Design house: Explore this bright New Jersey townhouse with views over the Hudson river

This modern yet neutral townhouse in New Jersey embodies the vision of its Principal interior designer, Joan Enger, blending clean lines with classic elements to ensure elegant, inviting environments.

We spoke to Joan Enger about the design project.

'After an extensive search, our client decided on this spacious, bright townhouse with stunning views of the Hudson,' says interior designer Joan Enger. 'Although she loved the layout and the views, the space needed updating to match her style.'

'From day one, it was a pleasure to work with this client. We spoke the same creative language and she allowed us to take the lead. When the trust is there from day one, it makes the collaboration effortless. 

'We ended up doing more renovation work than originally intended, adding the entire master suite and basement level to the scope. She was not up for a total kitchen renovation, so we updated the existing kitchen with new marble slab and a custom banquette. 

'We completed the project in less than nine months with great results. Her updated home now fits her stylish lifestyle – we couldn't be happier.'

Read on for insight into how Joan went about creating the finished look – and when you're done, hop over to our page dedicated to the world's best homes for more.

This living room feels light and airy, despite the size of the space, thanks to the its neutral background and muted color scheme. Layering subtle pattern in a similar grey and taupe colour palette keeps the mood laid-back and relaxed, and the simple rug, and circular coffee tables offer areas of calm to balance out the use of pattern 

• See: Design house: a Los Angeles home gets a sophisticated refresh from JDP Interiors

A black-and-white dining room is both elegant and eye-catching. 

This classic combination has seen a recent revival both in  fashion and interiors and can add drama yet refined elegance to a space. Using a calm, dark backdrop will allow lighting and metallic accessories and fittings to sing out and unite the scheme.

In the kitchen, the owner wanted a much more proportionate, harmonious design, with a sociable layout for entertaining. After all, most good parties end in the kitchen.

Bespoke craftsmanship and delicate timbers bring grace and beauty to the kitchen of this serene home. 

Joan has cleverly juxtaposed this elegance with a pair of industrial-style pendant lights from Restoration Hardware.

The team stole some inches from the footprint of the existing to layout to create a dream walk-in closet. 

They opted for dual-level hanging areas, racks for shoes, cabinets for bags, and drawers to keep undergarments, socks and jewellery.

For when space is at a premium, a floating dressing table or shelf is a wonderful idea. The footstool can be nearly tucked away when not in use – all without compromising on style.

Adequate storage can make or break an interior, and in a small shower room, a recessed alcove is a must, especially one as stylish as this.

This marble chevron design is oh so chic.

Interior designer: Joan Enger, J. Patryce Design (opens in new tab)

Photography: Christian Harder