Transcending Trends Through High Contrast Designs
the esd journal
Transcending Trends.
In the realm of design, our focus is on crafting spaces that transcend trends. By playing with color, texture, materials, and even the element of history, we enfold and embody timeless refinement in every room. These pieces come together, sometimes blending seamlessly in a monochromatic mien, but often in high contrast. Mixing hues, textures, and layers to create alluring contrast elevates the temperament of the space, giving it character, depth, and synergy.
However, this tight hold on the execution of a good, high-contrast design is an art, and, as for ESD, we find our inspiration in a number of places. For example, we’ve adopted our muse for our latest projects from the enduring allure of Dutch masterpieces and the forever fresh painting 'Chief' by Franz Kline. The execution comes in three primary forms: the subtle play of hues, luxurious textures, and furnishing with layers.
high contrast
Understanding high contrast is fairly simple: think of it as always using both sides of the coin. Where there is dark, add light. Where there is texture and embellishments add precision. Where there is a rough surface, there’s a smooth one. The idea simply being, that everything has its complementary opposite, and when they work in harmony there is an awe-inspiring balance.
Design has always utilized high contrast, but it became more appreciated in Mid-Century pieces, and more recently with the advent — and subsequent move away from — the all-beige, minimalist interiors.
PC: Jonny Valiant
Subtle play of hues
In our spaces, deep, velvety blacks converge with pristine whites, and vibrant patterns and textures harmonize with muted, timeless finishes — a visual balance that extends beyond transient design trends.
PC: Joshua McHugh
Luxurious textures
To create luxury through texture, we've introduced layered materials and textiles. Rich black walls, fractured marble tones in various colors, and warm wood surfaces are combined in varying degrees to create a multidisciplinary composition. Treating materials like its own medium, we build the room in a way to ensure a clean, intuitive balance between the elements.
PC: Haris Kenjar
PC: Haris Kenjar
Furnishing With Layers
Our furnishings, often bold in silhouette and purpose, create dynamic visual impacts. Whether utilizing geometric nuance, incorporating nature’s own artistic hand, or reanimating the historic era of the home’s construction, we painstakingly choose pieces that embody timeless refinement and seamlessly integrate into the modern aesthetic.
PC: Jonny Valiant
PC: Jonny Valiant
The task of designing a high contrast home starts with an appreciation for bold expressions suspended in atmospheres of neutrality, utilizing each side of the coin to bring out the best that it has to offer. If mastered, high contrast spaces exude an infectious, crisp confidence.