2024

Ancient ruins

Boston

Developed for an architect in Boston, the design responds to the panoramic urban view by exploring the relationship between contemporary city forms and ancient ruins.

The first thing that caught our attention on site was the city view from the window. Seen through an unfocused gaze, the stacked building volumes reminded us of ancient cities slowly dissolving into sand and dunes—leading to the decomposition of forms. This impression shaped the overall concept: a transformation of architecture across time, from solid structures to fluid, eroded landscapes.

Sophisticated kitchen and dining space with a carved travertine table and sculptural wood base. Dark wood chairs by Minjae Kim contrast with pale wood floors. Backdrop includes built-in stone counters and open shelving with tinted mirror backsplash. {horizontal}

In the kitchen, the sculptural island is based on the silhouette of ancient ruins, rendered in limestone and paired with a tinted mirror backsplash that reflects the urban skyline. Materials like travertine, oxidized metal, and glass were chosen to balance historic references with a contemporary finish.

Artful living room featuring a tan Dune sofa by Pierre Paulin with geometric, wave-like forms. Abstract wall art and a trio of vintage space age wall sconces add character. Behind the seating area, dark-toned built-in kitchen and textured walls contrast with soft natural light. {horizontal}

We started our furniture selection with the Pierre Paulin “Dune” sofa as a central piece — its flowing shape echoes soft topography. Vintage sconces and an Atelier Fevrier carpet continue this language of fragmented forms and curved geometry.

Warm-toned living room with a sculptural brown Dune modular sofa by Pierre Paulin. Custom wood paneling and built-in shelving house curated books and art. Wall-mounted sculptures and natural textures complete the contemporary setting. {wide}

Minimalist bedroom with a sculptural green bed by Faina, black bedding, and a distinctive custom designed soft-edged ceiling light. Sheer curtains cover floor-to-ceiling windows, with a Boston skyline visible outside. A curved leather chaise by De Sede faces the bed. {horizontal}

The bedroom features the modular DS-602 sofa by De Sede, dividing the space into two functional zones. Its flexibility and low profile support the layout while referencing the project's overall focus on sculptural, adaptable design.