A Tale of 2 Condos: Emphasizing Form, Function and Innovation in Design

 

It’s not every day that we get asked to work with two completely different clients with the same design footprint. But that was precisely the case when two new residents of Back Bay’s prestigious The Claredon property needed our help to design their 1,500 sq. ft. urban space just one floor apart. Our Tale of 2 Condos is a great example of how form and function can mean very different things to different clients. The result is features more in tune with their lifestyles and emotions connected to a sense of place.

Our Empty Nesters Fly to Downtown Condo project prioritized form by establishing a refined yet hip feel to the existing space. This goal was achieved by incorporating sophisticated finishes and furnishings rich in color and textures. The design needed to imbue elegance while living harmoniously with its breathtaking city views. We also designed custom elements to meet the client’s functional needs. 

Comparatively, our Throwing Boston a Curve project started with a complete gut renovation to create a haven for our client that felt luxurious yet comfortable. We used luxe materials and finishes to create a chic and serene atmosphere. Leaning heavily on architectural details, both form and function were equal priorities. 

With form, function, and innovation at the forefront of the design for these two Boston homes, we ensured each had its unique personality through the design and fabrication of custom elements that helped with flow and purpose. Our approach was to use customization to help maximize the footprint and add much-needed functionality for city living.

Both clients took two different approaches to fulfill their functional needs throughout the home. We’ll spotlight three key areas that allowed them to make their place feel unique and personal to their needs and style.

 
 

THE PERFECT WELCOME

It is fascinating to look back and see how two entryways can present two different approaches to original and functional modern design. Of course, determining how to make the best use of a small space has its challenges! In our Empty Nesters project, we looked to maximize the space by designing a small floating console in a bold blue hue for necessities like keys and mail. In the Throwing Boston a Curve’s entryway, carefully curated artwork was paired with a storage console that was both sleek and contemporary.

 

ENTERTAINING VS. SERENITY

The central wall space in the living room was a valuable urban dwelling that could be tailored to each client’s specific needs. Our Empty Nesters were ready to entertain, so we created a chic and highly functional built-in bar perfect for cocktail parties, nightcaps, displays, and much-needed storage. At the other end of the lifestyle spectrum, our Throwing Boston a Curve client embraced the need for calm with the cozy combination of a carefully designed fireplace and television. Both approaches created a stunning design focal point. 

Another custom feature of the Empty Nesters project that we mentioned in our last Journal was an incredible sliding panel wall that was a fun, chic way to conceal their television. 

 

PRIMARY BEDROOM PERSONALITY

The primary bedroom is another space that took on very different design styles. When designing our Empty Nesters' primary bedroom, we worked to incorporate luxe finishes, rich velvet headboard, and bold, edgy artwork to complement their need for a more sophisticated lifestyle. Serene and soothing are the best ways to describe the design of our Throwing Boston, a Curve primary bedroom space. We wanted this to be a personal retreat for our client to return to after a stressful day. We combined a neutral and very tranquil palette with luxuriously soft textures to meet this desire. These details helped to shape interest and balance with its urban surroundings.

 
 
 

And that’s our Tale of 2 Condos. We hope this helps you see how form, function, and innovation can inspire different designs.

Interested in working with us? Receive our Introduction Brochure to get started today!

Live well,

Reider + Co Team

 
 
 
 

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