The Perfect Perch

Author:

Candace Barnes curates a sophisticated San Francisco Penthouse

In the entry, the console in bronze is by Elan Atelier. Photos by Christopher Stark.
The custom aubergine sofa sits atop a rug by Holly Hunt.
Photos by Christopher Stark.

“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.”


“One of our favorite pieces is the custom dining table that pulls apart to create a table for four for bridge games as well as a table for ten for entertaining and hosting their family,” says Barnes. Photos by Christopher Stark.
The Quartzite Taj Mahal countertops create soothing energy in the kitchen.
Photos by Christopher Stark.

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.”

All barware and accessories are from Anthem.
Photos by Christopher Stark.
Weathered metals wallcovering by Maya Romanoff complements the custom onyx vanity in a powder room.
Photos by Christopher Stark.

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.”

An antique walnut desk by Jens Risom faces the S.F. skyline in his office.
Photos by Christopher Stark.
Wood veneer wallcovering Ajiro in coffee  by Maya Romanoff lines the hallway.
Photos by Christopher Stark.

“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.”

Lounge chairs with foot rest by Bright Chair Company provide a cozy resting place to soak up the views.
Photos by Christopher Stark.

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.”