To create a west coast home for a couple that has a wonderful collection of Asian artifacts was the mandate of this renovation. When found, the 2,400 square foot penthouse was desperately in need of updating; in the 15 years since it was built nothing had been done. The floor plan was largely unchanged by the renovation; however, large expanses of drywall were removed to open up the plan.
Ledingham's design team worked around the existing pipes and ducts, designing custom millwork to disguise them. There were virtually no interior walls in the public areas; all room delineation was done with millwork and architectural devices. The living room was raised a step, defining it from the dining area and other spaces, and incorporating a built-in desk for the den.
The palette of dark wenge millwork and panelling, limestone, mosaic tiles and an ebony-stained original oak floor was chosen as a rich backdrop for the owners' collection. Further enhancing the collection, the custom furniture was upholstered with hand-woven fabrics and accented with raw silk. Grass shades filter the sunlight, creating a warm dappled lighting effect. Even the terrace was re-landscaped, transforming the existing planters into Japanese gardens.