To reveal our latest design, we asked our Senior Interior Designer, Aleah Carr to answer some questions about her design process for this project. Here are her thoughts on the design challenges, inspiration, and how to create a “resimercial” space for our client within a church that was built in the 1950s!

What was the inspiration behind the design?

Inspiration for this space came directly from the state of Arizona. Our Tel-Aviv-based client specifically asked for a space that had a residential vibe and felt like home. They wanted to create an environment so nice it would inspire their employees to not only respect the space but, ultimately, get them excited to come to work. We layered a lot of natural materials wood, rattan, and marble then amplified the impact with bold hues and unusual textiles throughout. We also aimed to make a big impact with found objects, vintage mid-century pieces, organic textures and design features created by local artists.

We wanted to create a space truly unique to Jo and her family. We created this little reading nook in the corner of their living room to provide a place for laptop work and family hangouts.

What was your favorite space and why?

My favorite space definitely has to be the entry. The rope feature created by the very talented local textile artist, Taylor Crockett, makes such a huge impact before you even get the chance to see the rest of the space. The idea here was to separate the spaces in an unconventional way without obstructing the view. The bold patterns and hues of the rope feature immediately catch your eye and get you excited for what’s to come on the other side. In addition to the rope feature, we created small seating areas within the entry that truly give you a residential vibe which was the exact direction we were heading. I’m dying to have that leather chair in my own home now!

What was the greatest design challenge?

The biggest challenge at hand was definitely the mixing of commercial and residential design. How do we create a space that has a residential aesthetic without sacrificing the quality and durability necessary for a successful commercial setting? We found a perfect balance between the two by finding some pieces that were commercially rated but had a residential look. We also opted for more durable fabrics like leather and performance velvet rather than going with textiles that wouldn’t stand the test of time. It was definitely difficult to curate, but I think we were successful.

Why did you choose to incorporate vintage pieces into this workspace?

Have you ever seen a piece of furniture and just knew it was the one? Well, that’s how I feel about MOST vintage furniture and we were lucky that our client totally agreed. Not only is it a unique way to incorporate sustainability (reduce-reuse-recycle), but the quality of vintage furniture is so much better than that of newer items making it last so much longer so you can share it with the world for a long time. I hold a very special place in my heart for vintage pieces, especially after having learned so much about them in college.

What does the term “resimercial“ mean?

Resimercial is a totally new term in the design world. It means blending two opposite design approaches— commercial and residential. In my mind, resimercial design is where the two worlds meet to create workspaces that are homey and cozy but still functional and professional. It’s a more casual way to work that also increases productivity and, in the long run, gets people excited to come to work. You do spend more time at work than at home, so why not make it a space that you are thrilled to be in?