Breaking New Ground, a six-episode Max Original, shares a story of hope, resilience, and beauty in Robert Hartwell’s journey. On Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S., he purchased the historic Russell family mansion and began to reshape a residence with a complicated history into a vibrant and luxurious space full of love. Hartwell considers this “a renovation story 200 years in the making.”

Hartwell appointed Courtney McLeod, an award-winning New York City-based designer, to transform the interiors while honoring the past. “Robert’s home is so special and unique,” said McLeod. “The idea [of this project was] to respect this history and turn it into something colorful and filled with joy.”

This home holds significant meaning for Hartwell and African American history. MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile is honored to spotlight Courtney McLeod’s kitchen, parlor, and dining room redesign.

Q+A with Courtney McLeod

Q. The home you designed holds significant meaning for both Black American history, Robert, and his family, going beyond traditional interior design. Can you walk us through your experience redesigning a harmonious kitchen, parlor, and dining room?

A. “It was important to me to create a design that fits with a modern lifestyle and the homeowner's bold style while respecting the history of the home. The parlor and dining room are the most formal rooms in the house, so I leaned into more traditional design elements for these spaces, made modern by incorporating a bold color palette. The kitchen is a large space perfect for family gatherings. The mix of natural stone, unexpected wallpaper, and glamorous lighting create a unique space.”

Q. Where did you draw inspiration for the custom fireplace style?

A. “I selected the Grayhill fireplace model from MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile's transitional line as it blends traditional elements with a clean-lined design to create a harmonious and versatile appeal. Finding that balance was a key goal for the home's design overall, so the fireplace was perfect.”

Q. You chose Montclair Marble for this particular project. What led you to select this natural stone and its color?

A. “Montclair Marble exudes elegance and sophistication, making it the perfect choice for the grand dining room. It is a beautiful focal point in the room. I felt the luxurious appearance characterized by a creamy white background with delicate veins of gray and taupe would be a lovely partner to the warm wood tones of the custom furniture and bold yellow walls.”

Q. You sought an elevated design and fireplace for the dining room. Can you share how MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile helped bring your vision for the space to life?

A. “I worked closely with the incredible MATERIAL team to get all the details right. Once we selected the marble and model from the wide range of styles offered by MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile, the team guided us through the specifications. Having recently worked with them on custom stone work in my own home, I knew we were in great hands, and it was one of the easier moments for the design team!”

McLeod brought life into the room with the stunning bespoke fireplace surround. “The fireplace is an aesthetically pleasing and traditional moment that felt right for the home.” It is a timeless accent to the elegant dining table and rock crystal chandelier.

New episodes of Breaking New Ground will be available to stream on HBO Max.

To inquire about MATERIAL’s natural stone selection or bespoke services, schedule a virtual appointment online or contact us by phone to learn more about our showroom locations.