'Brotherly Love'

Show some brotherly love to designer duo Gregory Augustine and Jenise Pencek.

The designers from the Philadelphia-based August Interiors firm are defying the limits of any space; whether it be converting an abandoned industrial space into an office, or a cluttered bedroom into a stylish retreat. Home decorating channel HGTV.com lists several examples of Augustine’s work in the “Designers’ Portfolio: Great spaces, great style from HGTV’s top designers.”

Augustine and Pencek’s approach is one of research, creative expression and functionality. According to the team, “We expand [our clients] design horizons by introducing them to new concepts and materials and execute their dreams using our extensive network of craftsman.”

By combining new and old design concepts, August Interiors is able to transform a rather common corner of a bedroom into a comfortable and interesting seating area. The creams and chocolate color palette is often used because of its warmth and modernity. Notice how artwork is hung below the window – an unlikely place but placed perfectly at eye level for the person seated.

Augustine used a building’s industrial beginnings as a springboard to design an eccentric, but practical workplace. Parts of the white brick walls are left intact and a gray hue is adopted for the other walls. A bright fuchsia recliner is stationed in the middle. A gray mechanical painting on one wall compliments a collage of industrial knick-knacks beside it.

Given the difficult task of remodeling a teen’s bedroom in historic Old City in Philadelphia, the duo mastered the challenge. Their signature collage using various materials and a funky border beats buying the standard bulletin board. The pleating in the bedspread is luxurious and match the white flowers beyond the curtains. The curtains, while whimsical, create privacy.

What makes Augustine and Pencek a duo to watch is that their designs are so clean and structured, yet original. Every fixture and piece of furniture appears to have been selected for its uniqueness. And even with unusual shapes and structures, every space exercises control.

With each glance at the décor, you can’t help but the Philadelphia love bug.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of August Interiors