Layered Lives: 'You can walk into a lot of beautiful spaces, but they’re not fun. That’s not the world I want to run in. Give me more fun' – inside the eclectic world of Robert Novogratz

The article introduces Robert Novogratz, a renowned American designer, known for his eclectic and personality-filled approach to interior design over three decades. As one half of The Novogratz, he emphasizes creating spaces that are fun and functional, rather than just aesthetically pleasing. His design philosophy is explored through an interview where he discusses his career trajectory, artistic influences, and renovation projects. Novogratz's journey into design began with an art background and an early passion for collecting, inherited from his antique-dealer mother. He highlights the importance of appreciating and understanding art, mentioning his preference for modern and contemporary artists, including young and Black artists like Glenn Ligon, Kehinde Wiley, and Danny Fox. He also notes his appreciation for affordable art from artists like Jimmy Lee Sudduth. This passion for art informs his selection of unique pieces that contribute to the layered and personalized feel of his interiors. His career pivot from finance to design was sparked by a desire for a more fulfilling life in New York. His first renovation project, a run-down townhouse in Chelsea, though challenging, solidified his love for transforming spaces. This early experience, constrained by a tight budget, ingrained in him the value of thoughtful design decisions and a willingness to embrace color, evident in his choice to paint the classic brownstone a pale yellow. He also reminisces about incorporating vintage elements like tiles and doorknobs, a practice he wishes to reintroduce. Among his most rewarding projects, Novogratz cites the Nolita townhouse, which allowed for expansive creativity, including the unconventional addition of a basketball court on the roof. The Waverly Place house in New York’s West Village, despite being a challenging three-year renovation during Covid, is highlighted as a space that successfully captured a desirable “vibe.” He defines this “vibe” as an energetic, comfortable space that caters to various social situations, drawing parallels to the atmosphere of establishments like Balthazar restaurant with its warm, yellow hues. Novogratz accepts the label of “design disruptor” because his distinctive aesthetic differentiates him from others. He describes his signature style as eclectic, blending vintage and modern elements, always aiming for happiness, comfort, and most importantly, fun. He expresses a dislike for overly sterile, all-white spaces, advocating for a more joyful approach. The article also touches upon his current living situation in a Union Square loft, which he views as a temporary, transitional space near what was Andy Warhol’s Factory. He describes it as a place he made cool by focusing on art and appreciating the city views from the terrace. His personal rituals, such as listening to jazz with hot water and lemon, offer insight into his lifestyle. He also shares a recent experience helping his musician son decorate his New York apartment, emphasizing that creating a homely space doesn't always require significant expense. Novogratz's ongoing collecting habits, fueled by platforms like eBay and 1stDibs, demonstrate his continuous search for unique pieces, including vintage prints. He is currently working on designing a house in Brooklyn that will serve as a family-friendly private club with a “Soho House vibe,” underscoring his commitment to creating engaging and enjoyable environments. Ultimately, Robert Novogratz's design philosophy centers on optimism, creativity, and curiosity, illustrating that good design is about personality, soul, and a sense of fun. #InteriorDesign #RobertNovogratz #DesignPhilosophy #EclecticStyle #HomeRenovation #ArtCollection #NewYorkDesign #VintageModernMix #LayeredLives #InteriorDesign #RobertNovogratz #DesignPhilosophy #EclecticStyle #HomeRenovation #ArtCollection #NewYorkDesign #VintageModernMix #LayeredLives