City Retreat in the Mountains with LS Interior Design Group

WRITTEN BY Bek Mitchell-Kidd 
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Katie Shaw 
INTERIOR DESIGN BY LS Interior Design Group

Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, in the Kimpton Hotel Arras complex, is this chic pied-à-terre. Sitting pretty on the 15th floor, the two-bedroom, two-bath, 2,100-square-foot condo boasts a panoramic view. 

As a second home for an empty nest couple, the condo is open concept with the living room flowing into the dining area which serves up uninterrupted views of both Asheville and the mountains beyond. 

“The clients wanted a getaway where they would feel like they were on vacation every time they arrived. From the design side, we wanted to create an oasis, one that felt sophisticated, happy, and warm—just like our clients,” says Kelle Vickery of LS Interior Design Group who worked on the project, led by Lizzy Summerlin.

The design is warm and fuss-free which keeps the focus on the extraordinary vista. The color palette is a mixture of warm whites and even a neutral pink, which provides just enough contrast for the heavier tones of the furniture pieces. 

“We used many natural elements that give a nod to the mountains in the region. We selected a burl wood coffee table, hide rugs, pottery, and a live edge dining table,” says Lizzy Summerlin.

The dining table, handcrafted by Elko Hardwoods, is paired with a Lucite base and modern chairs. “We love the juxtaposition of mixing very modern pieces with the natural earthy items to give that great push-and-pull that forms the personality of the space,” says Kelle. 

In an open concept plan—especially a loft—creating intentional gathering areas is key. The clients wanted a place to be comfortable when it was just the two of them, but with ample seating to host friends and family. In the living room most pieces serve more than one function; being useful even when not needed for additional seating. 

Given all of the glass and being atop Asheville’s tallest building, there is an incredible amount of natural light. The abundance of light informed the client collaboration and all the lighting decisions made by Lizzy. “For example, the client selected the dining room light fixture to have more of an architectural sculptural feel, and the blown glass pendants over the island reflect the light. They are beautiful at night too, and complement the warm glow of the city lights,” she says. 

Fortuitously, the clients purchased the condo in the early stages of the building’s renovation process (it was formerly a BB&T building) and were able to add their own touches. “They selected the hardwood floor finish, and added glass doorknobs, unique light fixtures, and custom drapery. They also added glass shelves to either side of the fireplace to display their collections from past exciting adventures,” shares Lizzy.

The clients’ collection also includes original artwork, “Dandelion,” by artist Mitchell Lonas. Mitchell begins his process by applying paint to a metal panel, then he uses a custom cutting tool to create incredible plant and animal images. Each piece is immaculately presented with hidden cleats that make the work appear as if it is floating in the front of the wall, making it the perfect piece to balance the room. 

“My favorite part of the design is the wow effect that you get as you enter through the front door. If I were going to pop over for a visit, I would love to spend a little time in the swivel chairs between the living room and the kitchen— a perfect place to take in all the interesting aspects of the condo and the beautiful view of the city,” says Lizzy.