At Home: Designer Sarah O'Dell creates a colorful midcentury modern aesthetic for the Schmotzers

Ann Ricker
·1 min read

It was in early 2021 when Sarah O’Dell, principal designer of Dwell Chic, was approached by Laurie and Stephen Schmotzer to reimagine the first floor of their new home in an established neighborhood in the Five Forks area of Simpsonville. O’Dell was presented with a veritable blank canvas. With only a baby grand piano and a few interesting art pieces as a starting point, the homeowners placed complete trust in O’Dell to create a living space that was functional and comfortable -- with the only design caveats that it reflect a midcentury modern aesthetic and incorporate color.

Because of the formal living room’s large footprint, two gathering areas were delineated by strategically placed area rugs and matching midnight velvet sofas. A framed TV with art mode over the mantle is form vs. function at its finest.
Because of the formal living room’s large footprint, two gathering areas were delineated by strategically placed area rugs and matching midnight velvet sofas. A framed TV with art mode over the mantle is form vs. function at its finest.

The project began during the early months of the pandemic, so getting it off the ground presented the interior designer with a few challenges, foremost the start of supply chain and shipping issues. Furniture and fixtures were being sourced from all over the country and with delayed shipment and then one-of-a-kind antique pieces arriving shattered, the design team had to redesign with what was readily available. After four months of design revisions and waiting a full year for delivery on several items, the project required lots of patience, but came together seamlessly.

Serving as the focal point of the dining room, a custom-made light fixture was assembled using vintage colored glass pendants, resulting in a one-of-a-kind showpiece.
Serving as the focal point of the dining room, a custom-made light fixture was assembled using vintage colored glass pendants, resulting in a one-of-a-kind showpiece.

Shades of cool blue accented with vibrant pops of citrus, orange and red carry throughout the home. Layering of textures in the formal dining room and the whimsical rattan swing hanging in the sunroom are evidence of the great thought given to design details. O’Dell incorporated pieces from the client’s existing art collection that look as though they were purchased for the project. The result is fresh and original. And exactly what the Schmotzer’s ordered; stylish, functional, with pops of color.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: The Schmotzer family reimagines their home with help from Sarah O'Dell