Meet the Derive Design Duo

The Emerald is complete and prospective homeowners have been enjoying virtual and in-person tours of eight new model homes and amenity spaces with jaw dropping Seattle views. We’d like to personally invite you inside the southwest facing one-bedroom, one-bath Model Residence 2405, but first we’re introducing you to the design duo behind its style, Christopher and Kimberly at Derive Design. We caught up with the pair to bring you their unique design perspective and tips for new homeowners as residents move-in and personalize their space.

 

 

 

A local, Seattle based, boutique interior design studio, Derive Design’s work ranges from restaurant and hospitality environments to multi-family housing and amenity spaces, model units, residential new construction and tenant improvement.

 

At Derive Design, our philosophy is to be bold and curious. We love starting with function then crafting an artistic vision to create a unique sense of place.

 

We asked Kimberly and Christopher to describe their inspiration behind the model design at The Emerald:

Living in the heart of the Emerald City is a distinct experience. You can see everything from these condos – the layers of mountains, the rippling Sound and its ever-changing weather and sunsets. You also experience the urban hustle of downtown and all it has to offer. This unique vantage point inspired us to create an interior that is tranquil and soothing as a counterpoint to the energy all around at street level, yet has enough of an edge to feel rooted in the urban environment.

 

 

Describe your favorite design features in The Emerald’s Panoramic-Level Model Residence 2405The large windows, amazing views, and the abundant natural light!

 

Are there certain signature items that all of your designs include?  Layers of texture, something of scale and a mix of contemporary and vintage finds. 

 

What’s your personal favorite Seattle-based retailer to find items for the home? RD Interiors Showroom is our go-to for one of a kind found objects, unique art and vintage industrial pieces.  

 

Are you seeing any décor trends as we move into uncharted territory? As people are increasing their time at home, more than ever it is important to make your home work for you, whatever that may look like regardless of trends. 

 

Do you have any suggestions for new homeowners looking to add their own personal touch? Always start with the art, it gives the design a direction and informs the color palette. Don’t hesitate on a piece when it’s right for the space and you love it. 

 

What current color palette in terms of soft furnishings or accents do you feel would highlight The Emerald interiors in a way to maximize merging indoors and out? Outside those windows exists every color – yellow/orange/red from docks, blue/greens from the water and mountains and neutrals from the buildings. We recommend finding what parts of that palette resonate with you, then pulling any few of those colors inside. 

 

You can find and follow Kimberly and Christopher’s personal design journey on Instagram!

 

The residences at The Emerald are a reflection of the sky, elements and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, interpreted for contemporary living. Join us to view Seattle’s new collection of modern high-rise condominium homes rising above an iconic downtown address at Second and Stewart.