For Molly Cooke, the process of designing Chad and Lisa Shaver’s home was full of pleasant surprises. Landing the project itself was unexpected; it came Cooke’s way via a referral from friends at Classic Tile. Homeowner Lisa Shaver, who introduced herself as an overthinker and someone who struggles to make decisions, was “one of the easiest, sweetest clients,” said Cooke. And builder Tim Smith was so organized things moved very efficiently and quickly; the home was completed in one year instead of the typical 18-month timeline.
“Everything happened so fast. It was unlike anything I’ve been a part of in the last 14 years of doing this,” Cooke said. “And it’s so interesting that the project went so quickly, because the Shavers had no timeline. I mean, they didn’t even move into this house for a year until after it was completed. So it was just a very, very different situation.”
Without the pressure of a quick move-in date, Cooke had more freedom to make the best interior design selections for the home and the family. The Shavers had remained in Kingfisher to finish out the school year, and were preparing for a new way of life as empty nesters. They wanted their new home in Edmond’s Waterstone neighborhood to accommodate the shifting dynamics.
“Our design was intentional in having a dedicated space for different activities and different people, including our three dogs,” said Lisa Shaver. “Every room serves a specific purpose, which helps create an organized and calming environment. Chad enjoys playing pool to unwind and crafting cocktails for guests when entertaining, so spaces for both were high on our priority list. Oklahoma summers can almost be intolerable without a swimming pool, so fitting that into our courtyard patio area was imperative also. Being dog lovers, a dedicated space for our three pups has made caring for them much easier. We were able to create a room just for them so that they still have access to the outdoors while being confined to their space when we are away.”
The layout was inspired by a previous family home design that featured a U-shaped courtyard, sliding glass doors and open-concept views. Located just outside Chisholm Creek, the new home would also provide views of the property’s beautiful tree-lined areas.
Shaver wanted rooms to be functional, uncluttered and modern but not sterile. Cooke blended taupes and tans with the black and white elements to make the high ceilings and modern interiors feel cozy. She also introduced natural textures through wallpapers—like the Kyle Bunting cowhide in the wet bar and heavy grasscloth in the stairwell. Bold, statement-piece chandeliers were installed to hang low, giving the surroundings a more intimate feel. The game room’s custom-built banquette is one of many special touches throughout the home.
“From cabinetry design in the very early stages, to paint, tile, lighting, furniture and eventually throw pillows and accessories, Molly never let one aspect slip through the cracks,” Shaver said. “Every design choice she suggested has turned out to be perfection in our home.”
Perhaps the best surprise Cooke experienced while working on the Shaver home occurred just one day after its completion. The final install began on a Monday and wrapped up on a Thursday; Cooke delivered a baby that Friday. Once again, Cooke credits the amazing people—especially her associate designer Jari Escobar—who made this project so approachable, efficient and enjoyable. The people and the processes were as pleasing as the final home design.
