-in closets for optimal storage. Additionally, two secondary bedrooms with a shared bathroom provide comfort and convenience for family or guests.

The Author | Available at Empire Longreen

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1-Story | 2 Garages

Key Design Features:

• Outdoor Terrace
• Large Primary Suite with Ample Storage
• Spacious Secondary Bedroom
• Tandem 2-Car Garage
• Similar Floor Plan Available at Stein Steel

Enter the realm of the Author one-story stacked condominium, where luxurious design meets everyday functionality. The spacious kitchen takes center stage, boasting ample counter and cabinet space for culinary enthusiasts. The open-concept family room connects seamlessly to the covered terrace, offering a picturesque backdrop for outdoor entertaining and intimate dinners with loved ones. The primary suite is a retreat in itself, with a generously-sized bedroom and a well-appointed bathroom, complete with abundant storage options. An additional bedroom and bathroom cater to the needs of roommates or guests, while the tandem 2-car garage ensures convenience and practicality.

The Pioneer | Available at Empire Longreen

1 Bed | 1 Bath | 1-Story | 1 Garage

Key Design Features:

• Large Kitchen Island
• Outdoor Terrace
• Spacious Primary Suite with Walk-in Closet
• Similar Floor Plan Available at Stein Steel

The Pioneer was designed with the modern resident in mind. The spacious kitchen features an expansive island, stainless steel appliances, and an abundance of counter space that effortlessly marries convenience and practicality. The family room beautifully extends to the covered terrace, an enchanting outdoor oasis ideal for relaxation and entertaining. At the core of this home is the enviable primary suite, complemented by a walk-in closet that seamlessly combines style and utility. For additional convenience, this home offers one covered assigned parking space, a subtle yet significant amenity that enhances the ease of your daily routine.

The Professional | Available at Empire Longreen

2 Beds | 2 Baths | 1 Half-Bath | 2-Story | 2 Garages

Key Design Features:

• Flex Space
• Outdoor Terrace
• Large Primary Suite with Ensuite Bathroom and Walk-in Closet
• Secondary Bedroom with Walk-in Closet and Ensuite Bathroom
• Similar Floor Plan Available at Stein Steel

Comfort meets sophistication in the Professional floor plan. The gourmet kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances and a stunning island that stands as a testament to both style and functionality. The family room opens up to a covered terrace, an enchanting outdoor space for moments of leisure and entertainment. The home’s coveted primary suite is a sanctuary of relaxation and elegance, boasting an impressive ensuite bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. A secondary bedroom, with its own walk-in closet and bathroom, is a haven for children or guests seeking privacy and tranquility. Adding to the appeal of this home is a versatile flex space that can be tailored to your preferences, ideal for a home gym or a productive home office. Completing this home is a tandem 2-car garage, perfect for multiple vehicles and storage.

The Lindsey | Available at Empire Zephyr

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 3-Story | 2 Garages

Key Design Features:

• Second-Floor Deck
• Top-Floor Primary Suite with Ensuite Bathroom and Walk-in Closet
• Top-Floor Secondary Bedroom with Ensuite Bathroom
• 2-Car Side-by-Side Garage

Step into the Lindsey, a masterpiece of modern living and everyday functionality. The heart of this home is its vibrant kitchen with an oversized island, a haven for culinary enthusiasts. As you move through the home’s open-concept layout, you’ll notice that the family room seamlessly blends with the kitchen, flowing out onto a charming deck – an idyllic setting for hosting and eating meals al fresco. On the lower level, a sizeable bedroom with a full bath is the perfect space to host guests from out of town. The top floor is where you’ll find the impressive primary suite, boasting plenty of space and a lavish ensuite bathroom. And for those who appreciate both practicality and luxury, the side-by-side 2-car garage ensures both convenience and ease for multiple vehicles and storage.

The Middleton | Available at Empire Zephyr

3 Beds | 3 Baths | 3-Story | 1 Garage

Key Design Features:

• Covered Porch
• Built-in Kitchen Pantry
• Top-Floor Primary Suite with Ensuite Bathroom
• Top-Floor Secondary Bedroom with Ensuite Bathroom
• Additional First-Floor Bedroom with Full Bath

The Middleton floor plan sets the stage for seamless living with its open-concept layout on the middle floor. Step inside and be captivated by the expansive kitchen, complete with an oversized island that serves as the heart of the home and a built-in pantry which ensures storage is never a concern. Chefs and entertainers alike will appreciate the generous space, while the connected family room invites relaxation and downtime. Ascend to the top floor of the home and discover a private owner’s suite and bath, providing a serene retreat. A secondary bedroom and bathroom offer versatility, ideal for accommodating roommates or guests.

