Nestled within the iconic architecture of Bellaire Tower in San Francisco’s enchanting Russian Hill neighborhood, lies a one-bedroom apartment that embodies the allure of historic charm and contemporary design innovation. Designer Caitlin Jones Ghajar embraced the challenge of maximizing the compact space, rivalling any constraints with her inventive and vibrant design. This dwelling is a testament to the transformative potential of exploring bold aesthetics and thoughtful layouts, encapsulating the spirit of “accidentally Wes Anderson” with a blend of vintage charm and creative functionality.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Caitlin Jones Ghajar
Location: San Francisco, California
Building: Bellaire Tower
The apartment, affectionately known as the Superman building, serves as a pied-à-terre for a couple who desired not just a living space, but an experience. Jones Ghajar’s creative genius shines through in her approach, especially with the ingenious placement of a Murphy bed in the dining room, a novel concept even for the seasoned designer. By concealing the bed behind custom paneling, she seamlessly incorporated sleeping accommodations for the couple’s four grown sons, ensuring the apartment serves both familial and aesthetic needs without compromising on style.
Drawing on a kaleidoscope of colors and vintage furnishings, Jones Ghajar crafted an interior that feels like a nostalgic yet lively exploration through various eras. The living room boasts a vibrant aesthetic harmony, where vintage pieces are revitalized with new fabrics, such as the cobalt blue velvet covering on a George Smith sofa. The designer’s expertise in curating lighting is evident, with fixtures from The Urban Electric Co. functioning as eye-catching jewelry that enhances the room’s ambience.
In the kitchen, high-gloss finishes and a palette of opulent emerald green create the intimate allure of a deluxe hotel bar. This setting is not just about culinary utility but the artful experience of enjoying tea in the afternoon and cocktails in the evening. The design respects the building’s Art Deco heritage, with motifs reflecting this architectural marvel, ensuring that even the smallest details harmonize with the apartment’s broader historical narrative.
Jones Ghajar’s masterful manipulation of color is further displayed in the bedroom, where hand-painted Gracie wallpaper and distinctive trim create an awe-inspiring visual impact. The design captures and enhances the vistas beyond, including views of the Golden Gate Bridge, with a delicate balance of blue hues that echo the natural landscape. Her attention to meticulous detail ensures the complex wallpaper installation flawlessly complements the room’s existing architecture.
In the bathroom, the designer confronted the challenge of preserving its original tile while modernizing the space. By integrating a surprising lilac hue on the walls and ceiling, she offered a refreshing contrast to the existing green elements. This strategic color choice ensured continuity with themes throughout the apartment, providing a cohesive aesthetic experience. Caitlin Jones Ghajar, respected for her design prowess, operates Caitlin Jones Design from studios in Marin, California, and Seattle, Washington, and has been transforming spaces since 1999, evident in this project’s vibrant and daring execution.
