Tour a Traditional-Turned-Timeless Home Renovation in Brooklyn’s Historic Cobble Hill

Rip & Tan: In your own words, what are some of the defining qualities of a Akkari Muqaddas interior?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: I like to think the spaces we create are first and foremost designed with a clever floor plan in mind. It always starts with a thoroughly studied layout that defines a space that’s not only unique and beautiful, but where elements are proportionate, functional, and user friendly. In terms of aesthetics, we follow a ‘warm minimalist’ approach where we like to strip down the space to its core yet preserve any elements that may complement the spatial narrative.

Rip & Tan: This space was quite the transformation—can you walk us through your approach and process? What differences between the before and the completed project feel most striking to you?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: Our design process always starts with two things: understanding our clients desires/taste and the concept/narrative of the project. In the case of the Amity Project, it was a little different—the apartment was to be sold soon after completion. That pushed us to understand and dig deeper into the New York real estate market by pinning down our target audience. No matter what there’s a “Who we are designing for?” and “What are we trying to convey?”

Rip & Tan: What are some of your tips for mixing modern style sensibilities with classical design elements?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: Our tip would be to not be scared to mix different styles and inspirations as long as it feels right.

Also, there is an element of letting go of the notion of having to ‘match’ everything… If proportions and material palettes feel good, that’s what is most important.

Rip & Tan: Whether it’s a particular finish or bit of décor, can you go into some of your favorite details in this space? Where did you source them, and how did you decide where to use them?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: We are in love with how the kitchen turned out! We really wanted to use a brushed aluminum finish and pair it with a veiny marble to warm it up. We always like to contrast colder materials with warmer ones and create this balance. The kitchen is from Reform Cph.

Other details such as the framing of the arches in the living room turned out really nice or the framing of the master bathroom door in marble added a fun and sophisticated touch.

Rip & Tan: In terms of scale, what kind of projects do you find most exciting?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: No matter the scale, what’s most exciting to us is to be fully involved from the beginning to the end of the project. From the architecture to the furniture to the staging and decor. Even on our hospitality projects, art direction and a greater understanding of the concept behind the brand allows us to create more than just a space, but an experience.

Rip & Tan: How does good design seek to “enhance human experience?”

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: It starts with a clever layout and a design for comfort, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. It’s made to be as functional as beautiful! In terms of finishings and decor, it’s also about finding the right harmony to create a soothing space by studying proportions, color palettes, materials, and lighting.

Rip & Tan: What’s your secret to achieving warmth through minimalism?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: Sleek materials, and simple and minimal details. We don’t like to complicate details—simple is key when it’s well crafted. We focus on raw authentic materials that can sometimes be unexpected and well-studied construction details executed by great craftsmen. The warmth comes in by juxtaposing warmer materials with colder ones, creating that tension. Off-white and beige wall colors, different wood grains and colors and introducing more plush materials, such as fabrics, bring texture and depth to a space that is there to welcome it.

Rip & Tan: Interiors or otherwise, what’s inspiring you lately?

Selma Akkari and Rawan Muqaddas: We’re consistently trying to see new work and interior showrooms—anything we’re able to see in person has such a different feel.

We visited Radnor showroom in New York and Invisible Collection showroom both in Paris and New York and all three were so carefully curated—you really felt the love for design come through the amazing craftsmanship of their furniture and spaces.