PROJECT REVEAL: THE LINDLEY A LUXURIOUS RETREAT IN THE SKY

When we collaborated with The Lindley, a luxury residence in San Diego's Little Italy, to style a design-challenged model unit, we saw a chance to redefine the concept of model home design. Instead of the typical “here’s a sofa, here’s a coffee table” staged look, we set out to create a space that felt truly residential — a home someone could instantly imagine themselves living in.

We approached The Lindley the same way we approach every private client—by prioritizing scale, comfort, and, most importantly…artistic expression. But before the magic could happen, we had to plan.

We started with a tour of the condos, boldly requesting their most challenging units. Why? Because we know not everyone can visualize the potential in a tricky space—but that’s exactly where we thrive.

Then, we met with our partners at Hold It Home and Nativa Interiors to comb through their available inventory. I had already pulled together initial concept boards, but the moment I spotted two incredible pieces of art—both drenched in the most stunning, vibrant blue—it was game over. Those pieces became my North Star, and everything else fell effortlessly into place.

From there, the furniture plan and styling direction came together like a perfectly choreographed dance. Here’s a peek at my inspiration boards and the layout that brought it all to life.

Shall we snoop around this condo? I’m already halfway in the door—let’s go!

In the entry, we went big—oversized art big. Girl with Peonies and Bird by Ukrainian artist Elina Zelena is the kind of piece that stops you in your tracks… and believe me, it did. During installation, every passerby paused mid-stride to ask about it. Instant conversation starter. Zero regrets.

The living room is having its own art moment. Flower Head by Elina Zelena commands attention, while over the sofa hangs a striking purple abstract by one of my favorite artist-turned-friends, Kelly O’Neal—the one with the bold, colorful showroom called Design Legacy that I make a beeline for the moment I hit High Point Market. For the furnishings, we went modern and sculptural, layered in tonal textures, and added just the right pops of color. The result? A space that’s warm, lived-in, and brimming with intention.

This curated approach blurs the line between a model unit and a real home, speaking directly to a discerning leasee who values good design, elevated comfort, and a little bit of wow factor.

The Primary Bedroom: Lifestyle Over Floor Space

Most staging pros in small condos default to small-scale furniture in the hope of making the room feel bigger. But here’s the truth: you can’t change a room’s square footage, but you can change its perceived scale. And nothing says “lifestyle” quite like a proper king bed. In my experience, very few couples actually sleep in a queen, so showcasing a king in The Lindley’s primary bedroom wasn’t just a design choice — it was a lifestyle statement.

This project's no-paint, no-wallpaper policy meant the furniture, art, and accessories had to carry the personality. We made the bed the undeniable focal point with an oversized, modern blue upholstered headboard — a saturated pop of color that instantly brought presence and luxury to the room.

Minimal, Impactful, and Bold

Rather than cluttering the space with multiple small pieces, we leaned into our less, but make it impactful philosophy:

• Streamlined nightstands that delivered storage without visual bulk.

• Textured bedding for a layered, luxe feel.

• Large-scale artwork to expand the walls visually.

• A sculptural plant to add an organic touch and soften the lines.

• A statement-making blue metal flower in the hallway for a bold, cohesive thread between spaces.

This approach isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about psychology. Larger pieces trick the eye into reading the space as more expansive, while curated restraint creates a sense of intention and luxury.

The Closet & Ensuite: Style in the Details

We treated the closet as its own moment, styling it with a vibrant patterned rug underfoot and hanging colorful silk kimonos — a playful, unexpected detail that suggested the life of a stylish, well-traveled resident.

In the ensuite bathroom, we echoed the bedroom’s palette with blue accents — plush towels, curated accessories, and artful touches — bringing a sense of cohesion and intention to every corner of the home.

The Kitchen: Art Meets Comfort

The kitchen was styled with sculptural glass vessels that added a layer of artistry to the space, paired with comfortable blue swivel counter stools that brought both a hit of color and an inviting, conversational place to sit. It’s a perfect balance of form and function — elevated, yet approachable.

A New Standard for Model Unit Design

What we achieved at The Lindley goes far beyond traditional staging. We proved that model units can be soulful, bold, and deeply personal—an artistic statement that resonates with the right audience. This project allowed us to bring our signature Modern Global Maximalism into a multifamily setting, showing that rental living doesn't have to be cookie-cutter beige.

In the end, this "design-challenged" unit became a luxurious retreat in the sky—proof that with the right vision, scale, and artistry, any space can tell a compelling story.

This project was brought to life by the vision of Michelle Harrison McCallister, in close partnership with Hold It Home and Nativa Interiors—who provided the beautiful furnishings and logistics. We're so grateful for their collaboration and expertise.

The best part? You can shop every piece featured in this design at their stores: Hold It Home (Mission Valley) or Nativa Interiors (La Jolla / Solana Beach).

Meet & Greet

We're excited to celebrate our recent design collaboration at The Lindley with a special Meet + Greet Mixer later this month. This is a chance to step inside the model units, meet the creative team, and see how we turned a design challenge into a luxurious retreat in the sky.

This project proves that model units don't have to be basic or beige. We hope it encourages developers, property managers, and fellow designers to rethink traditional staging and embrace spaces that are bold, personal, and tell a compelling story.

Inspired to create your own luxurious retreat? From bold artistic statements to serene, livable spaces, we design interiors that are as individual as you are. Let’s start your next project.