Former NBA forward Channing Frye and his wife, Lauren Lisoski, turned a dated 1990s home in West Linn, Oregon, into a height‑friendly residence after hiring designer Holly Freres of JHL Design.
Design challenges for a seven‑foot client
The 4,294‑square‑foot house, built in 1992, originally featured built‑in mirrors, heavy casework, and a beige palette that felt more like a time capsule than a family home. The Fryes, who have four children and a dog, needed more than a cosmetic refresh. “The home needed far more than cosmetic updates,” Freres told House Beautiful. The redesign focused on making the space functional for a tall frame while preserving a welcoming feel.
Architectural updates and color choices
Beyond structural tweaks, Freres introduced a color focus for each room. Bold wallpaper in the entryway and a playful pattern in the primary bathroom’s water closet add intrigue, while a palette of bright yet soothing hues creates cohesion throughout the house. Updated cabinetry, new plumbing, and statement lighting add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Durable fabrics and materials were selected to survive the daily life of six kids. The designer kept many of the family’s existing pieces, integrating them with fresh finishes to retain the home’s personal feel. “From architectural modifications designed around Channing’s height to durable furnishings… every detail was curated for how they live,” Freres said.
Room‑by‑room transformation
The living room’s heavy 1990s casework gave way to white‑oak built‑ins, and the fireplace wall received a custom plaster finish matching Sherwin‑Williams’ “Spiced Cider.” A marble mantel now serves as the focal point, paired with sculptural sconces that soften the room’s strong lines.
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The dining room features dark taupe walls and floor‑to‑ceiling gauzy curtains that highlight the ceiling height. A chandelier adds a dramatic touch that complements the room’s moody yet sun‑filled atmosphere.
The family room, described as the home’s “heart of everyday life,” features grass‑cloth wallpaper and custom Pierre Frey throw pillows that inject playful color. Soft lighting from sculptural sconces creates a cozy setting for movie nights and casual gatherings.
The kitchen’s layout was reconfigured around the range and sink, replacing an oddly shaped island with a larger version that serves as prep space, casual dining area, and homework station. Granite countertops became the room’s centerpiece, reflecting the client’s interest in gems and crystals.
A sunny breakfast nook now includes a custom banquette and round table, maximizing seating while preserving natural light and views of the backyard.
The primary bedroom’s grass‑cloth wallcovering offers a neutral backdrop for the couple’s existing furniture, creating a calm, subdued retreat.
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In the primary bathroom, terracotta floor tile dominates the design, while a subtle, playful wallpaper featuring nude figures adds a sense of humor. Double mirrors open into medicine cabinets, adding a bespoke touch to even the smallest details.
The eldest daughter’s bedroom received a fresh coat of paint, new bedding, and updated décor to reflect her transition into high school. The younger sisters share a bathroom that balances youthful energy with timeless terracotta tiles, teal shower accents, and vintage‑style vanity hardware.
Balancing style and practicality
Freres’ approach combined custom architectural elements with durable finishes, ensuring the home could handle a busy family while showcasing a cohesive aesthetic.
The project demonstrates that personalized design can be both beautiful and highly functional, especially when accommodating unique physical needs.
