THE URBAN MINIMALIST – The man who appreciates classic designs. He ups the ante with luxurious materials and architectural lines with a devil-may-care attitude.

A black James Perse T-shirt is the perfect update to the Hanes,  paired with the APC Petite Standard Jean and Common Project “Achilles” sneaker.  Our “Urban Uniform” is complete with a signature scent: Fredric Malle’s “Musc Ravageur”. It hits all the right notes but won’t get you confused with the other boys on the block.

At home, create the perfect white envelope with Benjamin Moore Bright White 001. A flat finish on walls and ceilings and semi-gloss on the trim and floors brings just enough detail to the room to keep it interesting, without looking too “decorated”. Whether in a modern high rise or a vintage prewar, this is the quickest way to the look of a downtown loft.

Decorative elements give way to items that actually function: books create end tables, stacked within reach of comfortable chairs. Clothing is hung on rolling racks, the best way to keep them from collecting on the floor in puddles.  A vintage Bakers rack is a great piece to store your collection of Chucks and brogues. This newly minted version from William-Sonoma is a great option. These are tools for living–not your Mother’s decorated mantlepiece.

A graphic punch lightens mood and lends a sophisticated air. The checkerboard rug has become an instant classic. If you’re feeling rich, you can indulge in this via Madeline Weinrib, or if you’re more prone to spilling beer on it and regretting it in the morning, perhaps the Ikea version may be more up your alley. A Stendig Calendar can work in lieu of expensive art, adding a graphic element to your home. Designed in 1966 by Massimo Vignelli, it’s the only calendar in the permanent collection of MOMA, and well worth a place in your home.

With the Urban Traditionalist, it’s all in the details.

Written by Jon Call of MR CALL DESIGNS.

LIFESTYLE

  1. Rolex Explorer II, $6800 2. Maurice Roucel Musc Ravageur, Frederic Malle, $165 3. James Perse Black T-Shirt $50 4. APC New Standard Straight Leg Selvedge Denim Jeans, $175 5. Common Projects Original Achilles Leather Low Top Sneakers, $390 6. Chapstick, $4.99 7. Black Black Japanese Gum, $6.99
THE HOME
  1. Stockholm Rand Rug, Ikea, $299.99  2. Reidar Chair, Ikea, $20.99   3. Benjamin Moore Bright White, Charcoal Black and Ocean Blue 4. Turkish Towers, Shore Collection, Restoration Hardware, $128 and up 5. Ramsey Rolling Rack, Williams-Sonoma, $1450 6. Belgian Classic Roll Arm Slipcovered Chair in Vintage Velvet Indigo, Restoration Hardware, $1,750 8. Day Calendar, Stendig, $40  8. Alex Drawer Unit on Casters, Ikea, $119