This Westchester home is filled with vintage finds and eclectic style.

Fairy tale houses are easy to find in storybooks—less so in real life. But some houses are out of the pages of a book. Case in point? Stephanie Perez O’Boyle’s quirky Westchester house.

Set amid the town’s lush farming villages, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers, the designer’s apartment is filled with whimsical details: floral tableware inspired by a Mad Hatter tea party; soft blooms that cascade down the house like they’re from Casa Madrigal; and baskets that float over the couch as if enchanted by the Fairy Godmother herself.

Still, the home is rooted in Perez O’Boyle’s reality. Her style is a mix of her grandparents’ cozy home in Colombia, her travels through the European countryside, and practical details that work for her family—which includes a toddler and a puppy.

Next, founder Stephanie Perez Studio reveals the secrets behind her magical home, from her favorite vintage artwork (100 years old!) to the custom island she created with her father-in-law, and more.

How did you first discover your space? What was it about it that attracted you?

My husband and I happened to pass by the apartment during an open house. We decided to stop in — our first impression was that there was a lot of work to be done. But as an interior designer and with a father-in-law who is a carpenter, the work didn’t faze us.

This place had so much potential with huge windows letting in incredible natural light, and it was in a great location near the water. We knew we could make it a cozy starter home for our growing family.

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Describe the surrounding area – does your home blend in or stand out?

This is a condo but at first glance it looks unassuming, as it is nestled among beautiful residential homes. It blends naturally into the neighborhood with its traditional white vinyl siding, arched windows and juliette balconies or small terraces for all residents.

The condo landscapers also did a wonderful job. There are cherry and white blossom trees, dogwoods, hydrangea bushes, tulips, and other plants thoughtfully scattered throughout the entire property.

We also have a giant white flowering tree right outside our dining room window, taller than my son’s bedroom on the second floor. It’s always a beautiful time when it blooms.

How would you describe your home decor?

My style is vibrant, personal and eclectic. I strive for a warm, comfortable feeling when living with all my choices. I believe that the foundation of great design is creating lasting spaces filled with memories and pieces that truly mean something to you.

There are so many items displayed throughout my kitchen—from the collection of cookbooks, antique mugs, and serving bowls on the coffee table to the wall-mounted plates in the dining area, which are antique Fajalauza pottery from Granada, Spain and are my favorite collectible.

Who or what is your biggest design inspiration?

I am constantly inspired by the past. Designers I admire include Billy Baldwin, Nancy Lancaster, Josef Frank and Jean Royere. Each of them speaks to a different aspect of my style, whether it is creating livable spaces, timeless designs, eclectic pieces or quirky moments.

How does heritage influence your style?

My parents came to New York in the late 80s and I grew up visiting Colombia every year. My grandparents’ house is still my favorite place to this day.

It is a Spanish-style house with a terracotta roof, plaster walls, and a central courtyard exposed to the elements. The interior is simple and cozy, and my grandmother always kept the entire house filled with greenery, fresh flowers, and warm food.

What other cultures do you draw design ideas from?

I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot. I’ve visited over 20 countries to date—with an even longer list of places to visit. I take notes from the interiors of the English and French countryside in general. But I love collecting vintage tableware and handmade ceramics from places like Mexico, Romania, and Hungary.

I am also drawn to the ancient beauty of Portugal and Spain, especially their pottery, tiles and antiques. Finally, I love the colorful and timeless carpets and textiles from India.

What are the best finds in your home?

I have too much! Our dining table is a 19th century antique English pine farm table that I purchased from The Parsons Nose Antiques. I left it in its original condition with an unwaxed tabletop and it will continue to rust over time.

The collection of Swedish herbaceous plants in the entryway is nearly 100 years old and comes from Studio Welby in London, along with custom handmade thread spools. The hand-painted floral table lamp on the bamboo table in the entryway is an antique from Portugal—a country I visited with my family and which has great significance to us.

But I think the most special piece is the kitchen island, which I designed and custom-made by my father-in-law. He has been a carpenter for over 40 years and owns his own business, William Thomas Woodworking. My husband and I are so happy that he left us this wonderful heirloom that serves as the foundation for the entire space.

Do you have a favorite design feature or room?

The antique baskets hanging over the bench in my dining nook are a favorite. They are part of a collection I’ve accumulated over time from traveling and visiting antique stores. I’m inspired by Bunny Mellon, who effortlessly incorporates baskets into all of her spaces to add a layer of warmth and texture.

Where do you spend the most time in your home and what do you usually do there?

My husband and I both love to cook, so we spend most of our time in the kitchen, while my son and dog play on the couch or under the dining table. The room has lots of natural light, and we have a patio right next to the kitchen, so we often go back and forth between the two spaces.

We also have an espresso machine that was given to us by close friends for our wedding. My favorite activity on a weekend morning is to make a cappuccino and play with my son while my husband makes pancakes.