Engaging Elements
Design of 5555 Dunbar showcases a mix of warm and cool touches
When she worked on the decor in the display suite at the 5555 Dunbar new-home project, designer Jennifer Eden played with paradoxes, blending warm woods with chrome, clean lines and contemporary cool decor.
In fact, the principal of Occupy Design blends warm and cool so often and so successfully in her designs, she’s proud to claim it as a professional trademark of sorts.
“If there is one thing that I can be accused of repeating, it is this mix of clean slick modern paired with wood,” she says, referring to the moody mix of furnishings in the living room of Omicron’s presentation suite.
“I am easily swooned by a good clean slick interior, but I still want cosy, comfortable in my contemporary (space). The introduction of natural wood elements makes this very achievable.”
The living room is calm and contemporary, with greys and dark shades creating a cool, masculine look, emphasized even more by the steel and chrome legs on the chair and standing lamp. She brings in an earthy balance with stacked wooden side tables, a green throw and pillow, light sofa and area rug, which warms up a room already full of natural light.
The standout piece in the attractive living space has to be a twotoned wall unit with glass shelving, a piece that, with the Zen-like abstract art, is among her favourite features in the suite. Both add a look of luxury and depth to the room.
One of 5555 Dunbar’s greatest draws is the natural light and fresh air coming in from east and west exposures. Each suite will have a balcony or terrace, and the attractive courtyard and windows allow natural light to stream in.
“Both of the colour schemes (available to buyers) in this project are fairly soft and light. All that natural light will flood the units, and it’s going to create some beautiful living spaces.”
It’s safe to say that Eden considers the whole 5555 Dunbar project a special project. The four-storey building with homes above retail space will be situated within a well established neighbourhood, and it’s been welcomed by the westside community. At a recent opening party, neighbours gathered in the hundreds.
“It is such a privilege to be even a small part of building the landscape of Vancouver,” Eden says. “We always consider the neighbourhood when designing — not only the end occupants of our units, but the community (around them).”