Interior designer Greg Feller at Hudson Home recently completed a project for a well-known author’s house on the Ashokan Reservoir near Woodstock, New York. A notable aspect of this design was the mural created by celebrated Rhinebeck, New York artist Richard W. Prouse. All four walls in the living room were swathed in a hand-painted mural depicting reservoir scenery, a tip of the hat to the original owner, one of the reservoir’s engineers.
Gwen Donovan: Greg, how did you discover the artist for this project?
Greg Feller: I first met Richard Prouse in 2020 when he was commissioned to create an outdoor “Ice Garden” installation for our holiday display at our retail store. It was truly a showstopper. As a renowned theatrical scenic painter based in Rhinebeck, Richard brings both artistry and storytelling to every project. When I approached him about this new venture, he enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to help shape the unique world we envisioned.
GD: Richard, what did the mural-making process involve for you?
Richard Prouse: The client was looking for a nature scene that could reflect the Ashokan Reservoir, the home’s architecture and the terrain. We had a sit down with the client and discussed my vision, which she loved and had little to add. I then went to work on a scale model with a pile of fabric and wallpaper samples to direct my palette. After completing the full-color model, we sat down with the client who had a few changes, mostly regarding placement of the wildlife and saturation of the palette. Painting began in my studio on the first of January 2025, on muslin, with super-saturated acrylic scene paint and flat white indoor latex house paint primer. Painting was complete March 3rd and I began to “wallpaper” it on-site. This took three days, plus two days more to touch up and clear out.
GD: Greg, what was your mindset for designing a space where the mural plays a leading role?
Greg Feller: From the outset, I envisioned a mural as the centerpiece of the room. When I joined the project, the homeowner spoke passionately about the history of the house — built by one of the principal engineers of the Ashokan Reservoir in the early 20th century. The reservoir, which still provides over 40% of New York City’s drinking water, became the inspiration for the mural and living room.
GD: What were some of the most memorable parts of this project for both of you?
Greg Feller: The most unforgettable moment was the day we presented the mural maquette to the homeowner. Seeing their joy and excitement as they imagined the full-scale piece was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me why I love transforming spaces in ways that move and inspire people.
Richard Prouse: Adding details like the blue heron, the cardinal and the rabbit in standing attention
Project photography by Francois Gagne.
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