After renovating a pre-war apartment, designer Monica Fried was left with a blank slate that had little architectural detail. But instead of keeping things cookie cutter, she made bold design choices to create a unique space reflecting the homeowners’ personalities. Here are three tips to help you achieve a similarly polished living space.
Tip 1: Hang striking artwork
When it comes to art, don’t play it safe. Neutral prints may be pleasing to the eye but can quickly become staid when featured on every wall. Instead, find art that truly speaks to you, including original works. In this apartment, the owner’s art collection is showcased prominently and hung such that pieces can be swapped out over time. Changing your art is a quick and easy way to transform the ambiance of a room.
Tip 2: Opt for a well-veined marble
Fried made bold design choices when it came to stone surfaces. From the fireplace mantel to the powder room sink, aggressively-veined marble ups the ante. This may be most apparent in the kitchen where Statuario Cerviole marble clads both the counters and backsplash. Consider the same approach for your next project to instantly create an elevated look.
Tip 3: Use color strategically
Fried used color in two ways–the first being pops of color throughout the main living spaces. A lacquered, teal desk stands in contrast to the living room’s relatively neutral furnishings, and the kitchen’s only bit of color is its mustard-yellow stools.
The second use of color is a monochrome bedroom inspired by London’s Gallery at Sketch. Subtle pink tones make a striking impact when used across multiple surfaces. You can apply a tone-on-tone approach to your own home to create a look that screams “high design.”
Images: Nicole Franzen
Interior Design: Monica Fried Design
