The Process:
Relocating the dining area to the far end of the room opened new possibilities. The new location demanded a strong statement, and a small but substantial mahogany dining table fit the bill. Together with a tall display/storage cabinet and generous tufted leather chairs, the dining area commands attention from afar.

With the dining area moved, we could now position the seating area opposite the only wall available for a flat panel TV. Instead of an entertainment unit, components are housed in a cleverly concealed niche below the mantel of an electric fireplace. The clients had also requested that we incorporate a recently purchased cream ultrasuede clubchair. To complement it, we selected a compact cream velvet sofa. While the sofa blends into the background, the chair stands out against a moody deep purple-grey wall -- a tone that continues into the open kitchen beyond and balances the weight of the dining area grouping. A black and white cowhide bench atop a black and cream rug bridges the divide between the kitchen and dining areas. Enlivening the neutral colour scheme are shimmery silk pillows in trendy chartreuse reversing to pumpkin.

In furnishing this space, our guiding principle was to find pieces with unique, high fashion details. Thus we selected the dining table for its silver-grey pinstripe outlines. The drapery fabric was chosen for its au courant woven geometric pattern. The pendant lamp over the dining table is a simple lampshade -- but with an intricate silver cage that subtly echoes the drapery backdrop. And silver studs take the cowhide bench from rustic to chic.

When it came to selecting lighting for the living area, we wanted to do something 'beyond' as well. So, instead of plugging in a pair of table lamps, we made use of the existing ceiling outlet to run a track system over the seating area. Suspended from it, over elegant cream mirrored end tables, is a pair of understated polished nickel chandeliers. Halogen track heads between them are positioned to highlight artwork above the sofa. Rather than the usual painting or framed print, this artwork is a series of 3D pieces that offer something more -- a dramatic play of shadows.