Have your eye on a specific townhome or stacked condominium? Contact us via phone or email to tour our Model Village today.

Next, learn how buying a home can lead to wealth creation, and get acquainted with Empire Homebase.

Natural stone, warm woods and neutral textured fabrics define this model home at Adelton in Bastrop, TX. Fit for an avid entertainer or those with small children, the Pecos floor plan boasts unique features that’ll impress. Learn more about how TRIO Design brought this transitional look to life and how their design team incorporated Texas limestone in the most unique ways.

The kitchen is one of the most well-loved spaces in the home — the movement of the Fantasy Brown granite on the island is the stand-out feature, pairing well with the neutral, ceramic-tile backsplash and warm-wood shaker cabinets. Black hardware and finishes were added for contrast, while under-cabinet lighting creates a high-end look and keeps the room bright.

The living room is a unique space for several reasons. For one, “putting Texas limestone on the walls next to the fireplace instead of on the fireplace is quite different than what is done in most homes,” says Liz Dulacki Eberhard of TRIO’s design team. Exposed brick beams on the ceiling is another coveted design choice to admire. Patterned pillows, window coverings and artwork are incorporated for additional interest, while two neutral couches and a sizable rug ground the room.

The game room is made up of crisp whites and soft grays, exuding a feeling of rest and relaxation. “The traditional box trim that carries through the stairs and loft is the highlight of this multi-purpose space,” says Liz. A bohemian-looking tee-pee and round-wooden table keep kids occupied and entertained, a TV makes it possible to watch the morning news or evening movies, and two comfortable chairs are used for reading. A black fan, window, and patio keep the space cool on summer nights.

Wall trim, streamlined pendant lights and more traditional furnishings make this bedroom a true transitional space. Black accents complement the room’s warm-toned pieces, while white bedding and neutral details keep the room from feeling overwhelming. A mix of metals is incorporated through the finishing touches, adding a subtle hint of shimmer to an otherwise neutral color scheme. Various patterns and textures create movement in the space, drawing attention to something new each time someone enters the room.

Next, discover four inspiring ways to design rooms to suit your needs and this Texas-Hill Country home with an entirely different look.

Blending urban elements with contemporary design, the Brisco model at Emory Glen is anything but ordinary. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in Magnolia, TX spanning 2,393 sq.ft. uses shades of emerald green, deep grayed-down blues, mustard golds, and teal to create a memorable and contemporary urban design, making anyone who enters feel welcome and energized.

“This home is a carefully crafted masterpiece that offers an unparalleled living experience,” says Kendall Schmitt of Nancy Rae Interiors. Warm leathers, deep-colored upholstery, brushed gold metal, and rustic woods complement the overall color scheme — bringing together unexpected elements that make this home a show-stopper.

Discover the inspiration behind the Brisco’s unique design and learn how to curate the urban contemporary home of your dreams.

As the focal point of the home, the living room’s ample size makes it an ideal space for all sorts of activities including game nights, watching movies, or chatting over drinks with friends. Its bright and airy feel is balanced by warm leathers and bold hues of green and blue, and is the perfect segue to the impressive outdoor living area — providing the best of indoor and outdoor living.

If you’re someone who loves to host, this kitchen will not disappoint. An open-concept floor plan keeps the room feeling bright and airy, ensuring you’re always a part of the action. A dark green island and backsplash provide contrast and pops of color, complementing the home’s lush jewel-toned color scheme, while wicker chairs and iron lighting add texture to the space.

The dining room has a transformative quality that can be curated to suit your needs. Its impressive size is the ideal backdrop for kids to complete homework and have a quick breakfast during the week, or for hosting dinner parties on the weekend. “The possibilities are endless when you have a space open to the kitchen,” Kendall explains. An oversized chestnut-colored table adds warmth and texture to the space, complementing blue velour dining chairs for a muted pop of color.

Radiating warmth and comfort, the primary bedroom is the ideal getaway after a long day. Its bold wallpaper and varying wooden textured furnishings make the space memorable, while a green lounge chair is the perfect place to kick back and relax. “Each room has warm textures that act as the perfect canvas for pops of color,” says Kendall. “We used layers of deep jewel tones to create a design that is comfortable, yet energizing.”

Now’s your chance to own a beautiful new home at Emory Glen. Book an appointment via phone or email to tour this stunning model.

Looking for more design inspiration? Discover Kendall’s take on light and bright southern-style and 4 tips to help you create a healthy home environment.

