aspire design and home proudly presents The Art of the Home, a transformational designer showhouse set within a breathtaking 13,000-square-foot estate in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. This curated exhibition of world-class design, architecture, and fine art will run from September 19 through October 19, with an Opening Night Event to benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation on September 17.
Each Tuesday and Thursday, we’re spotlighting a different designer whose creative vision is shaping this bold, curated home. From behind-the-scenes peeks to personal stories, you’ll get an inside look at the minds reimagining what a home can be. Today, we dive into the pantry designed by RS Design Management.
RS Design Management is a full-service interior design firm based in Morristown, NJ, specializing in bespoke kitchen and bathroom designs. Founded and led by Rachel Savage, the firm is known for its tailored approach, technical expertise, and collaborative process. Rachel began her career at the renowned Swanke Hayden Connell Architects in New York City, later expanding her commercial design experience at a large New Jersey architecture firm before returning to SHCA in 2000. In 2015, she shifted her focus to residential design, founding RS Design Management to bring her signature blend of creativity and precision directly to homeowners. Respected for her professionalism and deep industry insight, Rachel works closely with trade vendors and contractors to ensure that every detail aligns seamlessly with her clients’ vision. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and meticulous attention to detail create a design experience that is as enjoyable as it is transformative.
If your room had a soundtrack, what would it sound like?
Rachel Savage: Night Owl by Galimatias. A lush, modern, instrumental with layered textures that echo the layered materials, moody lighting and luxurious details. It’s unexpected, a little mysterious, and effortlessly cool.
What’s one design “rule” you’re intentionally breaking in this space?
RS: In this pantry, we’ve gone against the grain by using a dark, patterned ceiling treatment, drawing the eye upward in an expected way. Rather than trying to visually expand the height, we’re leaning into intimacy and adding dramatic contrast that anchors the space. It brings a sense of coziness and architectural interest, making the ceiling not an afterthought, but a feature in its own right.
What mood or feeling are you hoping to evoke in this space?
RS: Elegant intimacy and understated drama. The rich tones, moody ceiling, and tailored cabinetry create a space that feels quite luxurious, almost like a secret room meant to be discovered. It’s warm, grounded and intentional, inviting the user to slow down and experience the pantry as a beautifully crafted extension of the home, not just a utilitarian space.
If someone wanted to take inspiration from your showhouse concept and bring it into their own home, where should they start?
- Define the mood first. Start with the feeling, this will guide every decision that follows.
- Layer the materials. Look for contrast in finishes to add visual depth.
- Focus on the ceiling and lighting. A bold ceiling treatment can make a space feel intentional and architecturally interesting. Pair it with statement lighting to create an atmosphere.
- Prioritize storage. Built-ins that feel furniture grade and beautifully integrated. Tailor the layout to your storage needs.
- Use tone-on-tone neutrals. It’s all about tone, texture, and contrast within a neutral palette. Stick to a few thoughtful finishes and repeat them to create cohesion.
Tell us about your concept for the aspire Showhouse – what inspired your approach to the room?
RS: The design inspiration for this luxury pantry draws from classic European millwork traditions, blending timeless craftsmanship with refined modern touches. One key element for the inspiration was the elegant two-tone cabinetry. The light oak upper cabinets contrast beautifully with the deep, rich lower cabinets, evoking the sophistication of a historic European kitchen. The metal inserts for the cabinet doors were inspired by traditional scullery details, adding texture and visual interest while referencing old-world charm. And reminiscent of classic European interiors where every surface is considered, we went with the ceiling detail, drawing your eye upward, adding drama and a sense of enclosure.
While The Art of the Home is still in progress, this past project by RS Design Management strikes a similar chord.
Even without seeing the final room yet, what detail or element are you most looking forward to bringing to life?
RS: We look forward to experiencing the craftsmanship, the tactile beauty of the materials, and the quiet luxury of a space designed to delight both in everyday use and in every lasting detail. As we approach the completion of this luxury pantry, we are most excited to see how the thoughtfully curated details come together in person — creating now just a functional space, but an immersive experience.
The interplay of the warm natural wood with the deep, rich lower cabinetry promises a timeless elegance, while the refined stone countertops will introduce a cool, sophisticated balance. We are eager to see how the decorative mesh grilles add subtle layers of texture catching the light and bringing dimension and old-world charm to the millwork.
Perhaps most exciting is how all these elements — the tailored cabinetry, the striking ceiling detail, the elegant lighting, and the rich materials, will harmonize to transform this pantry into a beautifully crafted jewel box within the home.
How would you describe your room in three words?
RS: Elegant, tailored and timeless. This space exudes elegance through its refined material choices and thoughtful details. Every element feels intentionally crafted and precisely fitted. The cabinetry is not just storage; it’s custom-tailored to the architecture of the space. The design draws from classic influences and the intention of choosing elements that have enduring appeal. The decorative details ensure that the pantry will age gracefully. It’s a space that feels rooted in history yet entirely fresh and relevant for today and the future.
Purchase tickets to tour The Art of the Home here.
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