A Wayne home for five transforms for a new era

After living in their two-story Colonial home for almost two decades, Michele and Phil Murphy decided it needed some updating.

They built the house in 2003 and their three sons, now in their 30s, grew up there. But with the boys out of the house, it was time for a transformation.

The 5,500-square-foot house includes five bedrooms, three full and three half bathrooms, plus a full basement. Floor-to-ceiling windows line most walls, bringing in tons of natural light. In 2022, with the help of Henck Design, they completely redecorated their living room and family room, and turned the dining room into a music room.

“Transforming this home into a timeless classic included integrating the existing architectural details, such as highlighting the dramatic stone fireplace in the family room with large modern art above, to accentuate the double-height ceilings,” said Sean Fertal, lead associate designer, Henck Design.

They incorporated a mix of transitional furniture with traditional fabrics, including damasks and floral patterns, mixing neutral tones with pops of blue and green. The same colors grace the modern art and accessories throughout the house.

All of the carpeting was removed and the original oak floors were stained a classic dark walnut. They painted the walls a soft neutral color, highlighting the trim in light gray. All of the furniture and rugs were replaced to reflect a classic style while still providing a sense of warmth and comfort.

Realizing the family rarely used their formal dining room, the Murphys brainstormed other uses for the space. With three sons who play instruments, they naturally decided on a music room. The Murphys replaced the upright piano they had in the living room with a baby grand in the former dining space, and surrounded it with a music lounge vibe by adding a chaise, artwork, and drapes.

“Some of my husband’s family members play instruments and it’s great when we gather here on Thanksgiving or when my sons come home to visit and we have live music in the house again,” she said.

Working around the existing stone fireplace, they created a family room that’s both dramatic and comfortable. Plush floor-to-ceiling draperies hang from the elegant two-story Palladian windows. A diptych of paintings by D’Alessandro Léon called “Grey Cotton Clouds I & II” fills the blank space above the fireplace.

The couple updated the living room around the black granite fireplace, adding plush furniture in whites and earth tones. Shades of blue are highlighted in the drapes, pillows, and accent pieces. A large dimensional painting titled “Giverny” by Shaye Rawson is visible from the front door.

“It’s so gorgeous, and just grabs you when you walk in,” said Michele.

Other than replacing the existing backsplash with a black, gray, and white tile, the Murphys left their spacious kitchen, including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, alone. They enjoy preparing meals on the large black granite island, bordered by plenty of stools for guests to congregate.

“When we have people over it’s a good gathering place,” Michele said.

When the kids come home or the family is entertaining, they enjoy meals in the breakfast room. When it’s just the two of them, they eat in the family room while watching Jeopardy.

The basement, complete with a bar, pool table, and game table, is where a lot of the fun happens. When Michele’s family visits at Christmas, they exchange gifts there, then convert the pool table into a poker table where as many as 16 players can be seated at once.

“Whether it’s gathering in the kitchen to prepare a meal, enjoying conversation in various areas, or simply relaxing together, these are the times that matter most,” said Phil, an executive at Cornelis Networks based in Chesterbrook.

The couple enjoy people-watching from the covered porch that overlooks a public park, normally buzzing with tennis players, dog walkers, and kids on the playground. That’s also where they walk their two five-year-old black labs, Stevie and Nicks.

From Phil’s unofficial satellite office on the porch, views of the park make working from home a treat.

“The covered porch shines on pleasant days,” said Phil. “The park offers a refreshing backdrop to my work. The sounds of nature and distant laughter from the playground create a peaceful atmosphere.”

Located near the King of Prussia Town Center and Wayne’s downtown area, the Murphys appreciate their community.

“It’s beautiful and there’s so much to do,” said Michele.

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