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This Interior Designer's Own Apartment is Elegant and Luxurious — Yet Surprisingly "Life-Proof" Too
Interior designer Nicholas Kaiko has crafted an apartment that embodies both luxury and practicality, challenging the common perception that stylish homes are often impractical. His own residence serves as a testament to his design ethos, blending sophisticated aesthetics with functional considerations, particularly for a household that includes a miniature schnauzer with a penchant for digging. Kaiko's design philosophy prioritizes a deep appreciation for textiles, carefully selecting fabrics that not only offer visual appeal but also possess durability to withstand daily life.
The apartment, an award-winning collaboration from BKH & SJB, provided a robust framework for Kaiko's personal design manifesto. The existing layout was well-considered, effectively separating private areas to the East from communal spaces like the kitchen, living, and dining areas to the West. This spatial arrangement allowed for seamless integration between indoor and a large outdoor terrace, creating an ideal environment for both living and entertaining. Rather than undertaking major renovations, Kaiko focused on enhancing the existing quality finishes through strategic application of color and material mixes, demonstrating the lasting value of good initial architectural design.
A key element in Kaiko's design is his innovative use of color. He employs a clean, modern, and surprisingly minimalist approach, even with bolder palettes. Color blocking is a significant theme in his work, both professionally and within his home, which is a curated collection of objects acquired through travel and specially chosen new pieces. The color scheme for the open-plan living room and kitchen was inspired by an oversized artwork by Australian contemporary artist Andy Harwood, featuring rich cobalt and magenta. These colors are echoed throughout the space in elements such as the burgundy chenille fabric of the sofa and the Calacatta Viola marble coffee table, with cobalt used sparingly to denote luxury. The artwork functions as an anchor, providing a backdrop that enhances the deep tones of the furniture and accessories, adding depth and dimension.
Despite the luxurious appearance, practicality was a paramount consideration due to the presence of Harvey, Kaiko's miniature schnauzer. The luxurious feel is achieved through a careful selection and blending of materials, colors, and design elements, with a deliberate mix of textiles including velvet, chenille, silk-like fabrics, and felt. To ensure durability, especially given Harvey's habit of digging, Kaiko chose upholstery fabrics with high polyester content, low viscose, and high rub counts. This material selection allows the furniture to withstand pet activities without compromising style or comfort, creating a home where caution around furnishings is unnecessary.
The apartment's large, comfortable living room sofa is a custom version of the Miles sofa from Arthur G, designed in two pieces to facilitate easy transportation in an apartment setting. The kitchen, while retaining its original layout, received a modern refresh by shifting to a black color palette and removing handles, resulting in a sleeker, contemporary look. The bathroom maintains its original character through existing tiles, which were in excellent condition, and was updated with new fixtures, lighting, and accessories. The green and brown color scheme in the bathroom creates a warm, earthy, and unique oasis, showcasing Kaiko's ability to embrace existing elements while infusing fresh design. This apartment exemplifies how an interior designer can create a space that is both elegantly luxurious and genuinely life-proof.
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