My firm recently designed an exquisite 1907 Capitol Hill row house. The whole idea was to use the specific features of the row house to give both a modern and comfortable new look to this traditional type of DC construction. Hybridization of multiple styles is part of my signature approach, and this design project combines a diverse range of influences.

The starting point for the kitchen was to create a luxury version of the iconic 1950’s American diner. We used black-and-white marble flooring and a thick and heavily veined black pearl marble to shape the whole area. I wanted to give a sensation of opulence and generosity, while referencing the period black/white tile diner motif. The smoky amethyst hue on the walls and custom cabinets was also a way to make reference to those iconic diners.

One of the main ailments in these DC row houses is the shortage of light. We decided to enlarged the opening between the kitchen and living/dining to both create a conversation between the spaces as well as lighten them. The Mies Van Der Rohe dining chairs participate in that conversation as does the brass and lucite dining table to create a strong mid-century reference.

The color palette plays a major role in the design. We wanted the ceiling and upper walls in pale blue to lighten the space and bring a bright sky inside. The green shade and the gold line add richness and sophistication. The 1960’s sofa set was reupholstered in a glamourous blue velvet and the pattern of the rug refers to the work of the mid-century Italian architect Gio Ponti. Over the sofa, original prints by Pierro Fornasetti set the mood further.

In the master bedroom, we envisioned a soft and delicate atmosphere inspired by a 1930’s glamorous hollywood boudoir. It features silver-leaf Art Deco nightstands and silk curtains in a botanical print. Tones go from pale blue to gray. On the upper half of the wall and over the bed, dark-blue lines mimic slim moldings.

The master bath has large-format printed porcelain to give the impression of being in a natural marble space and offers a serene atmosphere to relax in. romainbaty.com