In the era of open-concept floor plans, Shannon Eddings champions defined spaces with character.

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For an Austin family with four young children, she infused a new build with old-world charm through pattern play and moody hues. The client's wishlist: an attic playroom, a well-lit office, a stylish yet practical kids' bath, and a functional, cased foyer. "She wanted a mudroom and a proper entryway, and we enthusiastically encouraged it," says the Expert.

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While remodeling was initially considered, maximizing the floor plan and also staying within budget meant starting fresh was the wiser choice. Architect Stuart Sampley and Waller Build collaborated with Shannon to create a 3,800-square-foot home that beautifully marries old and new, practical and playful. "We brought the spice," says the designer, who masterfully mixed stripes and florals and added ample storage throughout.

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"Many visitors never get past the entryway. It should never be an afterthought." —Shannon Eddings

"Stephanie was such a dream client," Shannon reflects. "She gravitated toward what I loved, which made for truly creative collaboration." This shared aesthetic vision included cinematic, saturated pastels, unexpected pairings, and as much vintage as possible.

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For instance, the thoughtfully designed entryway features an antique chest, an eye-catching mirror, and statement wallpaper, creating an ideal spot to drop keys or check lipstick before heading out. "Many visitors never get past the entryway," Shannon notes. "It should never be an afterthought."

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For those interested in incorporating vintage elements, Shannon offers practical advice. Art tops her must-have list—like the charming dinosaur prints in one daughter's bedroom. "When driving through small towns, I always stop at antique stores to browse," she says.

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Quilts, lamps, and lighting fixtures rank high on her recommendation list. "We rewire fixtures regularly," she notes. Seating, however, requires budget consideration. Reupholstering pre-loved pieces often exceeds the cost of buying new. She also approaches desks and armoires with more caution: "Drawers can stick, and doors might not close properly. Second-hand treasures sometimes require extra patience."

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In the dining room, artwork by Austin-based artist Alexandra Valenti sets the tone. The space also exhibits her signature high-low philosophy: a splurge-worthy credenza from Round Top is balanced by more budget-friendly yet shapely table lamps.

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Henning Kjaernulf dining chairs, recovered in a Zak+Fox textile, surround the table with character. "Playing with scale is crucial," Shannon explains. "The smaller stripe against Katie Ridder's larger floral on the window treatments adds richness to the space." When selecting fabrics, Shannon typically pulls huge sample stacks and has clients pick out favorites.

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The family room embraces offbeat combinations. A leather club chair and peachy sectional complement vintage accent seating. "We wanted something that felt modern to balance the granny pattern," she says. Sun-drenched floral drapes in a small-scale print bring welcome warmth.

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The upstairs playroom—initially intended as an unfinished attic—shows off one of Shannon's favorite color pairings. "I love yellow and blue, but the specific tones matter," she explains. A robin's egg blue sofa (in a performance fabric ideal for children) harmonizes perfectly with butter-yellow walls (Farrow & Ball's Hay) in this function-first space.

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When choosing the right lighting, Shannon balanced form and function: "It can double as artwork, but first consider practicalities like socket count and size." For larger ceiling fixtures, she recommends more statement-making pendants. The key question: Should it blend in or stand out? In this case, the choice was clear.

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In the primary suite, antique nightstands—her first purchase for the home—stand sentinel beside thoughtful linens. Pleated lampshades introduce romance, while striped curtains add a surprising element that still fits the vibe. "I gravitate toward warm rather than cool tones and enjoy using color in unexpected ways," Shannon shares.

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The kids’ bathroom embraces playful elements while remaining versatile. A honed marble checkerboard floor balances pink accents and floral details, creating an area that works beautifully for all four children. With clearly defined spaces and plenty of practical solutions peppered with elegant flair, this Austin home makes plenty of room for this family of six.