As the owner and lead designer of River Brook Design & Construction, Leigh Misso has designed countless spaces for kids – and pets – that prove elevated design and family life can coexist. With three young children and a dog of her own, her personal life directly informs her professional one — every design decision filtered through the lens of a mother who knows exactly what a family really needs from a home.
"I understand firsthand that a home has to work for real life — it needs to handle muddy paws, toys, homework, and all the beautiful chaos that comes with raising a family. At the same time, I never wanted to sacrifice good design in my own home, and that’s the approach I bring to every project."
That thinking shows up in every material decision River Brook makes. Misso specifies natural stone that develops character, hardwood floors with forgiving finishes, unlacquered brass that develops character rather than showing every fingerprint, performance fabrics that feel luxurious but are incredibly durable, and washable rugs that survive real life. Vintage and antique pieces earn a particular place in her process. “They already have a story and patina — you don’t have to worry about them being perfect."
Built-in storage is another non-negotiable. Mudrooms with cubbies, hidden toy storage, window seats with drawers — these aren’t afterthoughts at River Brook, they’re part of the design intent from day one. “Thoughtful storage solutions help keep clutter contained and make it easier for kids to participate in tidying up. It keeps the home feeling calm and organized, even during busy seasons."
When it comes to children’s rooms, Misso resists themed design entirely. She involves her children in the process — letting them weigh in on color, fabrics, a few special pieces — but keeps the design decisions firmly in her own hands. "My goal is to create a room they’ll love today, but that will also grow with them over time. Rather than designing around a short-lived theme, we create a timeless design and let a kid’s personality come through in artwork, books, bedding, and accessories that are easy to change as their interests evolve.”
She’s equally clear about how children should relate to beautiful spaces. “Our home is meant to be lived in, and I never want them to feel like they’re walking through a museum. Of course, we teach respect for our home and the things in it — but we also believe furniture is meant to be sat on, tables are meant to gather around, and a home should be filled with laughter and life.” Some of her most treasured pieces are antiques — a rocking horse, a doll carriage — woven into daily life rather than set apart from it. “Those are the pieces I hope my children will remember one day, not because they were off-limits, but because they were woven into everyday life."
Across the four projects featured here, certain client requests surface consistently. Large kitchens that truly function as the heart of the home. Sculleries and walk-in pantries that keep everyday clutter out of sight. Flexible spaces that evolve as children grow. Open sightlines so parents can keep an eye on kids while cooking or working. And one request making a quiet comeback: the dedicated dining room. “Families are realizing there’s something special about having a space intentionally designed for gathering, hosting friends, celebrating holidays, and lingering around the table together.”
Nowhere is River Brook’s approach more visible than in its utility spaces. Rather than treating mudrooms as afterthoughts, Misso gives them the same creative investment as any formal room. “The mudroom is one of the hardest-working spaces in our home, so I wanted it to feel joyful instead of purely utilitarian. I love the idea that practical spaces can still surprise you — those are often the spaces where the most memories are made.”
Living spaces for family pets receive the same thoughtful consideration. A custom dog station — black stone, brass pot filler, built-in bowls beneath an arched niche — is perhaps the clearest expression of what River Brook does best: a solution so considered it stops looking like a solution and starts looking like a design decision.
"We design homes to be lived in, not looked at. When every detail is intentional, a home can feel elevated yet comfortable enough for little feet, homework at the island, and everyday life. To me, that’s where great design really succeeds."
I love the idea that practical spaces can still surprise you — those are often the spaces where the most memories are made.