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Drawing on the relationships of owners in Los Angeles, designer Ashley Meisel brought a soaring but relaxed aesthetic to this new building for this four-story Italian market.
California oasis dining room. Photo by Jason Varney
For Center City-based interior designer Ashley Meisel, transforming a new four-story building in South Philly into an oasis in California harkens back to a few common threads: a lighter palette and an emphasis on luxuriously textured trim pieces and fabrics rather than natural materials. color and pattern. These items have been reserved for the owners’ art collection. “They have a great outlook,” says Maizel of the young professional couple, one of whom lived in Los Angeles and wanted to relive Philly’s West Coast vibes. “There is a great deal of color in the art, which makes the furniture so much calmer.” Nowhere is this more visible than in the living room, where a simple mix of neutral furnishings balance a bold piece by Anton Henning Design.
The Golden State aesthetic flows from every space in the 4,800-square-foot home, which has an open floor plan—a boon for the couple, who love to entertain. In the dining area, both coarse and refined materials give an organic feel. Custom matte manuscript table with cane ottoman chairs, wood console and brass and glass bar cart. “The juxtaposition of the materials makes it feel very rich,” Meisel notes.
An elevator ascends to the rooftop, reflecting the seamless interior experience with the outdoor kitchen and lounges. And the views of the city center rival any in California.
Living room
Domino the Dalmatian enjoys the living room. Photo by Jason Varney
A molded plaster table adds a soft sculptural element.
entrance
The entrance that sets the mood in California. Photo by Jason Varney
The space is just off the street and sets the mood for the rest of the interiors.
den
The den has a relaxed aesthetic. Photo by Jason Varney
This TV hangout features artwork by Donald Baechler on the walls and a large suede ottoman chosen for its durability—the couple wanted to put their feet up and let Domino wrap them.
dining room
California style oasis dining room. Photo by Jason Varney
The couple wanted the table to seat at least eight. The chairs are a modern interpretation of 1950s design by Pierre Jeanneret.
“Our focus was on texture and materiality,” Mizell says. “In the dining room, the only thing really colorful is the artwork. Everything else is just high contrast.”
published As “California Dreamin” in the January 2022 issue of Philadelphia magazine.