This is the stunning remodeling project of an ocean front 4 story condominium in Pine Knoll Shores, NC. When meeting with my clients to determine what they would like to see happen in this 30 year old condo they had purchased in foreclosure, I heard four specific desires: Drama, Sophistication, South Beach, Art Deco. That was really all I needed to give me a vision of what this worn space could be become. I think you will agree that this is is an extreme transformation!
Let's start at the beginning...The entry to the condominium was a long and narrow hallway with rough cedar siding on the ceiling and a dated tile floor. The space was much too small to bring in any furniture and it certainly did not evoke drama or sophistication. It was dated, dark and uninviting. I used the architectural problems to our advantage, however, and created an art gallery entryway!
Before: After:
We installed modern 12 x 24 porcelain tile on the floor and took out the rough lumber and put in a drywall ceiling which was painted white. The accent wall was painted cobalt blue, a color used throughout the condo to bring a cohesive feeling and to create drama. Artwork was selected from a collection of both canvas and framed and matted prints speaking to the coast, but in a modern and vibrant way.
The five flights of stairs inspired prints of spiral staircases in lighthouses and ships as well as the spirals of nautilus shells. Of course a Coral Atohl mirror hangs near the door for last minute inspections and to reflect the artwork on the opposite wall as well as refract the newly lit entry. We were also able to take some of the great underwater digital photographs that the home owners had taken and transfer them to canvas to incorporate into the art displayed throughout. Track lighting with cobalt blue glass globes washes light to accent the artwork and illuminate the space.
The carpeted stairs were taken out and replaced with oak treads which were dyed an indigo blue and the kicks were tiled in a cobalt and white glass mosaic tile with a Grecian Key pattern...very Art Deco. The stair became the most stunning feature of the whole condo as we removed the separating wall from the five flights and created a "floating" staircase complete with a custom handrail which I designed with an eye to the Art Deco motif.
Before: After:
As you will note in the photo below from the perspective of looking down into the living room/dining room area, the color palette continues as does the drama and sophistication. White porcelain tiles, cobalt blue accent wall framing the view of the ocean and beautiful furnishings complete the look.
The Art Deco theme is enhanced by the home owner's period console table that we were able to incorporate in the living room. An abstract print carries the coastal theme with a sailboat in marina in a subtle way. The white leather sofa with nickel nailhead trim has custom pillows done in varying shades to compliment artwork by Sally Anger depicting a mermaid.
This original art on canvas was the homeowner's as well and it served as the inspiration for the color palette throughout the condominium. The artwork is flanked by mosaic glass tile panels which are enhanced by beautiful chrome and crystal wall sconces to illuminate the art and to create a special focal point for this special piece. Two vintage slipper chairs were upholstered in a beautiful fabric and the chairs also feature nickel nailhead trim. Custom bolster pillows were fabricated in a pewter silk and trimmed with triple braid in black. The small art deco table in between the chairs is another period piece that belonged to the homeowners. The zebra striped area rug adds whimsy and just the right amount of sophistation to the living room.
The dining room table and chairs are sleek and comfortable and are grounded with a white on black circular rug. The chandelier with tear drop crystals and black pleated shade add sophistication and drama.
The kitchen was small and dated and the homeowners hated it. Unfortunately we were stuck with the footprint and could not expand the space, however, by putting some fabulous appointments by way of beautiful granite, ceramic and mosaic glass accent tiles and an unexpected light fixture, the kitchen is now a great place to enjoy.
Before: After: