Benenson Warren Residence Dining Room
In order to create an elegant family-friendly duplex, Specht Harpman combined and renovated two classic six apartments on the Upper West Side. The plan creates a series of appropriately-scaled and thoughtfully decorated rooms for this growing young family. Warm materials connect the children's play and dining spaces to the grown-up living spaces, all within a clean, modern design aesthetic.
What Houzz contributors are saying:
White walls and light wood furnitureFor the most harmonious look, choose wood furniture that matches the warmth of your floors but is a few shades lighter. For instance, pair greyish or black wood floors with pale, weathered woods, and pair warm, rich floors (like the ones shown here) with warm medium- to light-toned woods like cherry or maple. The lighter wood furniture, fluffy white rugs, and crisp white walls here provide contrast to the dark wood floors without appearing stark.
Types of varnish for woodVarnishes are categorised as water-based and solvent-based varnishes.Water-based varnishes are made of acrylic resins that dissolve in water. These varnishes are fast-drying, have high durability, less odour and are low on VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Solvent-based or oil-based varnishes contain oils that penetrate the wooden surface to impart more depth and colour to the wood. One drawback of such varnishes is that they tend to get yellow over a period of time. Also, the material takes more time to dry and emits strong odours because of the presence of high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Varnishes are available in numerous finishes such as gloss, satin and matte (low sheen).
Furniture shine and polish When it comes to furniture shine and polishing, the winning combination of half a cup of olive oil mixed with half a cup of vinegar can give the most reputed furniture polish brands a run for their money. The vinegar-olive oil combination, mixed with a few drops of lemon juice, can smooth out scratches on lighter grains and even remove coffee and water ring stains.
What Houzzers are commenting on:
wood floor... contrast with wall and carpet
I like the dark flooring - forgiving of stains and feels cosy (in combination with rug). We have a very bright room so maybe darker flooring will balance the light a bit?
Furniture Designer: A specialized field where function and fashion collide.
Everything but picture works. Love the level change.
