city living residential

Client’s dreams of Parisian boho chic achieved in this New York loft

• Eric McClelland May 22, 2021
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Restrictions abounded in this New York renovation project after the client purchased a 3,100 square foot loft in Soho, New York. With a move-in date four months away, strict condo rules and the New York Building Codes dictating that the project was ‘Decoration’ not a renovation, this left no time to apply for permits.

Interior Designer: Eric McClelland, ARIDO

Design Firm: Fleur De Lis Interior Design

Photographer: Scott Morris

It did allow minor changes to electrical, plumbing fixture updates, cabinetry updates, and painting. After agreeing on a clear budget with the client, the design team created concept plans, furniture and lighting layouts, and set to work on the client’s vision of a melange of Parisian bohemian chic, striking the balance between traditional and modern.

The client wanted the main areas to accommodate large catered events, and a clear division of public and private space, as well as a home office space, and provisions for their extensive artwork and antique book collections.

Since major structural changes were impossible, the design team created millwork elements in whitewashed black oak to give the loft an old-world atmosphere. A panelled fireplace complete with cornice becomes a focal point for the entertaining space, while the millwork in the kitchen highlights the 15-foot ceilings. A third millwork element, replete with a library ladder for the client’s antique book collections, was placed adjacent to a newly created den. Lacquered millwork in Bermuda blue gives the space a completely new look, while a custom teal velvet sectional, antique Murano chandelier and antique Parisian rug complete the space.

The kitchen is an elegant prep space, with a giant slab of marble creating an eye-catching island. Overhead, vintage glass lanterns enhance the client’s desired bistro atmosphere.

A cooler, subtler palette, with a mixture of old and new elements, continue the boho feel in the bedroom. Updated with new lighting, new vanity, vintage chrome shelving and hand dyed fabric for roman blinds, the master bathroom extends the lush atmosphere.

After four months, the client was left with a sophisticated space that alludes to the old modern charm of a Parisian loft, with all the convenience of a modern New York condo.