31 michigandesign.com Though the house was contemporary, the client brief for this room (opposite page) was to create a collection of international pieces from the 1950s, so when it came time to select accessories, we started first with historical research. Since all of the furniture used either gently curvilinear forms or strong pure geometry, we also tried to select pieces to repeat these shapes. The table lamp is Italian, Salviati, whose blown glass teardrop geometry appears to curve with the ombre coloration. A pair of serpentine Marion Anderson Noyes silver candlesticks for Towle 1955 contrast with the flat plane of the dining table top. Conversely, the amber Paul Kedelv Flygsfor Coquille bowl seems to repeat the exact shape of the flanking lounge chairs. The period glass bottles and vases were chosen for their strong geometry and matching coloration. When considering a contemporary space and the scale of that space, a few bold pieces used sparingly ensure a modern feeling through contrast and impact, even if the items are hundreds of years old. Accessories do not have to be modern to support a modern décor. This family room bookcase in a midcentury restoration is new but is based on the details of the period architecture. The homeowner had a tiny collection of pottery that she had collected. Building on her three or four interesting “studio” pieces, we expanded the collection with both valuable collectibles and “funky finds.” All are of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s era. A single turquoise vase adds a jolt to the otherwise neutral palette. – Mark Johnson, Mark Johnson & Associates Photos by George Dzharistos
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