Builder-Grade to Bespoke
A brand new high-rise condo receives a dose of heritage
A BLANK SLATE
The appeal of buying a new build? No surprise electrical issues, lead paint, or mystery rooms hidden behind mirrors (you guys saw that, right?). The downside: stark white paint, dated track lighting, and generic finishes usually made with manufactured materials. This bachelor pad not only lacked personality, it also needed better storage for its limited footprint. We set out to enhance and optimize the space with color, custom millwork, and timeless materials that would age beautifully.
Thankfully, what the unit lacked in character is made up for in large windows, tons of natural light, and a spacious terrace perfect for indoor/outdoor entertaining. To better utilize the available space, we ditched the TV set-up (our client doesn’t watch TV — goals!) and replaced it with a built-in bench seat and bookshelves. A small closet in the entry was expanded to house utilities, as well as coats and other bulky items.
THE SOFT SHELL
We banished the basic by making simple architectural changes whenever possible. Cased entries were rounded out to create Old-World-esque arches, decorative moulding surrounds the perimeter of the main living space, and a cushioned built-in banquette creates a cozy nook for morning tea or small dinner parties.
turn on the charm
Furnishings and accessories were thoughtfully chosen to add depth and a sense of heritage to the new space. Light fixtures in unlacquered brass and soft linen shades, a vintage rug and coffee table, and upholstered seating in jewel tones and nubby wools create a comfortable sanctuary. Dimensional neutrals on the walls and millwork keep the vibe uncluttered yet cozy.
Oatmeal-hued window treatments help filter light from the massive windows without blocking off the space. Accent lighting — and lots of it — maintains the mod (see: our manifesto against overhead lighting).
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER
We don’t know what part of this open plan living/dining space is our favorite — the vintage-inspired pendants over the island, the color of the cabinetry, the textures and shades of the upholstery, or the fact that it all just flows perfectly. In the dining nook, an heirloom folding chair from the client’s Turkish ancestors plays nicely with the sleek marble of the pedestal table. Zellige tiles on the backsplash and a plaster range hood contribute to the feeling of a time-honored space that speaks to the owner’s background.
Bar seating in the kitchen, banquette seating between the kitchen and living spaces, and the formal living room seating mean there is never a shortage of spaces to gather.
In the living room, a deep ocean blue covers the sofa, while a pop of citrine velvet flanks the bench via two bolster pillows. From the countertop stone to the wool area rug, natural materials imbue warmth in every corner. Nature-inspired tones engage the outdoors, creating a seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining experience. Now, our client lives happily amongst the conveniences of a new build without missing out on the whimsy of a building with history.
