When Opposites Attract

Today we take a glimpse inside the Brooklyn home of designer Athena Calderone. It is a home of contrasts – dark and light; curves and hard edges; old and new. As a result, this beautiful residence offers the perfect play on the idea that opposites most certainly attract.

We love the light, bright and open spaces that make up this striking home. A large black archway creates a bold entryway. Along with vintage wooden furniture and modern artwork, this space is trendy and minimalist. As a result, the dark and light creates harmony and balance here and sets the tone for the rest of the home.

Pale grey walls contrast against bold black finishes. We see this as many of the home’s architectural details are crisp in black – fireplaces, the staircase, window frames and an arched doorway. These stand out beautifully against the palest grey interior walls.

A living space of contrasts

“When you juxtapose something feminine, soft and curvaceous against something more masculine, hard-lined and bold, you create a certain voltage. Put together, the opposition ends in harmony,” explains Athena.

In the living room, a bulbous sofa is contrasted with an angular coffee table. Secondly, a beautiful antique curved mirror stands out against straight-edged and oversized window frames… the end result is a play of textures and finishes and contrast that creates flow and harmony.

A bold kitchen

Next, a light-filled kitchen seems both bold and beautiful. We can see the contrast here as dark cabinets are juxtaposed against a beautiful light marble backsplash. Next, a large island becomes a gathering point. In the end, the kitchen is contemporary with black, gold, marble, steel and more working together in a perfect blend.

The hallway wall was removed to maximise the space. A bonus is that the original staircase now becomes a real focal point. Again, we see the contrast between black and white here because this becomes the constant throughout this home.