The Perfect Perch
Author:Lindsey ShookCandace Barnes curates a sophisticated San Francisco Penthouse
“I believe that a beautiful box can showcase whatever it dictates and that finishes and furniture follow from there. I also follow a design philosophy that embraces Feng Shui and the energy of Chi to create balance and establish harmony within a home,” says designer Candace Barnes on how she approached the design of a S.F. pied-à-terre for a semi-retired couple who needed a place to stay when visiting their grandchildren. “They have been married for fifty years,” she notes. “The husband gave her carte blanche with the interior design elements and we had great fun shopping as she had wonderful taste.”
Located inside the Harrison, the clients wanted the feel of the 3,200-square-foot home to be comfortable and durable enough for family time while still capturing the city’s sophisticated essence. “The design goal was to reconfigure the residence to better capture the city views and better suit their love of entertaining, spending time with family, holiday gatherings, playing and watching games together,” says Barnes. “For example, the dining room table was designed so that it comes apart into two tables, for playing bridge.”
The inspiration began with a request for a lush purple sectional that Barnes translated into a custom aubergine velvet covered sofa. Then they turned their focus to improving the layout and personalizing the finishes. “I designed a light filled onyx vanity for the powder room. Walls were moved and ceiling heights adjusted to balance the composition and flow throughout,” she says. “We retrofitted the kitchen, added all new lighting and automated everything from their sound system, lighting and drapery. We also designed his and her offices with custom furnishings to take advantage of the sweeping skyline views.”
“There are so many special moments in this home,” says Barnes. “Every door in the 40 foot hallway is hidden and the two entries leading into the living room, where I was able to raise the ceilings and create a “pause” moment before the breathtaking views draw your eyes towards the bay.”
During the big reveal Barnes was able to capture her client’s level of happiness. “It was wonderful to see them take in the entirety of the finished design—a new living space where they felt totally at home—where any type of entertaining was possible, they could take in the breathtaking views and be able to enjoy each moment of their time spent there.”