Back Bay Brownstone

Location:
Boston, MA

This Back Bay home is located in a late 19th century building that had recently been converted into multiple residences. The design could have veered toward traditional, but Elms opted for an aesthetic that layers classic with contemporary elements and evokes a Parisian vibe, starting with the light fixtures. The work of French artisans can be found throughout the home, including a pendant of dark antique brass with tinted blown glass balls that flanks the living room sectional. Above the stairway, a vintage French light fixture light made of glass spears adds drama. Three large bubble pendants above the kitchen island punctuate the all-white room, where light and views of the Charles River are reflected in the lacquered finish of the cabinets.

Elms chose a palette of warm grey paint throughout and kept infusions of color to a minimum, such as the hand-painted mural of gold detailing along the stair opening. In the primary bedroom, long drapes of ocean-blue wool and cashmere accentuate the room’s lofty ceilings. Brass-rimmed globe pendants hang beside the bed, which was custom designed by Elms. The white and brass vanity was another custom fit, with a mirror flanked with hand-made patinaed brass and white-frosted glass sconces that pair French Beaux Arts style and 20th Century industrial design. The knobs on the lights echo the motif of the custom wallcovering, decorated with tiny brass studs, while the mirror has small brass rivets inset on the corners. “You want elements to connect,” Dee says, “but for the effect to seem effortless and almost unnoticeable.” The result is a striking home with an exquisite mix of classic design elements and contemporary details.