How a once ‘hard-edged’ apartment was transformed into a ‘soft and playful’ home
When tasked with redesigning a penthouse apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Keren Richter, Co-Founder of interior design studio White Arrow, knew from the start she wanted to incorporate the tastes of the clients’ young children within the design. With its playful color palette, abstract art, and sculptural shapes, it’s a space that instantly uplifts and inspires.
Combining the whimsical decor trend with everyday functionality, White Arrow’s mission was to ensure the space spoke to the whole family. The 2300 square foot penthouse boasts four bedrooms, and each feels representative of its occupant, balancing whimsy and softness with refined sophistication.
Transforming a once clinical, industrial space into a serene and joyous family home, Keren said, ‘The clients have three young kids, and we considered them when designing a home for our clients. We updated the developer’s hard-edged and high contrast finishes into an environment that felt softer and playful.’
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
When asked what her favorite room in the house was, Keren said she loved the kitchen best. ‘I love the kitchen! We created custom cabinetry in a bleached maple alongside aluminum cast hardware by Australian designer Studio Henry Wilson and a refreshing green marble in Calacatta turquoise.’
There’s a real balance of color and texture, the luxurious green marble and playful powder pink contrast yet harmonize, uplifting and refreshing a sometimes clinical space with a dose of fun. Matching the backsplash, the marble kitchen island has been paired with a trio of abstract modern bar stools. ‘Playful stools by Jack Rabbit Studio and our client’s existing artwork really make a bold impression,’ explains Keren.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
Despite the room edging more towards a more minimalist kitchen, it still feels interesting and warm due to the pink kitchen cabinets, marble countertops, and use of playful decor.
When designing the space, White Arrow opted for built-in storage options that hide away clutter and mess. The clever color choice allows the space to still feel fun (despite it being on the sparser side), proving there’s no real need to incorporate lots of decor in the kitchen if your materials do all the talking. The powder pink not only frames the space and welcomes you in, but nods to the overall vibe of the home as a place of joy and lightheartedness.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
The top floor of the duplex was purposefully designed to contrast with the lower floors. The dining room is an example of this, with its sleek wood surfaces and mid-century furniture, it’s a lesson in warm yet pared-back design.
Abstract shapes adorn the space, from the statement dining table with a unique base to the abstract midcentury pendant, the room is minimally decorated, yet a feast for the eyes. Keren said, ‘We enjoyed experimenting with cooler tone finishes on the top floor – chrome, mirror, hand-blown glass, bleached maple, bold Calcutta turquoise marble, and cast aluminum hardware.’
The pink console, wavy candleholders, and angular light nod to the whimsical feel without taking the theme too far, perfectly balanced by the chic wood finishes.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
The living room is invitingly plush and soft. The large powder blue sofa is undoubtedly a statement that encourages you to sit and relax, as are the quilted modern armchairs that feel contemporary yet equally as family-friendly.
A lesson in fusing sophistication with comfort and practicality, the space feels artfully curated while still accessible for children. Like all good pastel room ideas, the color is evident without overwhelming. The colorful rug brings the perfect amount of playfulness that’s balanced by the softer pops of color and the sleek chrome coffee table.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
The described ‘softness of the lower floors’ is particularly evident in the master bedroom. The cloud-like wall mural sets the tone, giving the bedroom a sense of airiness and relaxation that’s so fitting for a sleep space.
Despite being a very pink bedroom, the rest of the decor is neutral, from the boucle bed frame to the warm-toned geometric rug; these sophisticated choices prevent the space from feeling overly saccharine. An extra layer of sophistication, the delicate chandelier is an intricate addition to balance out the bedroom’s softness.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
The boucle armchair paired beside the pink console brings another layer of softness that’s carefully balanced with the slickness of the furniture. The subtle gold accents and art bring a touch of luxury that makes the room feel retreat-like and high-end.
‘Throughout the home, the palette is refreshing and at other times, calming – filled with contemporary art and wallpaper, locally made design pieces, a mix of reflective ’70s Italian lighting, and furniture; they all work seamlessly alongside custom White Arrow-designed pieces,’ Keren explains.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
The home has been decorated with wood throughout. Using white oak, White Arrow wanted to make the space feel refined but also ensure it endures years of wear and tear.
Keren said, ‘We designed a custom white oak Primary closet, a new white oak connecting staircase with curved detailing, refinished the floors, selected lighting and hardware throughout, and revised the home’s design detailing to bring in curves where possible – including window wells, as well as numerous decisions to maximize storage for the active family.’
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
When describing the bedrooms on the lower floors, Keren says they contrast with the sleek, industrial feel of the top floor. ‘In contrast, the colors and patterning become more saturated on the lower floors, including a bold, immersive scenic mural, hand-drawn wallpapers, and graphic rugs and window coverings in the kids’ rooms.’
The wallpaper idea in the children’s room is playful and brings the perfect amount of intricacy without overwhelming the space, balanced by the abstract colorful rug and the curved wood furniture.
(Image credit: Ethan Herrington)
Shop the look
Colben Modern Colorful Glass Globe Pendant Light
This colorful abstract pendant light is the perfect balance of contemporary and sophisticated. Hang in an entryway or above a dining table for a pop of color and shine.
Gabriola 60″ Bench – Ivory Bouclé
Boucle is used throughout the home, bringing a soft, plush feel to the space. This boucle bench is the perfect bedroom essential that will stand proudly at the end of a bed.
Courbe Green Ceramic Table Lamp with Rattan Shade
You’ll notice this stylish rattan lamp in the dining room. With its green ceramic base and rattan shade, it’s the perfect balance of rustic and contemporary.
Zigzag Metal Taper Holders (Small)
Abstract, playful shapes dominate the penthouse. This wavy iron taper holder is a classic way of bringing interest into your scheme without going overboard.
Aymer 5 x 8 Rug – Copper 5 x 8
Geometric prints are used throughout the duplex, like the rug in the bedroom. This one has a similar warm feel that will make a space feel snug but also elegant.
Blanca Small Beige Ribbed Ceramic Vase
Textured vases are scattered throughout the home, much like this textured ceramic vase that will give any surface a sense of curation and effortless elegance.
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