The master bath features dual shower heads, tile by Artistic Tile and handstools by Global Views.
Three words: texture, detail and movement. That’s how interior designer Julia Buckingham would describe a recently remodeled modernist Scottsdale retreat for a Minneapolis-based businessman.
Buckingham—who owns Buckingham Interiors + Design and Modernique at Uptown Plaza (100 E. Camelback Road, Ste. 112, Phoenix)—is known for her bold, eclectic style, pattern play and an eye for beautifully quirky objets d’art.
But, for this project, it was all about the views. “[The client] wanted the interior to seamlessly blend with the landscape,” she says. “I drew inspiration from midcentury and Brutalist design, but primarily from the surrounding environment, which is such a huge part of what our client enjoys most about this location.”
Pops of color add personality to the chaise lounge in the master bedroom, with wall art by Kelli Ellis.
The result was a color palette that was decidedly more understated, using natural materials, warm rust tones and rich woods throughout. “There is definitely a midcentury feel to the space,” Buckingham explains, “but juxtaposed with more contemporary elements to create a design that is exciting and unexpected.” The most striking feature upon entry is the textured granite wallcovering and, looking down, a custom tile runner that beckons into the main living area. “The existing space plan was very modular and closed-off, so we really wanted to open it up and let more of the natural light flow through.” Buckingham created small contrasts, like stark concrete with a curvaceous live-edge dining table, to seamlessly blend with the exterior. Visual interest continues into the kitchen with waved concrete on the kitchen walls and stepped bluestone in the master bath.
A wood-paneled feature wall by Porter Barnwood adds a base for the master bedroom’s natural color palette. Art is by Peter Horjus.
Overall, the client was thrilled with the result, which effectively combined his desire for a relaxing seasonal hideaway with some unexpected elements.
“I loved how this project had a really strong voice all the way through,” she says. “We listened to our client, collaborated and pushed him in some ways. All the different elements came together to create something beautiful and absolutely unique.”
Photography by: michael woodall/buckingham interiors | original artwork on master bedroom nightstands by peter horjus (peterhorjus.com), available exclusively at modernique