Franklin St. Loft Escape

The third floor of this 1860s Franklin Street townhome in Mt. Vernon was a blank canvas when the client invited me to transform it. Spanning 2,000 square feet, the vaulted space that was originally a bible factory, is anchored by a working elevator original to the home, naturally dividing it into two zones: a north-end kitchen and dining area, and a south-end family room designed for relaxation and entertainment. Inspired by their vacation home in Puerto Rico, the clients sought a retreat that transitioned seamlessly from the urban energy of the Baltimore City street level to the tranquil ambiance of a coastal getaway.

To achieve this, we lime-washed the walls, designed and executed a bespoke hand-painted mural, and incorporated functional yet artful custom storage, shelving, and cabinetry. Moroccan Zellige tiles, brass sinks and fixtures, layered rugs, curated art, and thoughtful furnishings brought warmth and texture to the space. We collaborated with Hilton Carter, who designed lush plant installations, including a breathtaking living wall ascending the grand staircase from the second floor. This striking feature also became the centerpiece of Carter’s HBO/MAX pilot show. Together, with Jim Klausmeyer of Bmore Reclaimed, we designed the custom kitchen cabinetry that perfectly marries old-world charm with modern sophistication. Stained in a rich, custom, vintage blue, the design draws inspiration from the weathered patina of the historic architecture visible just outside their windows.

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The greatest challenge was reimagining the expansive footprint into distinct yet harmonious zones, balancing openness with intimacy to create a space that felt both extraordinary and livable. The result is a glowing, organic home—a living, breathing work of art. It invites connection, inspiration, and a sense of calm, serving as a testament to the power of thoughtful design to tell a beautiful, personal story.