High Style

Upon entering this Bob Brown-designed condominium at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Atlanta, Buckhead, there’s something immediately familiar about it. There’s a certain je ne sais quoi that you can’t quite put your finger on, until he reveals the impetus for his color scheme—and, for that matter, the overall theme. “I bought this Hermès silk scarf at Neiman’s, and we pulled the colors from that,” he says, pointing out the instantly recognizable accessory, now transformed into a decorative pillow. Taking the design cue one step further, Brown also incorporated a subtle equestrian theme, though “I tried not to make it too horsey,” he laughs.

Not to worry. The underlying theme is just as low-key as it is luxurious. And while the oranges and browns used throughout could have become heavy handed, they’re anything but, thanks to liberal doses of creamy whites. Mere steps from the front door, for instance, the dining area doubles as a handsome library, complete with built-in floor-to-ceiling shelves that serve up space for a bar or buffet. “We weren’t afraid of color in here,” says Brown. “We lacquered the Parsons table orange. And I love how the Donghia chairs are stackable.”

What makes this space even more spectacular is its juxtaposition with the kitchen, just as light and bright as the dining room/library is dark and dramatic. What the two have in common, however, is careful editing. Accessories—like the set of horns on the dining table and the horse sculpture in the kitchen—are kept to a minimum, allowing each well-chosen piece to have maximum impact. But there’s another benefit to Brown’s pared-down approach: It helps create a more spacious feeling in a place with limited square footage.
Meanwhile, just a few feet beyond, an intimate living area strikes just the right balance—of lights and darks, warm and cool hues, soft textures and those that are slick. What’s evident, too, is the modern approach Brown has taken here, in the clean-lined furniture and contemporary art right down to the last detail, including an ethanol-burning fireplace.

The study in contrasts wends its way into the master bedroom, too, where a white-upholstered bed seems even more brilliant when dressed in chocolate brown linens. “It’s a little masculine,” Brown admits, “but had we not put the horns over the bed—and added other accessories like a telescope—it could have easily had an entirely different feeling.”

In short, this residence is as luxurious as the Hermès scarf that inspired it. But that’s no surprise, really; a sumptuous feeling is the hallmark of this entire building. Residents have access to in-home spa services and housekeeping as well as ‘round-the-clock porter, valet and concierge service. There’s a skydeck with a pool, a media lounge and fine dining at The Residence Club. And Bob Brown has personally designed the lobby, fitness center and spa as well as guest suites.
Superlative style meets supreme service. It’s a match made in heaven or, at the very least, high above Buckhead.