Images courtesy of: Wayfair (Ryandale Upholstered Armchair, Amoret Upholstered Ottoman, Ceramic 3-Piece Kitchen Canister Set, Almina Decorative Bowl, Natural Jute Rectangular Placemat, Frankie Geometric Pendant, Melody Crystal White Wine Glass, Ronaldo Upholstered Lounge Chair, Clematite Handmade Cotton Rug, Lamariana Dining Table, Kora Upholstered Chair); Sundance (Farida Kilim Rug); Paynes Gray (Four Hands Kiera Swivel Chair); World Market (Amolea Vintage Rattan Stool, Long Oval Chestnut Wood Fluted Russo Dining Table); Burke Decor (Eaton Coffee Table, Westport Geometric Wallpaper); Overstock (Alpine Trig Panel Bed).

Designed to radiate light and southern flare, the Archer at Emory Glen is a space you can envision living in for years to come. Designer Kendall Schmitt of Texas’ Nancy Rae Interiors kept this in mind when she curated this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom family home spanning 2,388 sq.ft. in Magnolia, TX.

Clean lines, neutral backdrops, and pops of color create an inviting atmosphere when walking in. “We wanted to put together a color scheme that gives energy and excitement to anyone who enters — a happy home that appeals to everyone,” says Kendall. What did she use to tie it all together? Carefully selected artwork that amplifies the home’s pops of color, while showcasing its luxurious finishes and open-concept design.

Nestled in the main living space of the home, the kitchen’s high ceiling is an instant attention grabber. Neutral tones and high ceilings keep the space feeling spacious and bright, while an open-concept floor plan is ideal for entertaining guests and convenience when cooking.

With multiple windows and easy access to the dining room, the home’s main living space is an entertainer’s dream. Maximized for entertainment and comfort, light-colored staple pieces and a mixed-texture coffee table add a fun touch to the area, while a pastel green rug keeps the space grounded.

With ample space to host parties of 10 or more, the dining room has incredible potential. “The possibilities are endless with this kind of square footage that is open to your living area and kitchen, and also to the home’s outdoor living space,” adds Kendall. The optional sliding door serves as a focal point as you walk into the home, setting the stage for the space’s impressive beige dining table and stunning artwork. A gold-accent chandelier ties the whole look together, while adding texture to the room.

Exuding luxury and warmth, the primary bedroom is an enviable part of the home. The vaulted ceiling makes the space feel open and bright, complemented by sheer drapes, allowing an abundance of natural light into the room. The light wooden furnishings and patterned headboard add a custom touch, with the same pattern from the headboard used on the smaller window’s treatment. “Comfortable, performance-grade upholstery is essential,” says Kendall. “We love functional pieces that keep with the trend of staying light, while still being user-friendly.”

Now’s your chance to own a beautiful new home at Emory Glen. Book an appointment via phone or email to view this breathtaking model.

Looking for more design inspiration? Discover Kendall’s take on eclectic contemporary design and learn how to give ordinary household items a refresh.

Images courtesy of: Burke Decor (Muestra Counter Stool); Hub Bell (Cayce Collection Three-Light Pendant); Paragon PG (Folk Florish S/4); Overstock (Prima Dining Table); Crate and Barrel (KST Sofa); Williams Sonoma (Majorca 4 Door Credenza); Wayfair (Arbor Cocktail Table, Dwyer Upholstered Headboard, Alden Round Wall Mirror, Hyacinth and Wood Handled Wicker Basket, Power Loomed Performance Rug, Becki Owens x Surya Calla Jute Area Rug, Teo Upholstered Swivel Club Chair); Build With Ferguson (Mariposa 6 Light Wide Chandelier); Chairish (Vintage Faux Bamboo White China Cabinet); West Elm (Luisa Carved Six-Drawer Dresser).

Modern, comfortable, and fun. These are just a few words one might use to describe Empire’s new model home at Parmer Ranch located in the picturesque Texas Hill Country in Georgetown, Texas.

Spanning 2,963 sq.ft., this 2-story, 4-bedroom and 3.5-bathroom home designed by Kendall Schmitt of Nancy Rae Interiors combines warmth and functionality through clean lines and modern finishes, catering to everyone from young families to seasoned homeowners.

The vision for this home was to create a design that caters to the needs of the Parmer Ranch resident. Kendall says keeping the lines soft and using a blue color palette creates a sense of “peacefulness, tranquility, security, and order” upon entering.

At the onset of the design process, fabrics and materials were carefully selected to embody the home’s modern and comfortable feel. Unique features such as a breakfast room, notably Kendall’s favorite part of the floor plan, create ideal spaces for families to gather and entertain for years to come.

Shop the Look

Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the Parmer Ranch community. Book an appointment with us today to privately tour this breathtaking home.

