Sleek, modern and sophisticated, Cheval Bethesda is a new condominium that comprises 71 luxury residences. The lobby design sets the tone immediately and impactfully, using the building’s moniker, French for “horse” as our inspiration. A glass-tile mosaic, translating a photograph of galloping horses by Irene Suchocki, runs from the entry vestibule into the lobby, creating an ethereal sense of movement and sparkle. The mosaic’s blending of silver and gold accents is repeated throughout the first-floor lobby, clubroom and mailroom with brass lighting, trim and hardware, and silvery-gray upholstery and wallpaper. We added warmth with tones of cognac, present in the woven wall covering in the lobby, and rich walnut that flows throughout the main level.
The design team overcame challenges in the lower-level fitness center, which has no windows and a low ceiling, by incorporating lots of light and a vibrant white palette so it now resembles a high-end hotel gym. Visitors are greeted with a sculptural white-plaster screen with openings that peek into the fitness area, lit by flush-mounted halos of light. The designers enlisted cognac-flecked wallcovering and walnut accents again down here, but against bright white backgrounds to enhance the contrast and light.
Throughout, we used patterned glass as space dividers, between the lobby and clubroom on the main level, and separating the gym from the yoga and spin room downstairs. The interior glass screens reference the sleekness of the glass and white stone on the exterior of the building, so that glossy elegance flows from inside out.
Awards Won
2018 | Delta Associates | Best Washington/Baltimore Interior Design Condominium Community |