Designer Lisa Tharp transformed a Boston pied-à-terre into a luxurious retreat, merging the ethos of a luxury hotel with that of an upscale dinner club. Situated in a former university building now part of a National Historic Landmark District, the 1,400-square-foot apartment boasts 14-foot ceilings and a narrow layout. Despite these quirks, Tharp crafted a space for her suburban clients to enjoy for intimate date nights, family outings, and gatherings with friends, showcasing her strategic design vision.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Lisa Tharp
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Building Type: Former university building turned condominium
Design Theme: Luxury hotel meets swanky dinner club
Furniture Collection: Lisa Tharp Collection
With lofty white walls and modest builder-grade interiors, Tharp saw an opportunity for innovation. The tall, narrow spaces suggested unique challenges, which she met by incorporating sculptural furnishings adorned with jewel-toned, textured upholstery. This approach segmented the interior into intimate sitting areas that resonate with the luxurious yet cozy ambiance her clients desired. She embraced the high ceilings, especially in the living room, using curated art pieces to emulate a sumptuous gallery experience, infusing the space with elegance.
Tharp cleverly utilized natural lighting to guide the choice of color schemes throughout the apartment. Her prismatic approach begins in the living room, where the abundant natural light highlights cool tones and geometric furniture against the stark white walls. Moving through the apartment, Tharp deploys richer hues that mirror the soft shift of daylight. In the kitchen, vibrant fuchsia velvet stools contrast with creamy bronze cabinetry, creating a glamorous culinary space. The bedrooms conclude this color journey with rich ruby, rose quartz, and gilt accents, evoking warmth and intimacy.
Selling her vision to the clients initially required some persuasion. Tharp had to emphasize how these design choices would not only enhance their aesthetic surroundings but also improve their overall quality of life. The clients were convinced after understanding the thoughtfulness of her approach, once her design rationales were detailed. As a result, they now appreciate the enriched living environment, recognizing how each element contributes to a harmonious and enjoyable experience.
In the primary living space, Tharp aimed for an artistic sanctuary-like effect. The clients preferred minimal color, prompting Tharp to feature sophisticated furnishings like her own collection’s sofa and armoire, Euro-style vintage pieces, and bespoke art arrangements. The kitchen reflects more daring choices with handmade Venetian tiles glowing in evening light and bold fuchsia for the stools, indicative of Tharp’s dedication to fusing functionality with artistic expression.
Further enhancements continue in the dining nook, where a large mirror amplifies the natural light, offsetting spaces prone to dimness. Vintage and custom pieces bring character; hand-painted pillars add a bespoke touch. In the guest bedroom, thoughtful design accommodates high ceilings lacking in natural light through two-toned walls creating an intimate vibe. The main bedroom, envisioned as a restful haven, features stain-repellent silk and abaca wall coverings. With pieces from Tharp’s collection and artwork by Timothy Kadish, the room offers an opulent yet serene ambiance, culminating this sophisticated urban retreat.
