Quintece Hill-Mattauszek, founder of Studio Q, has revitalized a two-bedroom apartment in Washington, DC, highlighting bold colors and stylish book storage. With over 20 years of design experience, she skillfully combined modern aesthetics with classic elements to create a vibrant home.
The living room features a striking royal blue sectional sofa that anchors the color scheme, complemented by staggered vertical bookshelves showcasing the client's extensive book collection. Hill-Mattauszek describes the project as straightforward, noting, "The home was in great condition; it just needed a little touch of modern charm and personality."
One of the standout features in the space is a pair of vintage midcentury leather side chairs with lucite backs, which she sourced after an extensive search. "I drove three hours to Philadelphia to get them," she said, expressing her enthusiasm for the design choices.
The apartment's modern touches blend seamlessly with classic elements.
An old-fashioned bar setup contrasts with contemporary pieces, embodying a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Hill-Mattauszek emphasizes the importance of incorporating bold colors in a livable way, which is evident in the harmonious blue, gold, and gray palette repeated throughout the home.
The dining room, while modest in size, serves a central role in the apartment's layout. Its built-in shelves not only accommodate books but also vintage decor, adding personality. Hill-Mattauszek’s love for books shines through as she acknowledges the room's capacity to showcase her clients' collection.
Combining modern and vintage elements is key to her design philosophy. An example is the dining chairs, a contemporary take on traditional French Louis XVI style, which complement the overall aesthetic. The consistent use of colors transitions smoothly from the living room to the bedroom, where variations in design elements, such as geometric wallpaper, add interest.
Creating visually appealing bedrooms can be challenging, but Hill-Mattauszek introduced unique features like a bodhisattva lamp to enhance the space. "I love the amount of light that pours into the space," she reflects, noting how it allows experimentation with color.
Texture plays an essential role in the design story as well.
In the bedroom, she juxtaposes various materials, mixing woven bedding with a leather headboard and adding layers through decorative bolsters.
Hill-Mattauszek believes that design should resonate with occupants' lives. "I believe when you can walk into a space and immediately understand who occupies it, it’s a good thing," she stated, underscoring her commitment to crafting personal and meaningful spaces.
