Residential SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

A Refined Sanctuary – Apogee by Richard Wagner Studio

From the outset, the vision for Apogee was clear: to create a home that exudes sophistication without compromising on comfort. The couple’s lifestyle shaped Apogee, ensuring a balance of function and ambiance.

The couple’s lifestyle played a pivotal role in shaping the design, ensuring that every element contributes to both function and ambiance. Despite its generous proportions, the home maintains an inviting, intimate quality—an environment that draws guests in and makes them reluctant to leave. These personalized spaces, tailored to the couple’s daily routines, reflect an approach that goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on enhancing the way they experience their home. Bespoke millwork and textured wallpaper add depth to every corner, ensuring that no surface feels overlooked. An integrated home automation system enhances functionality, providing seamless control over lighting, curtains, air conditioning, and sound. This blend of technology and timeless design ensures that the home is as intuitive as it is beautiful. The connection to nature is also a defining feature—lush, vibrant greenery on the balconies provides a sense of serenity, while fresh flowers, replaced weekly, bring life and energy into the interiors. These subtle yet impactful details reinforce the idea that a home is a living entity, constantly evolving with its inhabitants.

"A home should be a reflection of the people who live in it, enhancing their daily lives with beauty and intention."

At the heart of the home, the living room is a masterpiece of layered textures and warm tones, designed to be both inviting and refined. Rich wood paneling adds depth and character to the walls, complementing the carefully curated selection of furniture. Every piece was custom-designed in Europe specifically for this space, reinforcing the home’s sense of exclusivity. A standout element is the exquisite rug from The Rug Company, which grounds the space while adding an understated elegance. Decorative lighting plays a key role in defining the ambiance—sconces mounted on the wood-paneled walls provide a soft glow, while table lamps introduce warmth and intimacy. The interplay of textures, from linen upholstery to suede accents, creates a tactile richness that enhances the overall experience.

The kitchen is a striking balance of craftsmanship and functionality. A bold stone island serves as the focal point, offering a dramatic contrast against the warmth of the wooden cabinetry. This seamless integration of natural materials enhances the visual continuity of the space, reinforcing the home’s refined aesthetic. Preserving the existing terrazzo flooring was a deliberate choice, allowing for a smooth, uninterrupted flow between spaces. The kitchen is not only a place for culinary creativity but also a social hub—designed to be as welcoming as it is practical.

"When design and emotion align, the result is a sanctuary—one that welcomes, inspires, and leaves a lasting impression on all who step inside."

Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining area is elevated by a sculptural pendant light—the Shape Up fixture from Roll & Hill—which adds a dynamic, artistic element to the space. This striking piece transforms the dining experience, creating a sense of occasion even in everyday moments. Muted tones in the furniture and textiles ensure that the space feels cohesive, while carefully selected decor elements add layers of personality. The result is an environment that is both functional and visually compelling, where every meal becomes an opportunity for connection. While the apartment already featured recessed lighting, the design introduced layers of decorative lighting to enhance ambiance and visual interest. Table lamps and pendant fixtures were strategically placed to bring warmth and personality to the space. One particularly striking element is the Shape Up pendant from Roll & Hill, which serves as a sculptural focal point above the dining table, elevating the entire dining experience.

The master bedroom is a true sanctuary, defined by its thoughtful use of natural materials and a soothing color palette. Bespoke millwork continues throughout, adding a sense of warmth and craftsmanship to the space. Every detail was carefully considered to foster relaxation and tranquility, from the selection of soft linens to the gentle lighting scheme. The master bathroom, wrapped in natural stone from floor to ceiling, further enhances this sense of retreat. The seamless application of stone creates a spa-like atmosphere, transforming daily routines into moments of indulgence.

Perhaps the most telling testament to the success of Apogee is the way it has been received by its owners and their guests. Following the completion of the project, the couple hosted an open house, inviting Richard Wagner Studio and their neighbors to celebrate. Their heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude for the space that had been created, underscored the transformative power of thoughtful design. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, this home is a reflection of the people who live in it—a place where they feel truly at ease, where every detail enhances their daily lives. It is a sanctuary, a gathering place, and an expression of their personal style, all seamlessly woven together by the vision of Richard Wagner Studio.

Apogee stands as a testament to the idea that great design is not just about visual impact but about the way a space makes you feel. It is about crafting environments that are both beautiful and deeply personal, spaces that invite you to slow down, to connect, and to truly enjoy the moments spent within them. In this home, every material, every detail, and every thoughtfully placed object tells a story—one of comfort, elegance, and effortless sophistication.