Step Inside, an Urban Family interiors feature where we go inside the home of a Shanghai family to have a look around, and find out about their decorative look.
Over the past 10 years, the international community in Jinqiao has blossomed. With renowned international schools, extensive residential options and a convenient array of supermarkets, cafes and daily conveniences sprining up from the ground, it's understandable why many families decide to locate themselves here. The community spirit in the area is evident by the number of children on scooters, families taking walks and the abundance of greenery that brightens any day.
One home that stands out for its striking personal touch is Laurie Li and David Barr's villa. A winding pathway leads us to their four-story abode that presents rendered walls with a rust roof, resembling a villa from the Iberian coast. In contrast to the understated exterior, the interior boasts bold contours and a saturated palette – a fusion of modern European and traditional Chinese furnishings.
The credit for this design goes to the Barrs themselves. In addition to managing their global fitness equipment company Ziva, this energized couple keeps busy with their two young sons, Dalbert and Harry. The essence of their approach lies in a simple wish, to make this a house filled with love for a tight-knit family.
So, shoes off, slippers on. Let's take a peek inside.
In contrast to the living room area, which emphasizes verticality, the dining room is about broadening the space horizontally with an open-plan kitchen and a long table. The Barrs customized their vibrantly colored chairs by Roche Bobois Paris to brighten up the palette of this space.
The Barr family (along with Laurie’s mom, Mrs. Li) gathered in their living room. This energetic painting of a horse rising on its hind legs is the centerpiece of the house and determines the various tones of red that run throughout.
Amber-colored leather sofa set by Indigo Living.
This cozy hideout was transformed into a 'boy zone' for the kids. Inspired by The Beatles'classic hit 'All You Need Is Love,' the Barrs custom-made the colored letters L-O-V-E to surround the kids as they play.
This lacquered wooden table from DTL Furniture echoes the red depicted in the room's centerpiece artwork.
Dalbert's bedroom is a fun mix of what kids love: characters from Pixar's Cars and Planes films, as well as stickers of marine creatures dotted across the walls and a Minions bedding set.
The spacious, umbrella-covered patio provides the opportunity for the family to relax alfresco style on sunny days and breezy nights.
As a devotee to living a healthy lifestyle, Laurie's garden is laden with homegrown vegetables.
[Photos by Jimmy Mi]
See listings for DTL Furniture, Indigo Living and Roche Bobois Paris Shanghai Showroom.
