Ronald McDonald House Makeover
I always say: If you know you can make a difference, you have to! When I was approached to design a suite at the Showhouse/Ronald McDonald House of Long Island, I knew it needed to be something extra special.
The idea was for top designers to reimagine the Ronald McDonald House in rooms that would remain in the facility permanently. Because The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island provides a home away from home for families of children receiving medical care at nearby hospitals, those who visit are deserving of nothing but the best. I wanted to design a comfortable, happy environment to lift spirits and bring smiles during every stay.
I started with the palette—happy colors would provide a delightful distraction from what the families and young patients were going through. We grounded the space with a rich taupe, perfect for popping the vibrant colors used in the furnishings and accessories.
I’m most proud of the bed concept in this space. The spectacular custom pieces make the room feel like a true retreat. Other considerations were more practical: A space for parents to work remotely, and an out-of-the-way area for kids to play. My team covered every bit of ground in this design to give back and do good through design. This special project was an especially meaningful labor of love.
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Originally, this was one large room—a completely blank space. Robin created depth by designing an entrance area with an archway supported by architectural columns.
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All of the furniture, fabric, and wall coverings were custom made for the room. Robin designed the fun, unique beds, inspired by the shape of balloon chairs, using a combination of fabrics and vinyls. Contrasting turquoise-painted trim plays up the dramatic silhouette.
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Robin designed a custom built-in closet-and-dresser cabinet in the entranceway, giving the area a lighter look of a piece of furniture while making efficient use of the space.
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Along the length of one wall, a built-in upholstered bench was added to provide extra seating and storage underneath, ideal for extended stays.
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A comfortable chair and ottoman in the corner is the perfect spot to relax after long days of appointments and treatments. A desk was incorporated under the television for parents needing to work remotely.
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The modern bathroom features a beautiful mix of porcelain and glass tiles, with a custom vanity that feels extra special.
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Robin created the whimsical ceiling lights to highlight the room’s happy color palette. The taupe background of the wallcovering grounds the space, while the blue color is calming and the green, healing.
#ROBINISM
Our homes are a reflection of who we are…they also help us become who we want to be.
Place objects that inspire and uplift you in key locations throughout your home. Also...a little Feng Shui goes a long way!