Cindy Bertsch, a designer at the Toms-Price Bloomingdale Outlet, has provided a sophisticated and soothing design to update the Parlor Room for St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Evanston. Having seen Cindy interact with one of the renovation committee members, it’s clear that the project was a collaborative effort that everyone is thrilled with.
Designer Cindy Bertsch in the redesigned Parlor Room.
Cindy says, “People don’t expect full-service design to be available at our Outlet, but it definitely is!” The committee approached the Toms-Price Outlet desiring a cost effective redesign. Cindy searched for ways to achieve the most beautiful room possible while sticking to a critical budget. It’s amazing to see the many cozy seating areas and lovely room flow that resulted from their careful attention to planning the space and furniture selection.
Two elegant tufted-back sofas provided the flexible seating and furniture longevity needed for the room. A church parishioner, Katie Barthelemy, took the beautiful photography of elements found in the church to accessorize the room. The geometric patterned chairs are by Vanguard Furniture and were selected for their firm seat. They were dubbed the “Grandma and Grandpa chairs” because they are so easy to get in and out of. Nadia chairs, by Sam Moore Furniture, were chosen for the bay window because “we were able to have a collage of fabrics but still keep the price reasonable”, says Cindy, “The finish is in peacock blue since the window area needed some color.”
Across the room, the Nadia Settee has pillows that match the leaf fabric on the sides of the Nadia bay window chairs. A modernized sideboard – simplified traditional – kept things crisp and clean. Brilliant teal blue “Mike” chairs, from Century, are small scale and very comfy. The gorgeous scalloped-edge chest is a modern piece with hints of 18th century design from Hooker Furniture Corporation.
Everyone is pleased with the successful project. These before-and-after photos say it all!
North side of the room before redesign.
Long seat sofas create a flexible seating area.
Sitting area in “griege” and teal color scheme with multi-colored geometric print chairs.
Everything is peaceful in the room, including the light fixtures.
Original photographs of elements found in St. Matthews.
Multi-fabric Nadia chairs in the bay window.
Fun graphic prints on the sofa pillows.
Wall of closet doors was refinished on the south side.
Gracious addition of a transitional sideboard and modern chairs.
Nadia settee with teal blue chairs by Century.
Framed original photography above the sideboard.
Scalloped-front chest and mirror fit perfectly on the short wall.
