In the heart of the East Valley, a striking new home redefines modern luxury with its bold, moody aesthetic. Designed by AJ Design Studio and built by Matt and Kelly Segerstrom of Modern Splendor Homes, with Brian Padilla as the project manager, this custom residence embraces deep tones, rich textures, and dramatic contrasts to create an elegant yet inviting atmosphere.
The #MakeItMoody project proves that dark, sophisticated design can be both timeless and livable. From the moment you step inside, the home captivates with its rich color palette, luxurious materials, and thoughtfully designed spaces that seamlessly balance drama and warmth.
A vision in moody elegance
“The #MakeItMoody aesthetic is characterized by a bold, dramatic, and atmospheric design approach,” says Kelly. “This home is a perfect blend of modern minimalism, luxury, and cultural influences, resulting in a space that is both elegant and personal.”
Throughout the home, a carefully curated palette of deep hues—charcoal, espresso, and midnight blue—sets a striking backdrop for plush furnishings, metallic accents, and statement lighting. Clean architectural lines and open layouts ensure that the darker tones never feel heavy, while natural light filters through expansive glass panels, softening the overall ambiance.
The bold design choices create a rich, immersive environment that feels simultaneously high-end and comfortable. Deeply pigmented walls contrast with sleek stone countertops, while textured elements such as leather, wood, and brushed metal add depth and sophistication.
A design that tells a story
One of the most compelling aspects of the #MakeItMoody home is its seamless balance of bold design elements with meaningful, artistic touches.
“We wanted this space to reflect not only sophistication but also the homeowner’s personality,” says Kelly. A striking "Om" artwork anchors the living space, accompanied by carefully curated sculptures and metallic finishes that add depth and character. The result is a home that is not only visually stunning but also deeply personal.
The home’s indoor-outdoor connection is another standout feature. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels open to the surrounding landscape, bringing in natural elements and enhancing the warm, earthy undertones of the interior. This seamless integration with nature allows the home to feel expansive and airy, despite its moody palette.
Luxurious materials—stone, textured surfaces, and brushed metal—add layers of refinement, creating an environment that feels both cozy and high-end. The home’s lighting design plays a key role in enhancing its moody aesthetic, with layered fixtures that create warmth and depth.
From a stunning catwalk to intricate custom metalwork, the #MakeItMoody home is filled with design details that make it a work of livable art.
“The unique metalwork, bold color choices, and the open living space are some of the standout features of this home,” Kelly says.
The kitchen is a showpiece of modern functionality and a statement chandelier in the dining area adds a touch of old-world glamour, while the master suite offers a tranquil escape, wrapped in deep tones with luxurious layered textures.
The #MakeItMoody project is a testament to the power of fearless design. By embracing dramatic contrasts, layered lighting, and rich textures, the home is both bold and deeply inviting.
“Every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a space that feels dramatic yet livable,” Kelly concludes.
“This home is a perfect blend of modern minimalism, luxury, and cultural influences, resulting in a space that is both elegant and personal.”—Kelly Segerstrom