A flair for decorating usually is attributed to the lady of the house. But in the Prince family, husband Jarrell Prince rules the color swatch. Connie, his wife, admits they have the same tastes so she usually agrees with his choices – such as the neighborhood house he brought the family to check out.
The home they set out to make their own originally was one story. All that is left after an extensive remodel is a downstairs living room wall that includes an original fireplace and the downstairs flooring. The remodel took place about seven years ago, when the second story was added and the downstairs reconfigured. Four bedrooms were created, along with two living and dining areas and two studies, plus an updated kitchen.
“We were very lucky that so much work had already been done,” Connie says. Once the Princes arrived, they turned this pristine white home that was move ready into a castle, full of rich colors.
“We like color,” Connie laughs.
The couple has painted and glazed the walls and downstairs woodwork, including the doors and crown moldings, in a gold tone. Selling points for them were the original hardwood floors, already in excellent condition, and the downstairs study where Jarrell could work at home as needed.
The master bedroom is home to a four-poster bed and elegant sitting area. Ashley, who is entering third grade, has her room painted purple, the color of royalty. And Reid, who is entering seventh grade, has a red bathroom adjoining his bedroom (or maybe that is Texas A&M maroon to go along with his Texas A&M pictures).
Ashley and Reid also have a study on the second-floor landing where they spend their time on homework and playing on the computer next to built-in shelves full of family pictures and memories.
Downstairs, the living room and den are formal and perfect for entertaining. The family enjoys company, especially since they’ve added a swimming pool in the backyard.
Kitchen, breakfast area and den overlook the pool. These rooms conjure the feel of a cabin with luxury accommodations. Antiques and big comfy chairs invite you to stay and sit by the fireplace. The kitchen woodwork is painted a dark mauve throughout, including the cabinets and molding. An antique secretary in the breakfast room holds Connie’s teapot collection.
The Princes also landscaped the front yard, adding a flagstone walkway, and covered the porch with a copper roof.
“It has been a great move for us,” Connie says.
