Discover the Unique Interior Design of a Modern Home
In a stunning living room, the paneling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Schoolhouse White shifts elegantly to a creamy yellow, showcasing how paint color transforms based on its surroundings. Designer Rob Johansen added a layer of limewash and collaborated with an artist to create a hand-painted strié faux wood grain finish, providing rich depth and texture. However, the main attraction in this space is the exquisite Landscape Sofa, crafted by Nina Edwards Anker for Dune, which is custom upholstered in ultra-suede. Johansen remarks, “I was always drawn to that piece, even before this project. It’s sculptural and truly arresting upon entering the room.”
A Custom Dining Experience
The clients envisioned a live edge table as a focal point in their dining area. Rising to the challenge, Johansen designed a unique custom table with a live edge and elegant bowed legs, surrounded by Fernando Mendes dining chairs. Adding to the aesthetic appeal, a horizontal wall sculpture by John Wigmore completes the space.
Embracing Japanese Design Elements
The wife expressed a desire for her children to experience a traditional Japanese kitchen. “This was easier said than done,” Johansen admits. Yet, he was dedicated to honoring the spirit of her request. After consultation with experts in Japanese design, Johansen chose to use slow-growth pine, valued for its tight grain and buttery effect. He notes, “These pines grow slower, offering a consistent and warm appearance.”
Wabi-sabi principles guide the kitchen’s design, where the island features black-and-white-streaked marble that has been acid-sandblasted, producing a soft, tactile texture that creates a natural topography. “When you run your hands over it, there’s a lot of movement,” he explains. The kitchen floors also provide an enticing texture, as each plank is carefully hand-carved.
A Versatile Modular Foyer
Describing the foyer as a “living space,” Johansen created a modular environment that can be rearranged like a gallery. Collaborating with Paola Saracino Fendi, a senior advisor at Schwartzman, he crafted a foyer that defies the traditional notion of an entryway. “A conventional setup with a marble floor and center table felt too ordinary,” Johansen says. Instead, the foyer exhibits an organic simplicity that invites tranquility.
The Enigmatic House Design
Overall, the home possesses a captivating quietness—an effect that Johansen intentionally aimed for. "We could have designed a beautiful, upscale home typical of the industry," he reflects. "But I wanted it to feel haunting; when you walk in, you sense it’s unusual yet beautiful. It encourages thought while remaining inviting."
In crafting environments that blend aesthetic appeal with functional design, this project demonstrates the impactful choices available in modern home decor.
For more enchanting interior design ideas and insights, visit our blog ChatbiHouse. You’ll discover tips on everything from selecting the right sofa for your living room to the latest trends in smart home innovations. Explore now!
