Modern Elegance + Whimsy
Sometimes, even professionals in the design and building industries need assistance to bring their visions to life. This client, an executive at a large, well-known general contracting firm, had moved from a very traditional home and wanted a more modern look and feel in her new Queen Anne space. After working with an architect to design and build the home, she began to furnish it on her own—but then got stuck.
While the basic pieces were in place, the client was having trouble pulling it all together while retaining a contemporary look. My role was to fill in the gaps and add finishing touches in the master, dining area, and on the deck to help create a fun, casual vibe that blends personality with elegance.
Design
For the dining area, we added a unique art installation on one wall, providing visual interest on its own and also creating unique shadows at different times of day. The muted tones of those elements are offset by a bright splash of green from the drapes.
The choices she initially made for her bedrooms left them feeling largely bare and devoid of personality; in the master, a textured wall treatment now offers an upscale feel, while a whimsical light fixture adds an element of fun without feeling forced. A more colorful treatment adorns one wall in the second bedroom, which incorporates a bright yellow chair for a vibrant feel.
Finally, on the deck we added tables and planters to the existing seating, making the area feel more complete and ready for entertaining.
Ultimately, it’s all still minimal and modern—yet with many different layers and textures, the space feels clean and inviting, perfectly aligned with the home’s architecture and the style of its owners.
Architect: Zeke Busch
