In the May/June 2022 issue of New England Home magazine, interior designer Jocelyn Chiappone, founder of Digs Design Company, is celebrated for her transformative work on a Newport Victorian residence. Collaborating with architect Paul Weber and builder Mark Horan, Chiappone adeptly blended historical preservation with modern functionality to accommodate a multigenerational family.

Chiappone's design philosophy focused on honoring the home's original features while introducing elements suitable for young children. She remarks, "The goal was to be historical in nature, but create a feeling that was chic, fresh, and sophisticated." This approach led to the preservation of coffered ceilings, marble fireplaces, and crown moldings, while updating spaces for contemporary living.

A significant challenge was reimagining the main stairway. Chiappone notes, "One of the biggest challenges initially was deciding what to salvage and what to change." The redesigned staircase now features oak treads, period balusters, and a mahogany handrail, enhancing both aesthetics and accessibility.

Throughout the home, Chiappone selected materials that combined elegance with durability. She chose velvet and leather fabrics, wool rugs, and damask and grass-cloth wallcoverings to create a chic yet family-friendly atmosphere. For instance, an oak cabinet with leather-paneled doors serves as a stylish toy chest in the family room, exemplifying her commitment to both form and function.

Chiappone's meticulous attention to detail and dedication to creating sophisticated, livable spaces are evident in this project, reinforcing her reputation as a designer who honors tradition while embracing the needs of modern families.

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