When Kate and Robin Ventura first hired interior designer Amber McCullough of Amber McCullough Design in 2021, they could already see themselves living in a home that she designed.
“They wanted to buy my home,” McCullough said, smiling at the thought.
She explained that she met the Venturas through the Parade of Homes when her newly built personal home was featured, highlighting her work as well as the work of builders Adams Kirby Homes. After the Venturas toured McCullough’s residence, they wanted to make an offer. Her home wasn’t for sale, but a similar Adams Kirby Homes spec house was available and, fortunately, still under construction.
“Robin and Kate came in when it was still just being sheetrocked, so they were actually able to have a lot of input,” McCullough said. “Basically, it was a spec that became a custom. I think we had all the cabinet drawings done, but they were able to pick paint colors, countertops and light fixtures.”
McCullough identified several ways for the home to accommodate the Venturas’ busy lifestyle. A simplified interior design approach would make it easy for them to come and go — with no fuss and little maintenance — since they love to travel. (Plus, a timeless design ensures they will enjoy the home for years to come.) The Venturas’ children are older, which guided decisions for the bedrooms and main gathering areas. A large banquette off the kitchen encourages fun family hangouts when all are home.
As a former MLB player, Robin Ventura has had many life experiences and adventures, and he’s amassed a wonderful collection of memorabilia and art along the way. He and his wife also like to buy wines while traveling. Custom Urban Ironcraft wine racks on the kitchen walls and floor-to-ceiling shelves in the study display their items beautifully. As a bonus, a custom glass pivot door by Monte Cristo Ironworks adds an artistic touch to the study — and glimpses of the goodies showcased inside.
“The home allows the family’s personality and collections to bring the space to life. It feels curated; it feels like them,” said McCullough.
The heart of the home, the kitchen, highlights McCullough’s nuanced design approach. A Taj Mahal quartzite island with radius corners serves as a focal point, complemented by warm walnut cabinetry and carefully selected textures. The soft shape of the island establishes a “round” theme played up in other elements, like the vent hood and golden dome pendants.
Such details demonstrate McCullough’s knack for “subtle intentionality.” Another example is found in the black accents that ground the space, appearing in light fixtures, fireplace tile and furnishings, creating a cohesive thread throughout the home. Custom linen draperies from Cloth Studios add warmth and texture, while maintaining a neutral palette.
In the end, the Venturas’ new home is even better than what the one they saw on the Parade of Homes. Why? Because McCullough prioritized creating a home just for them — their lifestyle, their family and their unique collections.
“Design is about understanding how a family lives,” she said. “It’s not only about picking pretty things, but also it’s about creating a space that truly feels like home.”
