While the buzzy new Residences at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel were being constructed, our clients purchased a penthouse unit, in a completely unfinished interior condition. We were allowed to reconfigure the space to fit their empty nester needs, as well as their stylistic desires in the modern high- rise building. Coming from a traditional suburban home, we wanted to provide them with a comfortable, warm but clearly modernist feel, and looked to the traditional residential interiors of Japan for inspiration. The use of warm but light wood, horizontal line, light texture, minimal decoration, and framed wall panels creates a refined home yet isn’t out of place in this style building. Subtle but carefully curated wood grains, wall coverings and finishes were utilized to provide soothing but complex detail.