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3 Tips to Add a Designer’s Touch to Any Space

by Desiré Greene

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.

In the Rubells’ entry gallery works by (from left) Rudolf Stingel, Rashid Johnson, and Sayre Gomez are joined by a vintage Jens Risom bench and bold Eric Schmitt pendant lights.

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.

The kitchen showcases Statuario Cerviole marble in contrast with inky black cabinets. Mustard-yellow leather counter stools add a pop of color.
The powder room features ochre limed walls paired with Cipollino Fantastico marble

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.”

The famed London restaurant Gallery at Sketch inspired the pink walls, window coverings, and mohair bed of one bedroom.

Images: Nicole Franzen
Interior Design: Monica Fried Design

Filed Under: Home Decor & Design, Home for Dinner

About Desiré Greene

Desiré is a blogger, media strategist, and founder of Sukio—a media platform for interior design, lifestyle, and creative inspiration.

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Dee Greene Hill is a licensed REALTOR® serving Philadelphia and its surrounding areas.

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