125 Richey Avenue
From the inlaid floors to the original mantels and pocket doors, this house is the very picture of antique elegance. But it's the many hand-hooked rugs that make the house a home. Robin's mother has taught primitive rug hooking for the past 20 years at The Woolley Fox, a Ligonier fiber arts studio, and evidence of the family's skill is on display throughout 125 Richey.
Robin's handmade rugs grace the entryway, which also features calligraphy from 1780 and a folk-art cupboard from 1820. In the living room, check out the 1820 bucket bench and the cupboard shelf—it came from an 1850s general store! Persian carpets here and in the dining room add warmth and detail, as do the paint colors on the spindles and staircases (painted by Loren). Both rooms still have their original plaster flowers. The living room also includes a gas fireplace. Before heading upstairs, take a look at the renovated kitchen and bathroom (with its 1800s pie safe from Lancaster, Pennsylvania).
Upstairs, the bedrooms are home to a treasure trove of antique art. Children’s teacups and a barn painting by Sue McVicker, of Lancaster, lend a touch of country charm. The framed paper dolls are an old family favorite. The third bedroom includes a collection of three paintings by Carol Endres and a handmade quilt by Granney Donna, also of Lancaster. (Dog lovers: Keep an eye out for artistic representations of Robin's beloved Scotties as you tour this home.)
You'll find another of Robin's handmade rugs on the door as you approach the third floor. The sitting room and study are here, as is a fourth bedroom with a handmade, wall mounted quilt by Robin's grandmother depicting memories of the Missouri State Fair.