A Nashville couple’s multi-functional solution
What Meg and Josh wanted
Meg and her husband Josh adore their 1930s Arts and Crafts home with its rich original details, character, and history. But like many older homes, charm comes with a tradeoff: minimal storage. Most pressing was the absence of a coat closet, but they also needed storage for their book collection and dreamed of a built-in bench seating. With few places to expand, the dining room became the only viable location for the storage they envisioned. Meg and Josh wanted to be sure that whatever solution they introduced felt beautiful and integrated with the home’s architecture.
“The transformation created a space that feels collected and purposeful. It delivers the storage they need in a way that feels authentic to the home and to how they truly live.”
How California Closets designed it
California Closets Nashville designer Danielle Millis approached the project by reimagining what a dining room could be, using the couple’s vision and the home’s historic character as her guide. She designed a floor-to-ceiling solution that combines a hidden coat closet, a full library wall, concealed storage for serveware, and a built-in bench seat. To maintain warmth and cohesion, Danielle embraced a moody palette, selecting a warm wood-grain finish. Library lights at the top of the built-ins and gold finger pulls create further ambiance.
“I wanted the space to feel like a moody library from another era, and Danielle absolutely nailed the design.”
Final result
What was once solely a dining room is now a hub for daily living. The installation not only solves the couple’s storage challenges but sets a striking architectural focal point that’s equally suited for hosting dinner parties or curling up with a book. The space feels intentional and inviting and rooted in the home’s history rather than newly added. An unexpected bonus: the built-in bench has become the dog’s favorite spot for looking out the window.
Finishes
Wood Grain Siena
Materials
Slab fronts
Fascia with scribe molding trimmed to ceiling
Coordinating countertops & trim
Accessories
Paxton handles in gold
Mona sconce lighting
Note: Finishes and products vary by location. Inquire with your local California Closets showroom for availability.
Client
Meg and Josh
Location
Nashville, TN
Design Consultant
Danielle Millis
Photo Credits
JT Morin
