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#JKID Concept | Downtown Artist’s Loft

I don’t often post about my real life design projects, as most high-profile clients like to preserve their anonymity and keep their private home well under wraps.
But every once in a while a special project lands in my lap and I can’t help but be just as excited about the process as the solution and final reveal.  Having just completed the design development of this artist’s loft/tattoo parlor/mixed media gallery in downtown Pomona, we’re finally starting installation and I couldn’t be more ecstatic at the direction it’s going.

The Vibe

Steampunk speakeasy meets industrial vintage glam.  My client, Paul Nguyen celebrity-tattoo artist extraordinaire (see his incredible work HERE and HERE), wanted his work/play loft to exude the kind of creative flair indicative of his own personal style. Equal parts SoCal cool+ East Coast swag with a highly inspired European aesthetic; I sought to design a space awash in confident colors and inventive solutions.
The Design
The space is divided into 2 levels, the lower floor will house a lounge area, new bar, a rotating art gallery, and in the rear, a fully functioning commercial kitchen for pop-up professional Chef’s dinners. The upper level will be the exclusive work area, designed solely for the purpose of tattooing and client consultations.

BEFORE

The Space Plan

As you can see from the floor plan below, I demarcated specific “zones” for the various operations. The program permits these tasks to work independently of one another as well as provide an open floor plan for alternate solutions. Furniture is both movable and modular to allow changes in special event configurations. The upper deck required visibility to the lower level; however with the option to partially close off the area so guests have that privacy when they’re getting inked.

 

{Before}

Finishes and Materials
Think rich sunset hues of reds and golds to bring out the natural pigment of the exposed brick. Backlit onyx and dark woods anchor the bar while sumptuous suede and natural hide envelop guests in lounge. And of course my signature antique mirror and mixed metals for a bit of reflective shine. Can’t forget that bit of bling when you’re dealing with a very industrial space, it adds that element of opulence required when designing around such hard finishes and natural materials.
The Progress
Venetian plaster on a feature wall…sand blasting and polishing the concrete floors…the bar being installed…Shoji screen installed for privacy…new storage in the loft area…tin ceiling squares mounted to the bar area…reclaimed wood paneling for an industrial rustic look…

Can’t wait to show y’all the FINAL REVEAL! We’re about a couple weeks out from the finale then it’s GRAND OPENING party hardy time!!! And if you know Paul like I know Paul, that boy can throw one helluva bash!!!

Stay tuned hunnies!For the daily haps into my life as interior designer/ stylist/ event coordinator follow me on Instagram HERE.

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35 Comments

  5. Brittney Reply

    This is an amazing behind the scenes look! I've always wondered how the process of interior design goes (and you had me at "steampunk speakeasy"). I'm tempted to drop by this place just on the decor alone. You've done a marvelous job with the sketches.

    Brittney

    Another Beautiful Thing blog

  6. Rachel Reply

    Wow!!! So so talented!!!!!! But yes, I could probably use advising now and then :))))) I'm just in Hancock Park – neighbors!

  28. RaindropsofSapphire Reply

    Wow, this is amazing! Also, I just wanted to say that I really like your blog! I'm glad that I found it through Chiara (it seems we have a mutual liking for her blog!) It would be nice if you could stop by my blog sometime too (I'm from England) as I post my outfits, personal style, likes, new purchases and much more 🙂 🙂

    Raindrops of Sapphire

  30. Marlen Reply

    whaaaaaat this is AMAZING!! do my house next?! I've never been to such a gorgeous tattoo parlor. I especially love the gallery wall on the exposed brick- talk about swooning.

    xo marlen
    Messages on a Napkin

  35. Ashley Minck Reply

    It looks incredible! I love how dark and moody the vide is at first glance but that it quickly changes over to a edgy sexy feel. Amazing

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