The challenge was to tame a vast open loft space with a 15 foot ceiling and create an intimate environment as an oasis of tranquility in the heart of downtown Philadelphia. Fortunately there were some excellent elements to work with. The 19th Century pine floors only required sanding and the application of a light coat of varnish. The previously painted brick walls were given a fresh coat of paint in a rich cream colour. Then to maximize the sense of space and openness, while creating defined living, dining and sleeping areas, I had partial walls constructed. The introduction of large scale furniture and some oversized paintings along with a selection of interesting antiques and accessories fill the entire space without making it feel overcrowded. Your eye moves easily about as you visually explore the space and an atmosphere of sophistication and calm is created as the perfect antidote to the chaos just beyond the brick walls.