Need some design inspiration for the retreat? Check out 4 Inspiring Ways to Design Rooms to Suit Your Needs. Is soft contemporary more your vibe? Click here to learn how to design the soft contemporary home of your dreams, inspired by our model home at Santa Rita Ranch in Liberty Hill.

Images courtesy of: Uttermost (Ivanna Counter Stool, Davenport Bench); Burke Decor (Augustine Dining Bench, Augustine Swivel Chair, Sinclair Large Round Ottoman, Carmel Small Cabinet, Luna Chaise, Aurora Swivel Chair, Silver Landscape Wall Art); Kathy Kuo Home (Mona Mid Century Antique Rustic Metal Tulip Dining Table); Salt Flat Home (Laurel Sofa); Crate and Barrel (Panos Dining Table); Perigold (ModShop Upholstered Dining Chair, Four Hands Ula Executive Desk); One Kings Lane (Nemus Panel Bed); All Modern (Samuel 6-Drawer Dresser, Anren Swivel Office Chair); West Elm (Erik Swivel Chair); Overstock (Tennyson Handmade Abstract Area Rug); Olliix (Rigby 3-Drawer Writing Desk); Poly and Bark (Weave Chair) .

A limited release of townhomes is now available at Empire Maven located on Avenue Road, and Toronto-based design firm Truong Ly Design just staged the first of three. Naturally, we asked their design team seven questions about this exclusive home, and we couldn’t resist sharing their answers with you. In this exclusive one-on-one interview, they discuss their inspiration for The Leland and what the design process entailed, highlighting everything from conception to decorating IRL.

The Leland
2 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 2,388 sq.ft.

4. Talk us through the design process from concepts to staging and completion.

“At the start of the design process, we took time to understand our demographic and the overall end-user experience. We wanted to use a design style that was universally accepted, and of course one that was beautiful and elevated. Once we established the target audience in addition to their wants and needs, we ultimately chose a contemporary design style and a neutral palette. The staging process is what really brought the design intent together. After the main furniture pieces were installed, the finishing touches were implemented by accessorizing. Every detail we incorporated has form and function which makes the space feel lifestyle-oriented and welcoming like a home should.”

5. In your opinion, what stands out to you about this floor plan? What makes it different than the other townhomes you’ve seen?

“Over the past few years, open-concept design has been every designer’s layout preference. Now, we find that homeowners appreciate having separate spaces for separate uses. This is a major lifestyle change that’s the result of people spending more time at home, especially during the pandemic.”

“When you enter The Leland, you’re greeted by a spacious foyer that leads you to the living and dining space that’s perfect for entertaining guests or spending time with loved ones. As you walk down the hallway, you land upon the kitchen which features a round breakfast table and servery — detached from the formal dining and living area. With this layout, homeowners gain a more intimate and everyday-use kitchen space. Up the stairway, the master suite has a queen bed and a beautiful balcony with a view of the street. The room also boasts a luxurious ensuite with a double vanity, and two walk-in-closets. The secondary bedroom is the perfect addition for guests or family members who’re planning an extended stay, with a private bathroom and balcony at their disposal. Overall, it’s a very functional space.”

6. What materials, textures and colours did you use? How did they align with the overall look and feel of the suite?

“The townhome has white walls, light hardwood flooring, grey millwork, and stone finishes in the kitchen and bath. When it came to furnishing the home, we loved having a blank canvas to work with. Our goal was to create an inviting feeling through the material and texture of furniture and accessories. A mix of light neutrals — beige, cream and white — was used in various textures to brighten the space, and impart a feeling of openness while bringing in warmth. To ground the interior and add contrast, we incorporated pops of black through smaller furniture pieces. Colour was implemented through the art and decor selected to add more visual interest to the space.”

7. How can homeowners recreate this look in their home? List a few staple pieces they’d need.

“To recreate the look of this home’s main living spaces, incorporate a range of furniture and accessories in a neutral colour scheme, and add bold, black accents for contrast and balance. Select abstract artwork and lighting to help to achieve the home’s mid-century modern vibe. Plants such as trees, branches and florals will add life to the space, while mirrors can help create the illusion of a larger interior. When it comes to the upstairs bedrooms, the colour palette is more playful, meaning that it’s the perfect place to infuse your personality into the design. Choose an accent colour, and create harmony by opting for neutrals throughout the rest of the space.”

Interested in Maven’s limited release of townhomes? Learn more about these exclusive housing opportunities now, starting from the high $2 millions. Don’t forget to tour the townhomes at our open house each weekend at 412, 414 and 416 Brookdale Avenue. Please note: Limited parking is available at the back of the Maven presentation centre, located at 1666 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON. Additional parking is available along Avenue Road.

