Sometimes I see a photo shoot of a house tour that I absolutely love. I may file away the images, but never return to them. This spread was the exact opposite and I’m still trying to figure why. I thumbed through the mag and then put it down. Then I came back to it. Then, I read the story. Then I went over it with a fine comb of what was speaking to me.
Let me try to break it down as well as I possibly can.
Good bones : Yes, as usual, the structure itself was loudest. An old candy factory turned loft and the designers actually honored this fact. The windows. The floor. And the awkward columns that actually became an asset by helping divide up the space.
Good natural light : Yes, I’m from and live in the Northwest.
Sexy windows : 1920s. Steel casing. Thin mullions. Need I say more?
It’s modern yet unpretentious : She actually specified no Saarinen tables. Awesomeness.
It’s modern, but not too obvious : Turkish Oushak Rug softening the space and lending an organic sensibility. Hey, that zigzag on the dining room chairs. Is it modern (and a bit trendy at the moment) or is it a nod to African mud cloth or Amazonian body painting?
The palette : Neutralized earth tones spells l-o-v-e. Browns, blacks, whites to grays. Nothing is overwhelming nor is the palette washed-out or boring. Contrasting prints and textures (can you say ultra-suede drapes) bring interest and cohesion.
Overall : Modern, organic, cohesive pallete with contrast in materials and stylings. Creative floor plan.
Critique : the kitchen. I didn't even bother with a photo.
