I am in charge of purchasing new furniture for the lobby of our loft/condo building. My budget is $5,000 and would like to keep it modern to fit the esthetic of the architecture. I'll explain. There is a mezzanine level of frosted glass and black steel which protrudes out into the lobby area which has at least 25-foot high ceilings with exposed duct work. Floor to ceiling windows are at the entrance-way, framed by stainless steel. The floor is a black terrazzo and there is either light wood veneer or grey brick on opposing walls.
I'm thinking the Barcelona chair or daybed is a must but have been trying to explore other options. There is currently very drab, dirty, uncoordinating furniture...including a horrendous rug. Currently, there are for four small club chairs and a coffee table (which can be good since this is the spot where agents and prospective residents sit to discuss the building)so it's a decent amount of space to work with.
It's important to myself and other residents to keep the furniture in line with the architecture and to make a statement, as the lobby is what you see when you first walk into the building.
Any suggestions? I want to be sure I make a good investment for the building by getting something that not only looks great but can withstand the traffic of being in the lobby.
With the budget restrictions you have it will be difficult to decorate with designer vintage items. If I were in your shoes I would explore new production vintage designs or some of the great contemporary pieces that are being produced today. The pieces will be more affordable and available and may be better able to withstand the wear they will likely see.
Why not contact either retromodern, circa50, or Unica and speak to them about your dilemma. Whichever you are most comfortable speaking with should be able to supply you furnishings that will meet both your aesthetic and budgetary considerations. Be sure to browse each of the sites and see who has a selection you are most interested in.
Good luck and let us know what you wind up doing...before and after pics would be great!
Barry Bryant GOMOD.COM :: bringing modern design home
Modern Furniture, Lighting and Bedding
