“It’s all about having a warm home to create memories in,” says One Kings Lane President Debbie Propst, who has opened her New Canaan home as the brand’s first-ever shoppable show house. Constructed in 1950 by architect Royal Barry Wills, the house “has been a labor of love,” says Propst, and was originally built as “a tiny bungalow.”
“Given my passion for entertaining,” says Propst, “and the love I have for the One Kings Lane brand and our customer, it felt really natural to pull those things together and create this show house concept in my own home.”
Propst, whose daily commute involves a five-hour roundtrip trek to One Kings Lane’s Manhattan office, says she and her young family have a “sense of ease” living in New Canaan that “you can’t get living in the city.” She wants the One Kings Lane customer to also experience that in person when they visit the space. The home will be open to the public the week of April 3 and then again every Friday by appointment starting April 21.
Propst worked with a team at The Studio at One Kings Lane the same way one of her customers would—collecting inspirational images and then sitting down with The Studio team to create a tailored design that speaks to her personal style. In the living room, a Brownstone Upholstery skirted sofa is anchored by two Bradburn Gallery Home lamps, both through One Kings Lane.
Her home embodies the brand’s ‘all-about-the-mix’ motto by placing unique finds alongside pieces designed and developed by One Kings Lane. The beloved brand is known for curating top Tastemakers as well, including Bunny Williams. Here, an Ave Home secretary holds a carefully curated selection of treasures, books and trinkets.
The eat-in kitchen, originally designed by <a href='‘ target=’_blank’>Sarah Blank Kitchen + Bath and updated by Debbie, features an Ave Home dining table and Aerin pendant, both through One Kings Lane. Although the farmhouse-style home already had good bones, modernizing the interiors with kid-friendly touches and whimsical details was a must. Window treatments are through The Shade Store.
“This house warms my heart,” explains Propst, “because it feels authentic.” White paint worked to freshen up the existing oak cabinets, while new hardware added a thoughtful touch.
“On the weekends we have lazy mornings around here,” says Propst.
A Kara Mann Collection for Baker | Milling Road coffee table in faded burl looks at home in the sophisticated living room yet conceals an ingenious amount of storage. The two round end tables are from the One Kings Lane namesake collection. An Aerin floor lamp adds a modern touch.
Art plays an integral role throughout the home. Here, a piece by artist David Grey is hung above a handsome console. Dozens of coffee table books add an additional pop of color.
A pair of pouty-lipped alligators are perched atop the family’s dining room table. “The sense of humor was important to us,” says Propst.
