“I think a lot of interior design seems inaccessible to people, as they associate it with extensive, expensive renovations and bespoke luxury items,” interior designer Becky Wetzler says. “We can do that. But we also love to show clients how we can put their personal stamp on their homes with elements like wallpaper, paint and furnishings and without having to remodel.” That was the case for this Bethesda, Maryland, family of six and the spec house it had recently moved into.

The house had lovely millwork, including coffered ceilings, wainscoting, crown moldings and tall baseboards. The kitchen and bathrooms were up to date and in good shape — remodeling them would have been a waste of money and materials. But the blank slate of a home lacked personality and style that reflected the family’s Southern roots and love of coastal settings. Wetzler and her team listened carefully to the homeowners’ wants and needs. Accordingly, they created a house made for quality family time with coastal-inspired style and hints of Southern preppy flair.