Case Study: Blending Traditional and Contemporary Design

Project: Modern Tudor Residence, Milton, Massachusetts

Design Firm: Hayward Design House, Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible

Lighting Partner: WAC Group + Schonbek

Project Overview

Hayward Design House transformed a historic Tudor residence in Milton, Massachusetts using Schonbek crystal lighting as a key design element, bridging old and new while adding continuity, dimension and visual interest throughout the residence.

The Challenge

The design firm was tasked with updating a historic Tudor residence while preserving its architectural character and reflecting the homeowner’s preference for clean-lined, contemporary interiors.

Lighting was central to achieving that balance. The homeowner loved crystal and metal finishes but wanted fixtures that felt fresh rather than overly traditional. The designers also needed to create visual continuity throughout the home while working around the electrical and structural limitations typical of an older residence. In the dining room, shallow wall cavities and legacy wiring made the installation of decorative sconces particularly challenging.

The Solution

Susan and Jillian layered traditional architectural details with contemporary furnishings, acrylic accents and modern metal finishes, using Schonbek lighting to connect the two aesthetics.

The team selected multiple crystal-and-metal fixtures to use throughout the home. After the first Schonbek fixture was installed, its craftsmanship, presence and visual quality confirmed the direction for the rest of the project.

Statement pieces in the project include a dramatic Vesca chandelier in the foyer, coordinating sconces and contemporary semi-flush designs. In the bedroom, a luxe Twilight pendant brigs a dash of glamour to the space, while in the dining room, a Priscilla chandelier showcases sparkling crystal strands below playfully cantilevered arms for a whimsical flourish.

Despite unexpected construction challenges, the team worked within the home’s existing conditions to maintain the lighting vision and integrate each fixture successfully.

The Results

The completed residence feels both timeless and current. Crystal lighting provides a consistent design thread throughout the home, complementing the Tudor architecture while bringing a contemporary sense of refinement.

The homeowner especially appreciates the way the crystal interacts with light, creating reflections and patterns across ceilings and walls and adding depth and movement throughout the interiors.

"We were able to work through every challenge along the way, from budget and structural limitations to design considerations, and the end result was exactly what both we and the client envisioned. He was thrilled when the project was complete," said Susan.

“We are proud of the way that the design came together in harmony with the traditional architecture of the home and the way that it feels comfortable, yet luxurious,” agreed Jillian.

For Hayward Design House, the project also reinforced the value of its ongoing relationship with WAC Group.

“We try to incorporate WAC Group products on every project when we can. We love working with the team, and the quality is excellent,” said Susan.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Delaney Photography

Styling: Parker Bowie Larson

Featured Schonbek Products

● Organza Wall Sconce, BWS65428

● Rivendell Flush Mount, 9845

● Vesca Wall Sconce, VA8332

● Vesca Chandelier, VA8339

● Twilight Pendant, MR1006

● Priscilla Chandelier, BC7110

● Esmery Wall Sconce