“No black.” That was the only firm directive two Ohio homeowners gave Meg Carson and Chloe Harlan when they charged the Sarasota-based interior designers with the look of their vacation penthouse in Longboat Key. The two Emcy Interior Design pros delivered with a cozy dose of modernism that feels both welcoming and elegant. Here, they reveal their approach.
What was your main inspiration for the design of this residence?
Meg Carson: The inspiration came from the clients’ mid-century modern home in Ohio, which is characterized by light tones and curvilinear elements.
These clients didn’t want anything too dark in their home, as they made clear with their “no black” rule. Were you concerned about how you were going to create contrast?
Chloe Harlan: With the color black out of the equation, we knew we would have to impart contrast and dimension with a layering of textures, so we relied on materials like bouclé upholstery, velvets, and bold natural marbles.
What are some examples of that approach?
CH: In the finish materials. For instance, we used reeded cabinet fronts on the walk-up bar, pinnacle marble tile on the family room fireplace, and various wallcoverings that range from leather to heavy grass cloths.
The interior is very neutral but not at all cold. How did you achieve that?
MC: The warm, inviting atmosphere despite the neutral palette also has to do with the various layered textures and different materials. The use of stained wood throughout the penthouse was particularly important for this reason. Wood added the depth and warmth that contribute to the soft, contemporary feel of the residence.
What type of flooring was used throughout the apartment?
MC: There’s a sophisticated mix of Calacatta Gold marble and white oak European engineered hardwood in the public spaces, and mosaic marble tile in each of the bathrooms.
What was the overall approach to furnishings?
MC: Our primary focus was on livable yet alluring pieces, as form will always follow function. All in all, soft, beautiful, and functional was the direction we went in and the outcome we achieved.
The residence has a significant art collection on display. Were you involved in the art selection at all?
CH: Yes. The homeowners had a few existing pieces, but we also tapped artists from Nashville to New York City to create custom artworks. As our foundation was neutral, it was important to compliment the space with these pops of color.
What was the most challenging aspect of this project?
MC: You would think it was craning the marble slabs or custom sectionals into the penthouse through the balcony, but we didn’t have a single issue with that due to our amazing project manager. The biggest challenge was planning our final furnishings installation to coordinate with the homeowners’ first stay and ensure all was completed for that. It required extensive communication, but we succeeded.
What was the homeowners’ reaction when you revealed the project?
MC: They were tear-filled with awe. We walked the space inch by inch and finished with a celebratory glass of champagne at the Longboat Key Club House. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.
Story Credits:
Text by Christopher Day
Interiors Photography by Laura Henry
Designers’ Photo courtesy of Emcy Interior Design
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