Last week, I shared more about the design direction behind our built-in mudroom locker project and the PureBond® walnut hardwood plywood is scheduled to be delivered today! I can’t wait to get these panels processed so we can jump into building.
This week, I want to zoom out and introduce another exciting project on our docket. This one is especially meaningful for us, given the season of change we’re in right now.
Why This Project Matters Now
After 21 years in the Army, Adam recently retired and stepped into a new role working with me full-time. This transition has changed our daily routines, our work dynamics, and our perspective on the spaces that support that work. Add homeschooling to the mix, and our home suddenly feels much cozier (and a bit crowded). My office and our dining room are stretched to their limits. We need a designated office for Adam and a better setup to support the kids’ homeschooling.
The Basement Before
A large section of our basement has been sitting in limbo for years. It’s on the other side of our Art Deco theatre renovation (you might remember this project!). As you can see in the photo above, the green wall to the right leads to the theatre. While the theatre has a distinct identity and purpose, this adjacent area has remained unfinished and undefined.
Now, we’re finally ready to transform it.
Introducing: The Highland Study
On a practical level, the Highland Study will be Adam’s dedicated office and library, as well as an area for the kids’ homeschooling. But at its core, this project is about more than just solving a space and functionality problem.
One of the interesting challenges of this basement renovation is its proximity to the theatre. The Highland Study needs to stand on its own while also complementing the bold, cinematic vibe next door. Rather than repeating materials or details, my goal is balance and cohesion. While the Art Deco theatre is dramatic and immersive, the Highland Study will feel calm, contemplative, and elegant. Both spaces should feel like they belong to the same home, even though they serve very different purposes.
Why Is It Called The Highland Study?
We named this basement renovation “The Highland Study” because the design is inspired by the Scottish Highlands – a place we plan to visit this year, God-willing (on points & miles, of course!). The concept also draws on Adam’s heritage; his family lineage traces back to Clan Henderson, and that history has guided this renovation from the start.
The Henderson Clan is one of the Highlands’ oldest clans, with a history dating back to the 14th century. The name itself means “son of Henry,” and the Hendersons were known for their strength and warrior prowess. How fitting that Adam was/is a soldier, right?
The Design Direction
My goal is for this room to feel grounded, timeless, and refined – rooted in tradition and shaped by craftsmanship, classic architectural details, and quality materials that age beautifully over time.
You’ll see warm walnut woodwork throughout, layered lighting for depth and ambiance, and subtle nods to Scottish textiles and finishes. I’m especially excited to incorporate the Henderson tartan in a way that feels thoughtful and lived-in. We’ll also weave in our personal story, including curated displays of Adam’s military awards and memorabilia as a tribute to the career he dedicated so many years to.
Our Renovation Roadmap
To give you a sense of scope, here’s a working outline of what this basement home office and library renovation will involve:
- Demo and prep
- Electrical rough-in
- Framing for built-in bookcases (with a secret storage feature!)
- Walnut woodwork and architectural detailing
- Install basement-appropriate flooring
- Finishing details that help the study and theatre feel cohesive
What’s Next
Just like the mudroom lockers, I’ll take you along for every step – from design dilemmas and material choices to trade-offs and the build process itself. I’ll share what works, what changes, and the reasoning behind each decision along the way.
If you have or could add a dedicated study to your home, what would be your must-haves?
Leave a Reply