To some, it may seem unlikely that a family home can be both beautiful and functional, but some spaces prove that both characteristics can indeed exist simultaneously. Kylie K. Bass, founder of KKB Interiors in New York City, prioritizes art that infuses timeless and functional elements into her homes, so she designed this house in Westport, Connecticut It’s not surprising that this is the case.
Tour this modern Connecticut farmhouse
The house is a light-filled, modern farmhouse perfect for hosting guests, and Bath’s clients, both avid entertainers, were able to make the most of the spacious kitchen and airy living room with its beautiful outdoor views. To ensure that the home was welcoming and cozy whether guests were over or the family was relaxing alone, Bass and her designers infused the home with warm fabrics and textures, clean lines and sculptural lighting.
I spoke with Bass to learn more about how she created a space that speaks to her clients’ needs today and is designed to grow with them as a family.
Kelly Bass
Before founding KBB Interiors in 2018, Kylie K. Bass served as an apprentice at several prestigious interior design firms in New York City. Kelly received her undergraduate degree from the University of Miami, double majoring in Communications and Sports Management and minoring in Business Administration. Kelly went on to study at the New York Institute of Interior Design.
The house has a vibe that combines modernity with a classic farmhouse feel. Take us through some of the unique elements of the original building. What changes have you made?
One of the house’s outstanding architectural features is the double-height window located in front of the staircase. Not only does this window draw attention from the outside, but it also serves as an eye-catching focal point inside. To enhance this feature, we chose to add a statement chandelier that serves as both a light source and a sculptural work of art.
For a family with two young children, how do you prioritize functionality and livability while maintaining a style- and design-focused approach?
When designing this open concept home for a family with two children, we prioritized livability without sacrificing style. Every finish and furnishing was chosen with durability and practicality in mind. I focus on sourcing from suppliers known for their modern yet timeless designs, ensuring the pieces are long-lasting in function and beauty. The coffee table, for example, is a perfect example of this, with its stained wood legs paired with a concrete table top, adding an eye-catching design element while being sturdy enough for everyday home use.
The home benefits from so much natural light. How do you highlight and maximize this feature in a space?
The abundance of natural light in this home is amazing and we wanted to take advantage of it to create a warm and inviting space. The homeowner’s thoughtful design approach plays a crucial role here. Although the home is rooted in modern design, the clear intention was to infuse warmth throughout the space. The oversized windows not only flood the interior with light, but also frame the beautiful landscape outside, which we used as a seamless extension of the interior design. This connection between indoors and outdoors becomes a key element of the overall aesthetic.
The family enjoys hosting and entertaining. How do you support this element of their lifestyle in the final design?
We specialize in creating spaces that are both stylish and durable, ensuring they can host friends and family without fear of wear and tear. One of the standout features is the reed pole, which we designed to complement the elements of the kitchen. Not only does this bar add a sophisticated feel, it also enhances the overall flow of the home.
With thoughtful choices, you can create a space that’s both family-friendly and beautifully designed.
What decorating wisdom would you like to share?
Don’t let kids or an open space stop you from investing in high-quality furniture. The key is to focus on choosing materials that are both durable and stylish, and choose brands known for their craftsmanship. With thoughtful choices, you can create a space that’s both family-friendly and beautifully designed.
