I just watched this tour of the 2008 Designer Visions House Beautiful apartment in Manhattan that was designed by Susan Ferrier. Ferrier transformed this glass tower box into a tranquil living space, which is somewhat of a signature of her designs. She achieved this calming look by restricting the color palette, repeating yet limiting bold gestures such as large scaled furniture and mirrors, and adding a few unexpected touches like large animal statues to give the space some life. Here are a few important tips from Susan:

SUSAN FERRIER’S TIPS FOR TRANQUIL LIVING:

- Unify the space by having a common rhythm or coloration throughout your home e.g. repetition of fabric, textures, mirrors, and the gray-blue-green color scheme seen in this home.

- To create a calm space you have to be disciplined and limit the choices you make.

- Use big pieces in small rooms because it helps to calm the space. Ferrier believes that lots of small items in a small space creates a nervous atmosphere.

- Accessories should relate to each other so it looks less cluttered.

- Live with fewer, better things.

- Do not have all of your furniture up on legs otherwise it looks like there are a lot of people running around. Ground certain pieces, like a skirted wingback chair or solid piece of wood that is used as a stool.

- Use floor to ceiling drapery to add to the architecture and help delineate the space.

Susan Ferrier demonstrates her tranquil living approach in this townhouse that she designed for her clients, Ted and Donna Giles, in Alabama. You will notice the soft color palette of cream, bronze, brown, and grey, selected large-scale furniture, grounded pieces (particularly the wooden blocks used as coffee tables), and the accessories that relate to each other in proportion and theme.

Image credits: House Beautiful