40 DIGS.NET
| 8.20.2021
P R O F I L E | K A R A M A N N
ors where spaces are constantly being reinvented for modern
life," says Mann of the aesthetic. Throughout is the designer's
keen sense of discrimination. "I am always intentional about
contrast—in this case, the architecture was quite classic but
serene, so the furniture and décor had to offset that," she says.
"Larger furniture pieces were more modern and cleaner, while
condensing the more traditional pieces into smaller accents."
The result is an interior that offers a sophisticated, artful and
modern posture with a classically French feel. There is a
formality to the interiors, too; rooms are orderly and many, from
the high-functioning kitchen with marble countertops, custom
cabinetry and smart storage, to the handsome oak-paneled
music room with mid-century chairs and an art deco rug.
Mann flexes a thoughtful muscle for complementary aesthetics
throughout the home. In the dining room, for example, a glass
and steel buffet echo the detail of a pair of pendant lamps by
Rose Uniacke. On the wall in the same space a painting in
tones evoking a darkening storm adds ambience and a sense
of place. An 18th century mantel in the crisp-white living room,
meanwhile, bridges old and new, with the vintage cocktail table
and white linen sofas adding texture. Softly tinted plaster walls
and Belgian oak flooring are highlights of the material palette
and abundant glass panels with striking black frames offer the
new construction an industrial and architectural edge.
Everywhere the residence is something of a surprise. This is, of
course, characteristic Mann. "Inspiration is everywhere," says the
designer whose interior treatment of this space is a rather grand
case in point. "It's important to keep an open mind and allow
inspiration to flourish from expected and unexpected places."
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