Traditional, transitional or contemporary it's not always easy to classify a decor as one style or another. Often a balance of accents produces the most personal outcome.
This was the case for the kitchen, bathrooms and powder room in this apartment interior by designer Michael Habachy. You know your client will be looking for a one-off aesthetic when he's the proud owner of a limited-edition Wraith Rolls Royce with Swarovski crystals hand-sewn into the roof lining, says Habachy.
"He was moving from a traditional home but wanted this unit to have a more eclectic feel, but without being too modern. The four quite different decors in this unit have in common a celebration of drama and fine detail. In some cases, they also respond to specific tastes, as with the daughter's bathroom.
"The family kitchen is designed along bold, modern lines. However, I feel minimalist spaces today don't have to be stark instead a layering of elements or a particular material emphasis can create interest. Here, the distinctive and vibrant Macassar ebony veneer on the cabinet walls and island front is all cut from the same tree to ensure tonal consistency, although as it is a completely natural product, there are still variations. The relatively small wood strips are in bookmatched and sequenced veneer."
Most appliances are fully integrated and they are all positioned along one wall for a sleek, simple look. The Calacatta fretwork mosaic backsplash with its pale tones and understated Greek key pattern, provides a visual contrast to the exotic orange-and-black grained cabinetry.