Creative direction for the expansion of Philly institution White Dog Cafe
We were inspired by the Victorian-era building, and you see that in the crazy patterned wallpapers [and] the use of elaborate fringes, trims, and tassels. We were going after that feeling of residential authenticity that comes from these Philadelphia rowhouses. There’s a comfort and warmth that transitions well from day to night.
Finding harmony
There’s a real balance of masculine and feminine on both levels. The banquette backs upstairs are covered in navy blue leather to offset the pillows and tassels, and downstairs, the florals are interspersed with the heavier scrollwork. We’re into vintage, so we wanted to incorporate some of the dog paintings and imagery.
Favorite moments
The soft layers, warm colors, eclectic furnishings, and accessories add the feeling of a personal touch—the kind you truly only experience in one’s home after a lifetime of collecting and curating.
Paw patrol
The owners were insistent on an element of whimsy, and that came forward in the last five percent of the project, when we added in dog-related touches.
