urban edwardian with global flair
Built in 1904, this multi-level Edwardian was transformed into a multi-functional home for a dynamic family of four, with expansive areas for entertaining, playing, working, reposing and hosting guests. Fully renovated by David Armour Architecture before its purchase, the 4,500 Sq Ft home was truly a dream home "that checked off everything I was looking for in a house," according to the wife, after a long search for the perfect house in their neighborhood.
As the second collaboration together, Lotus Bleu started the design process with the clients by helping to determine which pieces to carry over into the design of the new home. Restored family heirlooms, a large wooden Ganesha frieze and a vintage wood and brass Indian door-turned-coffee table, both picked up through auction, added warmth and character to the living and family rooms, while the antique embroidered suzani's picked up in the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul set the color palette for the master suite, all contributing to the global flavor.
Reflective of the international couple, with roots in Africa and North America, and their world travels, the design aesthetic is richly eclectic. Turkish and Asian motifs play a prominent role throughout, especially in the textiles, art, rugs and objects. With their preference for a sophisticated but comfortable style, the furnishings are a mix of contemporary Italian, modern Danish and pieces from artisanal American workshops.
Enveloped in a soft gray grasscloth wallpaper, the main living room is layered with contrasting textures: from the lux gray mohair on the sofa to the linen drapery featuring a "Persian Garden" pattern, silver filigree pillows hand-block printed in India, and a plush Tibetan wool area rug, whose Moroccan motif was serendipitously featured on the couple's wedding invitation.
Upon the canvas of the renovated home, Lotus Bleu designed the color palette. Soft gray tones are carried throughout the first floor with shades of blue and pops of terra cotta and coral as accent colors. The continuous space of the level flows from the living room, to music room/study, to dining room, and finally to the family room and kitchen.
Moving up to the 2nd floor, blues and grays set the stage again. In the master suite, the vivid coral and light green hues of the antique suzani's from Central Asia are grounded by warm, taupe gray walls and a silver wool geometric rug. Crisp white printed linen window treatments in both the bedroom and bathroom feature botanical patterns, contrasted against the geometric marble tiles, creating a garden-like oasis and space for calm and respite.
