Artfully modern

Mary Ann Benischek's North Augusta condo is decorated in a contemporary, eclectic style, with clean lines and recessed lighting.

The Hammond's Ferry condo was essentially a shell when she bought it, so she picked everything from the cabinets and appliances to the fireplace design. She has lived there since October.

For her kitchen cabinets, she picked slabs of maple and basic silver pulls.

A matte, muted granite is found throughout her condo, from countertops to the master bathroom sink.

"I wanted the look of concrete without paying the price of concrete," she said.

Her living room pops with "fire-engine red" artwork and decor, yet has a minimalist look.

"It's pretty stark, and that was my plan," she said.

She also goes for unique furnishings. "If somebody's got it, I don't want it."

A living room light fixture is made of Italian glass balls. Her artwork ranges from works by Australian photographer Peter Lik to an oil painting from Costa Rica in the master bedroom.

Masks from Florence hung on black silk-backed frames are displayed in the entry hall.

The spare bedroom is adorned with works of her son, David.

Reach Sarah Day Owen at (706) 823-3223 or sarah.owen@augustachronicle.com.