Thirty Years in the Valley: Designing for the Warren County Landscape

I’ve spent three decades watching the seasons change from my home here in Stewartsville. I’ve seen the trends come and go—from the heavy country valances of the 90s to the stark, "all-white-everything" look of five years ago. But in a place like Warren County, where our biggest asset is the rolling hills and the Musconetcong River, the most lasting design trend is one that honors the view.

My philosophy has evolved toward "Biophilic Design"—a fancy way of saying we should bring the outdoors in. I recently updated my windows with hand-woven organic shades that remind me of the local wheat fields in late August. It’s a simple change, but as the experts say, it’s one of the best ways to make a home look expensive without spending a fortune.

Living in an older home in the Stewartsville area, you learn that light is your best friend. I’ve stopped using heavy drapes that "strangle" the windows. Instead, I hang my rods high—almost at the ceiling—and use light, breathable fabrics. It respects the history of the house while making it feel fresh and airy. After 30 years, my home doesn't just look out at the valley; it feels like part of it.