Designer Shapshot: Opposites Attract

By Paula Bodah

On his website, Michael Cebula says, “It gives me great satisfaction to combine seemingly unharmonious elements into something that looks absolutely wonderful.â€

I thought it would be fun to see a few examples of rooms where Michael brought together design elements that, in the hands of a lesser talent, might seem discordant. As you’ll see, the results are delightfully harmonious. Michael was a featured designer in our January/February Perspectives department, showing us some of his favorite products for the master bedroom.

“In this master bathroom, ornate eighteenth-century Georgian mirrors were selected as a deliberate juxtaposition to the stark and modern atmosphere created by matching cubic vanities and a bathtub fashioned out of a solid piece of travertine.â€

Photos by Mike Rixon, Rixon Photography, courtesy of Cebula Design

“The client desired an Old World atmosphere combined with a youthful energy. In the hallway, we met that wish by bringing together a contemporary painting with an antique Italian console and sconces.â€

“This modern Manhattan loft boasts exposed brick walls and sleek, black-lacquered furniture with neutral upholstery. However, the luxurious silk drapery, oriental carpet and infusion of coral provide unexpected balance to the urban space.â€