Dalhouse
When I studied abroad in Spain, I realized a few things: big things, like wanting to become an architect, and smaller things, like how to be satisfied with 3oz of coffee, and how well Europeans, and their children, know how to dress. The Spanish dress their kids with the same effortlessly chic vibe as themselves. Many mornings walking to class I would ask myself, “Are those models? Are they going to church?” No, it’s just a Tuesday and I need to take mental notes…
Children’s Boutique in Five Points
Caitlyn approached me with a vision to transform a former dry cleaner in Five Points into a refined children’s European clothing store. With limited square footage, the space needed to function efficiently as a showroom while remaining flexible enough for events like trunk shows, birthday parties, and story time.
After exploring two design schemes, the French Pavilion and the Haussmann Apartment, Caitlyn selected the latter. Parisian architectural details—herringbone floors and ornate moulding—paired with modern lighting and furnishings brought Dalhouse to life.
Five Points Neighborhood
Old Dry Cleaner becomes Dahouse
SCHEME 1
FRENCH PAVILION
Designed as an immersive experience for children, this scheme draws inspiration from glass pavilions and European tent structures found along the Mediterranean. Arched openings, ornamental details, and a barrel-arched ceiling would create elegance and transparency, with skylights bringing in natural light.
Tented ceiling elements and whimsical murals add a sense of play, creating the feeling of entering another world.
SCHEME 2
HAUSSMAN APARTMENT
Inspired by Haussmann-style Parisian apartments, this scheme balances classical elegance with modern function. High ceilings and carefully placed windows bring light and openness to the space, while herringbone floors, ornate mouldings, and a central fireplace establish architectural character.
A full-length storage wall organizes merchandise and defines zones within the store. Natural materials such as stone, plaster, and brass lend a timeless, modern quality.
