Linea

Client: Portman Holdings

Linea is a 24-story contemporary, luxury residential building with 370 units in Charlotte's historic and vibrant South End district. Linea is not only located in the center of South End, but it is also connected directly to the Charlotte Rail Trail and LYNX Blue Line, providing easy access from anywhere in the city.

Linea's experience begins outside the building at the retail and restaurants, which are open to the public and located within an expansive public plaza. This experience continues into the lobby, which also has a lounge and cafe for residents to enjoy. For our firm, the challenge was to balance bold design with South End’s industrial heritage in the textile industry.

Our team used bespoke features, such as custom millwork, furniture, lighting and art installations as signature expressions of textile manufacturing. The lobby's focal point is a three-dimensional woven art piece, created by local artist Kenny Nguyen, and is complemented with an organic furniture arrangement in soothing sage green tones that is emphasized with a custom light fixture.

The selection of colors and textures used in the interiors is inspired by the South End’s history in textile manufacturing, as well as its present-day standing as a creative hub. The area’s industrial character was translated into luxurious architectural language defined by soft curves and refined detailing. Warm neutral base interior materials, concrete blackened metal and walnut wood were chosen for both symbolic and functional value and are complemented with vivid colors in the art moments, creating a collective experience from exterior into interior.

Materials and craftsmanship that reflect Charlotte’s railroad history, such as gun metal steel and southeastern neutral pallets, play a critical role in conveying quality and authenticity. Custom elements, signature details and integrated wayfinding further strengthen brand recognition while enhancing usability and clarity and reflecting the surrounding environment.

Our firm designed Linea's interior space with the intent to connect people to a sense of place, combining architecture and local heritage into a collective and elevated experience. The project thoughtfully weaves urban textures and handcrafted elements into each space.

Within the 370 units, versatile layouts, saturated color palettes and custom nooks support modern living while optimizing space, providing work-from-home capabilities. Accessories baked into the overall theme enhance everyday life. Amenities such as the multi-faceted game room and sky lounge are intentionally designed for gathering and hosting events, strengthening social interaction and connection.

By integrating local inspiration and flexible design, our firm elevates Linea's space with long-lasting materials and environmental value. This approach creates an interior that provides a lasting connection for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.