Interiors: Michael Grundleger & TJ Karl - A Contemporary Oasis

Our regular Interiors features take a look through the keyhole into the homes of some of Shanghai's well known faces. 

When Michael Grundleger and his husband TJ Karl first stepped into their current home three years ago, the place was no more than a pile of plaster and rubble. Seeing potential among the dust and dirt, they had the entire space – a two-story house off Nanjing Xi Lu – completely renovated according to their taste, and adapted to suit their needs. The result is an impeccably furnished pad that’s both elegant and cozy – a perfect nest for the couple and their two Labradors.

The house has been decorated in a contemporary chic style. The couple’s intent was to create a simple, pared-back home that would accommodate their collection of art, travel mementos and family photos.

Grundleger and Karl with their ‘girls,’ Piper and Zoey.

A lush outdoor area decked in wooden floors, pebbles and rocks welcomes visitors upon entering the property.

From the floors to the ceilings, wood is a predominant element in the house. A palette of soft grays and browns makes the most of the space’s varied woodwork and the different textures in each and every room.

Although an interior design firm took care of renovations – which only took two months - the couple chose all the fixtures and furniture. “We tried to purchase mostly design or antique pieces,” says Grundleger, who is an architect, “using the occasional Ikea item here and there.”

A view of the dining area from the kitchen reveals a seamlessly geometrical order to the house décor and structure.

From a small but perfectly equipped bar counter, softly lit wooden stairs take to the couple’s bedroom on the second floor. 

Minimal and modernist, the bedroom is sun-filled and incredibly bright. A huge mirror facing a fitted wardrobe bounces light back into the room, giving the space an expansive feel.

A green oasis in the middle of Jing’an, the garden is where the couple and their dogs spend most summer days. We would too.

// To see other interiors features, click here. Photos by Darrell Lew