HomeOpen House: Tom and James’ Buchanan Cottage
17. Dec, 2009 
11 Comments
Thanks to antique dealer and all around good chap Alan Robandt for introducing me to partners Tom Ferguson and James Hartis who spend weekends at their second home less than a mile from Alan’s excellent shop in downtown Buchanan, Michigan. I had no idea what to expect from the couple’s place, but truth be told, I’d rather know less than more. I enjoy the thrill of discovery when I see something brilliant or new or something that confounds my expectations and makes me reconsider my design worldview (aka the Tate Doctrine).
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For example, I thought traditional design was boring by its very nature until I finally saw Tom and James’ sweet little second home last fall. In my head, floral prints had become intertwined with plastic sofa covers and the scent of rosewater – stuffy, proper and granny in all the worse ways. But I experienced an instantaneous and powerful enlightenment when I saw the pink and blue floral print wallpaper Tom selected for one of the two upstairs bedrooms. From the layout to the coordinating pink blankets at the foot of each bed, the room told me in no uncertain terms that it was possible to interpret traditionally traditional elements with a creativity and panache that makes them feel thrillingly new.
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Continued . . .
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Sure, fashion and decorating trends come and go, but even when retro is rad again, there’s always a twist, so while Tom and James’ furniture and accessories make a powerful impact, the space between those things is arguably as powerful as it is subtle. Although Tom’s a collector who likes to display his things, James’ more minimalist style has clearly been taken into consideration as well, and unburdened by the weight of unnecessary tchotchkes and dark, dreary colors, the couple’s traditional decor feels positively hip.
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After I finished taking photos, I asked Tom if I could see his portfolio, and I was struck by how fierce it is – unapologetically traditional with expert use of pattern, color and materials in often unexpected and always pitch perfect ways. But it’s color where Tom’s skill is most obvious, and indeed, every room of his and James’ cottage feels seamless, balanced and interesting. The slate blue guest bedroom located off the small living room makes the perfect calming place for an afternoon nap, and the fresh and cheery country kitchen feels makes me crave buttered white toast and homemade pancakes.
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Tom Ferguson Interiors. 3701 N Ravenswood Ave., Chicago. 773.404.7489
Click here for past Open House tours. And click here for a guide to the best southwest, Michigan shopping destinations.
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How truly beautiful! The blue flowered bedroom is my favorite, though their leather ottoman as coffee table is also very very nice.
Do you do any styling for these shots, Tate, or do you take them as you find them?
Tate, great posting; Tom and James, equally great interior. Is Tom Ferguson’s work the vanguard of a new softer, gentler minimalism based on talent and creativity?
This isn’t a level of style that can be purchased in big box stores. Timeless would be a good adjective.
Hi Tasha, I don’t do styling for Open House shoots, so this is all Tom and James.
Absolutely gorgeous. Every Single room. My favorite is the pink room. I love the way the chair goes with the wall print. Your creativity goes beyond my image of a perfect room. I bet that all future designs would go beyond expectatiions and uniqueness to all creations done by Tom. Never the same twice. I bow to both of you. Amazing.
I can’t wait to come and spend the weekend in the guest room. Also want to know if the kids can come. This is a perfect weekend getaway.
I, too, loved everything about this charming little bungalow. Everything was so clean and fresh looking and the soft colors are great.
You did such a great job. The fabrics/colors and eye for interesting
pieces.
Great and you both should be very
proud.
cute cute cute and fabulous.
Wow. This is just gorgeous. I love how eclectic the furnishings are.
I think this line from the post really sums up this home:
“Although Tom’s a collector who likes to display his things, James’ more minimalist style has clearly been taken into consideration as well, and unburdened by the weight of unnecessary tchotchkes and dark, dreary colors, the couple’s traditional decor feels positively hip.”
That’s so spot-on it’s scary.
Great job!
I agree with LeslySW, that dichotomy is key.
Lovely, charming, cozy and sweet! Traditional doesn’t have to be stuffy. Done right, it’s warm, welcoming, and inviting….this is definitely traditional done right!! Love, love, love it!