Our model home at Santa Rita Ranch in Liberty Hill just got a much-needed refresh and we could not be happier with how the space turned out. Kendall and Nancy Schmitt of Houston design studio Nancy Rae Interiors were the forces behind the transformation, turning a utilitarian design into a soft contemporary home.

Reflecting on the design process, Kendall — the firm’s Design Director — shared that there was a lot of brainstorming that took place between herself and Empire’s marketing team. Prior to redesigning each room, buyers in the neighborhood shared their desire for a lifestyle-oriented home with a clean design that still felt warm and inviting. This mother-daughter duo achieved just that by utilizing every square foot of the floor plan and creating memory points in each room using wall treatments, paint details and built-in features.

A fresh update to any home like this brings a sense of renewal. Over the past few years and still to this day, we have and continue to spend more time at home than ever before. By creating a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, being at home becomes that much better. “If you refresh your kitchen with paint and new countertops, you may find yourself cooking more because you enjoy spending time in that space,” says Kendall. “Likewise, if you have a large sectional to sit on, you may find yourself watching more movies with your family and spending quality time together.” Learn more about the newest changes made to The Richmond — a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom and 2,638 sq.ft. home.

Paint Colors and Wall Treatments

Interested in touring The Richmond model and seeing its refreshed decor in all its glory? Book an appointment now. Next, go behind the design of our model home at Venetian Pines in Conroe, Texas.

When Kendall and Nancy Schmitt of Houston design studio Nancy Rae Interiors were asked to refresh our model home at Santa Rita Ranch in Liberty Hills, they accepted the opportunity with open arms. The Richmond is a 4-bedroom and 3-bathroom home that boasts 2,638 sq.ft., and a 3-car garage. As soon as this mother-daughter duo stepped foot into the space, they knew they wanted to take this home to a place that was more contemporary for today’s homebuyer. After coming up with design concepts and pitching their ideas to the Empire team, Kendall and Nancy achieved a look that appeals to everyone, no matter their preferred design style. “By using neutrals and a mix of blues in a community where there’s young buyers, empty nesters and growing families, we were able to keep the color scheme universally appealing,” says Kendall.

Because each buyer has different intentions for the spaces in their homes, Kendall and Nancy made sure this open-concept floor plan showcased a variety of furniture so that those who tour the model can visualize how they’d use each room. Modern finishes that have a touch of sparkle were paired with medium-tone woods and silver accents to create memory points as buyers are led from one space to another. To replicate this contemporary design, Kendall and Nancy share the key pieces you need to purchase for your home.

From the moment you lay eyes on The Richmond’s flex room, you’ll be immediately drawn to the space. The room features an intimate lounge area where adults can unwind or play games, and a kids’ study with floating shelves and built-in desks. If buyers have younger children, the space can be easily reconfigured into a playroom. It’s meant to be a true multi-purpose room, adaptable to residents’ varied needs.

Home to a large sectional, lounge chairs, ottomans and a coffee table, the size of the living space is realized as soon as you walk into the room. As a result of its open-concept layout, the space imparts an immediate sense of grandeur and fluidity. Homeowners can rearrange furniture pieces whichever way they’d like — for optimal enjoyment or specific entertainment needs.

Featuring lightened countertops and a neutral color scheme, the kitchen gives off an open and airy feel. “The sink and island were strategically placed to face the living room to maximize the home’s open-concept way of living,” says Kendall. Black hardware contrasts the white shaker kitchen cabinets, while a patterned backsplash was used to add some dimension and texture to the room.

Boasting a spa-like ensuite, a large L-shaped walk-in closet and a reading nook, The Richmond’s primary bedroom is a true retreat. The room’s three large windows allow an abundance of natural light to pour in and provide views of the home’s backyard. A wall treatment was installed to make the bed stand out, and larger nightstands were added to accentuate the size of the room. “Bringing color into the primary bedroom through the use of paint and bedding allowed us to create some contrast in the space,” says Kendall.

The office is another room in the home that can suit a variety of needs. Convert it into a home gym, an art room or a nursery — the possibilities are endless. “We set this space up as a traditional study where someone might work from home,” says Kendall. “The ‘WFH’ movement is huge in the Austin market with so many people working remotely, so we wanted to show homeowners how they could utilize this space for that purpose.” Layered rugs and warm woods were incorporated into this room to create a homey and comfortable design.

Next, learn how to get the Modern Glam look at Empire Mueller’s model home. You can also download these top interior design apps to help you decorate your home, or discover what there is to know about perfectly lighting every room.