Nathan's condo was the consummate Bachelor Pad - a lot of clutter and seriously lacking in any definitive style. There were actually only a few pieces of furniture in this very large and airy loft overlooking Rowe's Wharf in Boston.
We began discussing his design goals - add color & character to the two baths, to his small eat-in kitchen and help him pick out furniture and accessories for his expansive yet empty living room. We started with the easy rooms-kitchen and baths! While trying to define his signature style by asking many questions and suggesting numerous adjectives, all to no avail, both Nathan and I were becoming frustrated.
Finally, a light bulb went off in my head: I asked Nathan if he would show me his neckties. Within moments, I was able to get a "feel" of Nathan's style and taste and begun my search for sample fabric swatches.
Together we picked out fabrics for his two baths: one was Southwestern in style and the other, which directly overlooked the wharf, was dressed in a nautical flavor. Shower curtains, window valances and sink skirts were custom made for both baths. Accessories completed each look.
For his small eat-in kitchen, both storage space and personality were scarce! I took my cue from the style of the kitchen cabinets. They were fairly traditional oak with raised panels and brass-toned hardware, so we opted to create a light country look. For starters, we created a little "closet" at the end of his counters where an unused 2' space existed. We mounted hanging hooks for brooms and small shelves for cleaning products. We draped this utilitarian knook with a custom made curtain that matched the custom-made window valance.
We then filled the area above his cabinets with a variety of whimsical objets d'art, such as candle lanterns, lighthouses, crocks and sprays of silk ivy. A new set of ceramic canisters in a country theme, along with a fresh crisp set of colorful linens and a matching area rug were the finishing touches.
For the living room, Nathan envisioned a more elegant look, yet did not want to compromise comfort. We sat down over a cup of coffee and poured through magazine clippings and design texts, giving Nathan a full spectrum of style choices. Did he want to carry through on his southwestern theme? Maybe more nautical? How about a room inspired by the look of the Orient? I, of course, knew from the moment I walked into the space how I would love to translate the design theme. But one of our trademarks is to stay absolutely true to the client's personality and wishes.
The more I showed Nathan, the more resolved he became in his choice. He was ready to do something dramatic!
We chose a butterscotch suede couch in a contemporary, 50's retro style with two side chairs; covered in multi-colored swirly designed fabric, in shades of burgundy, butterscotch and teal. To keep the look clean and uncluttered, we opted against fabric window treatments, and chose Hunter Douglas Silhouette fabric blinds instead. This type of blind allows full privacy, diffused light or can be fully raised for a clear view of the outside world.
Much to my delight, Nathan agreed to the bold stroke of additional drama on the walls. Because of the high ceilings and vast amount of natural light, we were able to do a faux treatment in varying shades of garnet, plum and burgundy. It was smashing!
Additional pieces included a multi-colored contemporary area rug, a glass coffee table and two unmatched side tables, one in black lacquer and the other in a faux tortoise shell finish. Eclectic to say the least! Nathan was ecstatic and immediately made plans for an Open House Soiree; his house finally felt like his home.