Upon their initial meeting, Benjamin Vandiver had minimal design guidance from the owner of a circa-1900 SoHo loft, who, at the time, was a bachelor relocating from San Francisco to New York City with just a few tees and jeans. The client expressed a desire for a home where guests could feel comfortable and be themselves. This sentiment resonated with Vandiver, setting the tone for the design direction.
To evoke the desired warm and character-filled ambiance, Benjamin Vandiver recognized that an array of brand-new contemporary furnishings wouldn’t suffice. Proposing a unique approach, Vandiver took the client on a shopping excursion to Paris, particularly the flea market. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, the client became engrossed in the origin stories of various pieces, marking a significant moment where his interest in collecting was ignited. Approximately 85 percent of the loft’s furnishings were acquired during this Parisian shopping spree.
Benjamin Vandiver approached the task of deciding what to keep and what to change with practicality and a systematic mindset. His goal was to preserve as much as possible while aligning with the homeowner’s desire for a warm ambiance. Contrary to the initial plan of a complete kitchen overhaul, Vandiver saw potential in the existing space and was determined to find a solution.
“The kitchen was impressive—someone decided on a maritime theme and really went for it,” he comments on the black lacquered cabinetry. Instead of a major transformation, Vandiver opted for strategic enhancements. The floors were stripped, a rug was introduced, and the banquette was reupholstered with textiles sourced from a vendor selling various items out of his van in SoHo. Vandiver appreciates the juxtaposition of hard-to-find collectibles with sidewalk discoveries, adding a unique character to the space.
In the primary bedroom of the apartment, an unexpected delight awaits with a checkerboard pattern of reclaimed Spanish tiles creating a striking backdrop for a French settee. Benjamin Vandiver intentionally designed this space to feel more like a snug nook than a traditional bedroom. The unique atmosphere draws people in, making it a popular gathering spot during parties. In a loft with an open layout, Vandiver emphasizes the importance of establishing multiple destinations. An initial home office transformed into a moody, smoky-green salon, offering yet another inviting space for intimate conversations or a relaxed evening with a drink and some music.
