As a Donghia Ambassador and a longtime devotee of the iconic brand, Vanderford utilized this personal project to showcase the seamless marriage between historic soul and high-end contemporary design.

A Heritage Reclaimed

The home’s journey to its hundredth year was not without drama. After a minor flood forced the couple to peel back the layers of a lackluster 90s renovation, they committed to a full-scale restoration. Their goal was clear: honor the Prairie-style roots while infusing the space with the sophisticated, textural luxury that defines the Studio Thomas James aesthetic.

The result is a home where nothing is white. It is replaced instead by a rich palette of deep marbles, custom brass, and an incredible collection of fine art.

The Donghia Ambassador’s Vision: Iconic Style in Every Room

As a brand ambassador, Vanderford’s affinity for Donghia is woven into the very fabric of the home. The brand’s signature blend of Italian craftsmanship and modern glamour acts as a bridge between the home’s 1920s origins and its future.

Balancing Formality and Comfort

“The Centennial” is a masterclass in tension. In the primary bath, Borghini marble meets limestone in a bold checkerboard floor. Vanderford describes this as the perfect balance between formality and casualness.

Throughout the home, 53 windows flood the rooms with light. This illuminates a curated mix of heirlooms, including pottery and woodwork crafted by Philip’s father and grandfather, alongside contemporary masterpieces by artists like Andy Warhol and Marilyn Jolly.

A Legacy Continued

By replacing Victorian paint schemes with a moody, sophisticated architectural vision, Studio Thomas James has ensured that this Craftsman bungalow isn’t just surviving its second century; it is leading it. For Vanderford and DeVasier, “The Centennial” is a vibrant, living gallery where family history and the timeless elegance of Donghia live under one roof.