THE LAUREL, RITTENHOUSE 2

Philadelphia, PA

Elevated Living at The Laurel, Rittenhouse

In This Home

An Entertainment System That Belongs to the Space

Rather than mounting a television on the wall, the art TV was recessed into custom millwork and paired with a matching Leon soundbar, transforming the display into a built-in design feature. All wiring and equipment are fully concealed—allowing the wall to read as one continuous architectural surface. The result: technology that’s present when you want it, invisible when you don’t.

Heritage Aesthetics, Intuitive Control

Lighting and shading in the main living areas is controlled through Lutron Palladiom keypads in polished brass, providing one-touch access to preset scenes such as Home and Away. These keypads were intentionally selected as part of the design palette, functioning as both intuitive control points and refined architectural details.

In the primary suite, the control experience shifts to a more classic expression. Forbes & Lomax toggle switches—selected for their old-world charm and satisfying click—control both the lighting and the motorized shades and drapery. Though they appear timeless, they are fully integrated into the Lutron HomeWorks system. With one simple toggle, the drapery closes, the shades lower, and the lights transition to a warm evening glow—delivering full-room automation through a control that feels crafted, not digital.

To maintain visual purity throughout the home, select outlets were installed using Trufig platforms, allowing them to sit perfectly flush with surrounding surfaces and virtually disappear into the architecture.

Architectural Downlights and Lighting Design

This residence features a custom lighting plan centered around DMF warm-dim fixtures with trimless 3-inch aperture downlights. These fixtures provide soft, glare-free illumination and increase in warmth as they dim, creating a calming evening glow that enhances both atmosphere and comfort.

Rather than relying on a generic grid layout, the lighting plan was intentionally designed to match the furniture plan and flow of the home. Fixtures are aligned with seating areas, artwork, and pathways—illuminating what matters while preserving architectural intent. Layered scenes support everyday living, hosting guests, and winding down at night, all controlled through elegantly designed wall keypads or fully automated settings. The lighting doesn’t just brighten the space—it defines the experience of it.

Recessed Shades and Drapery

The home’s expansive windows are outfitted with motorized shades and drapery recessed into mud-in ceiling pockets, allowing all hardware to be completely concealed. Without visible tracks or rollers, the treatments disappear into the ceiling when open, preserving uninterrupted views of the city.

When closed, the shades provide softly filtered daylight or full blackout conditions, enhancing privacy and comfort. Drapery is motorized as well, moving into place to introduce softness and luxury. Fully integrated with the Lutron system, the shades and drapery operate in coordination with the lighting scenes—transforming the space with one touch while maintaining a clean architectural aesthetic.