09 Elevated – Geneso House
GENESO HOUSE
Abode Interior Design LLC: Gina Roth, Principal Designer, Shelly Antonacci, Interior Designer, Kory Jonsson, Interior Designer
Photography by Glass Lake Media
Set in the heart of Terrell Hills, this historic home underwent a major renovation that thoughtfully refreshed its architectural bones while preserving its original charm. Our client—energetic, joyful, and fearless when it comes to color—inspired a design that feels vibrant, layered, and deeply personal.
At its core, this home was designed with family in mind. With five children, three grandchildren (and more to come), it was essential to create a home that not only feels beautiful but also warmly welcomes everyone to gather, reconnect, and spend time together. Each room was approached with the intention of making it feel personal and meaningful.
Working from the home’s newly updated finishes, we developed a cohesive color palette that flows seamlessly from room to room, creating both continuity and moments of interest. Throughout the home, we balanced old and new—honoring its history with carefully selected antiques while introducing fresh pieces to create a collected, curated feel.
In the main living space, we commissioned a striking large-scale abstract piece by local artist and Alamo Heights resident Paige Holland. She thoughtfully incorporated subtle, personal elements into the composition—small details that hold special meaning for the family, adding depth and story to the artwork.
The dining room serves as a true centerpiece for connection. A custom trestle-base table extends to comfortably seat twelve, making it ideal for hosting both intimate dinners and larger celebrations. Above, two crystal chandeliers hang like jewelry, adding sparkle and a sense of occasion. We continued the bespoke approach with a custom Aspen tree painting, whose vibrant colors bring energy and life to the space while beautifully complementing the drapery.
In the formal living room, we created multiple zones to support both entertaining and everyday living. A comfortable seating area invites conversation, while a game table and a dedicated spot for spinning favorite albums encourage relaxed, meaningful moments.
The powder bath offered an opportunity to create something memorable in a smaller footprint. Anchored by a classic console sink, we introduced a printed grasscloth wallpaper in a timeless blue-and-white palette. While the color story feels traditional, the scale and pattern bring a fresh, elevated energy to the space.
Functionality was just as important as aesthetics, particularly in high-use areas like the breakfast room. To accommodate large family meals, we designed a custom banquette upholstered in a durable Crypton fabric for easy maintenance. The adjacent side chairs were treated with a vinyl lamination, allowing them to maintain their beautiful texture while being incredibly easy to clean—perfect for everyday life with a full house.
One of the most beloved spaces in the home is the study. Bathed in natural light and featuring stunning original mosaic tile, it offers a quiet retreat full of character. A cozy chaise lounge provides the perfect place to unwind with a book, complemented by a thoughtfully placed dog bed for her constant companion. A vintage desk and chair complete the space, creating a charming corner for letter writing and reflection.
Throughout the home, the goal was to strike a balance between beauty and livability—creating spaces that feel layered, vibrant, and effortlessly functional. The end result is a home that feels warm, inviting, and full of joy, ready to welcome family and friends alike.
Geneso House entry
