Tour a Unique Nashville Home With Playful Patterns

One of the drawbacks of purchasing a new-construction home is that it can lack personality. Amber and Barry Zito saw that as an opportunity. “This place was a total blank slate,” says Amber of the 6,000-square-foot Nashville house. The couple (she’s a spiritual director; he’s a music producer and songwriter) bought the home in 2022 and tapped local designer McLean Barbieri to execute their vision. “I wanted to include as much color and print as possible,” says Amber. They accomplished the mission with funky rugs, statement drapery and bold wallpaper (17 different ones!). They also kept their four boys — Mars, 10, Mercer, 7, Rome, 4 and Rockwell, 4 months (not pictured) — in mind when making decisions, like choosing kid-friendly furniture and layouts that leave space for impromptu wrestling matches. “Things are a little wild around here,” says Amber. “That’s part of the fun!”

Amber chose rainforest-print fabric from Pindler for the drapery, and McLean suggested using multiple patterns and hues for the Lee Industries sectional. “It’s a mom’s dream because if one cushion gets stained, you don’t have to reupholster the whole thing,” Amber says.

Amber sketched a version of the art above the fireplace, and artist Tess Davies painted it; each color represents a family member’s birthstone.

The kitchen just needed some finishing touches. They added Visual Comfort & Co. pendants, CB2 stools and a brick-inspired backsplash. The kids take over the spacious island most days with art projects and remote-control cars.