Meanwhile, heavier furnishings and graphic artworks establish a sense of groundedness throughout the space. Vintage beechwood Gijs Bakker for Castelijn dining chairs, a vintage credenza and coffee table, and a pair of vintage Jack Cartwright for Founders dressers utilized as nightstands all add weight and dimension with their darker hues and solid forms. The large format Wade Guyten print, hanging between the dining and living areas, unifies the loft both in its in-between placement and its juxtaposition of tone. “It’s the inspiration for the whole apartment,” Walterhoefer says. “I’ve had it for years, stashed away in a folder in New York, because I never had a wall that was big enough. When I decided to redo this place, it was finally my chance, so I made it the centerpiece.” A geometric rug by Rug & Kilim in the living room and custom-designed floating shelves add more structural lines.
Instead of renovating the kitchen, bathroom, or flooring, Walterhoefer chose to make greater investments in his furniture and art. While he made minor upgrades to paint and hardware, he decided the rest was utilitarian enough for now, keeping the attention on the heart of the home’s living domain—for work, lounge, and play.
Now, the designer has a space to develop professional and personal roots in South Florida. “It’s funny,” Walterhoefer says. “Before, there were so many things that drove me nuts about Miami. Coming back now, I’m really appreciating the focus on well-being and the outdoors much more. Plus,” he goes on, “there could be an opening here for a designer like me.”