Kristen’s “High-Low Mix”
Name: Kristen
Location: Nob Hill — Portland, Oregon
Located in a cute neighborhood in Northwest Portland’s trendy and walkable Nob Hill, my 1100-square-foot condo is a modern space inspired by my passion for graphic design. As an art director and graphic designer for Nike, I am constantly inspired by my travels around the world, and have peppered my living space with items collected along my journey. Large-format one-of-a-kind typographic woodblock prints from Nashville’s historic Hatch Show Print; another (smaller) black & white woodblock print bought directly from an artist’s studio in Tuscany; small watercolor scenes from a street artists in Hong Kong and Paris; a poster for the film Helvetica (the typeface); limited-edition posters hailing from London design studio Accept & Proceed (information graphics depicting Hours of Light and Dark); and a world map studded with concert tickets, currency, and art museum & restaurant memorabilia collected from around the world.
I consider my condo to be a modern “high-low mix.” As a 29-year-old single (and independent!) woman, I allow myself to splurge on some classic items, like four mismatched Eames chairs surrounding the BluDot dining table; nesting Muuto coffee tables; a Nelson bench; Scholten & Baijings blanket; and a series of Jonathan Adler vases. My Mid Century sectional couch was custom ordered from the local store Perch, a cute shop focused solely on couches, sofas, and upholstered chairs. I balance these design classics with some lower-end simple and modern accessories: a modern hanging IKEA light; IKEA bookshelves, dresser and accent chair; West Elm throw; an Urban Outfitters bedroom rug; and abstract paintings by yours truly. |
A monochromatic black, white and gray color palette forms the base of my entire space, punctuated by pops of color. Bright oranges, greens and pinks come through by way of art, books, plants, Hay Kaleido trays, and a kelly green accent chair. |
I love the balance of grayscale and color; high and low; sophistication and playfulness. My passion for design, travel, style, modern aesthetics, well-designed objects, and meaningful stories manifest themselves in a space that is a genuine expression of me. I simply love coming home every day, and I couldn’t ask for anything more from my home! |
Thanks, Kristen!
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