The Fashion Forward Office

The wallpaper was the spark and jumping-off point. Its bright color mix and large-scale florals brought instant energy. It felt playful and confident. Don’t be afraid to go bold!

It’s all about creating contrasts and pairing patterns that balance each other out. In this case, the roman shade plays nicely with the wallpaper because it has a small scale, which keeps things from feeling too busy.

Natural light is always a priority. It makes every task more pleasant, from Zoom calls to spreadsheets. But placing a desk just under the window doesn’t always cut it. Built-ins are my go-to for getting the most out of a small space. They combine workspace and storage beautifully – and yes, they’re always worth the expense and effort!

The client is a major color lover, so we selected this notice-me orange. The color, Benjamin Moore’s Rich Coral, done in a high-gloss finish, really gives the room a strong focal point. It kicks the design up a notch and offers a lot of personality.

For cohesiveness, I usually opt for the same white that is used throughout the rest of the apartment. That’s what I did here, with ceilings and trim in Benjamin Moore Soft Chamois, one of my favorites.

I love the way rich woods balance out saturated colors. Deep brown floors, like the ones here, add warmth and weight – they help ground the room without competing for attention.

To protect the desktop, we added custom glass to the tops of the built-ins. It prevents scratches, makes the surface more durable, and turns up the high-gloss feeling — a practical upgrade that also looks elevated.

Interview by Melinda Page