Check Out This Brooklyn Hotel's Dramatic Living Wall Installation

Ilan Cohen, a finance professional and avid art collector, transformed his Manhattan Chelsea apartment into a museum-worthy space designed by the architecture and interiors studio BoND. Cohen's collecting journey began in 2009, evolving from buying any contemporary work to cultivating a distinct personal taste, influenced by artists like TM Davy. His collection, which includes over 45 pieces on the main salon wall and approximately 100 artworks throughout the apartment, features works by artists such as Nash Glynn, Jonathan Lyndon Chase, Louis Fratino, and Mark McNight. BoND, founded by Noam Dvir and Daniel Rauchwerger, had previously collaborated with Cohen on his modernist beach house in Fire Island. For the Chelsea loft, the challenge was to create a space that not only reflected Cohen's personal history and extensive art collection but also provided room for its continued growth and appreciation. Cohen was already familiar with the building's structure, having lived in another unit there in the early 2000s, and recognized the apartment's potential upon his initial viewing with Dvir and Rauchwerger. The project, which commenced in late 2021, involved reorienting the apartment's simple rectangular main living area to maximize natural light and integrate functional elements without compromising wall space dedicated to art. Inspired by Donald Judd's minimalist aesthetic, the designers implemented built-in furniture pieces and maintained a restrained material and color palette. A key design principle was to keep all furniture 36 inches tall or under, a deliberate choice by Rauchwerger to ensure that the eye level remained completely open, allowing unobstructed views of the artworks. The dining area, for instance, features a custom square dining table fabricated by Bill Zuerlein, complemented by Room & Board chairs, with artworks by Johnathan Lyndon Chase, Salman Toor, and Alex Olson adorning the walls. Cohen himself plays an active role in arranging his collection, often experimenting with multiple layouts before settling on a final display, stating that the fourth or fifth iteration typically sticks. This apartment serves as a testament to living with art, where the design thoughtfully supports and enhances a significant personal collection, transforming a residence into a dynamic gallery space. #ArtCollector #NewYorkLoft #BoNDArchitects #InteriorDesign #ArtCollectionDisplay #DonaldJuddInfluence #ChelseaApartment #ModernLiving #SpaceOptimization

Kimberly Awad, a tech professional in New York City, meticulously sought out a unique living space after 12 years in the city, transitioning from a modern high-rise to a Brooklyn loft with character. Her search on StreetEasy utilized keywords such as 'loft,' 'exposed beams,' 'exposed brick,' 'industrial,' and 'high ceilings,' leading her to the perfect unit which she secured on the same day as her initial viewing. This studio apartment, spanning 900 to 1,000 square feet, is situated across the East River in Brooklyn. The defining features of Kimberly's loft are its impressive 15-foot ceilings and expansive walls, which she envisions as a canvas for a growing art collection. To complement this gallery-like aesthetic, she has opted for a minimalist approach, keeping the walls white and selecting low, neutral-toned furniture. A significant design element in her home is a 12-foot Audrey Ficus tree, a striking plant that often leads guests to question its authenticity. Her furniture choices include a secondhand white linen Restoration Hardware Cloud sofa and a white linen Soft Frame Designs bed, both chosen for their quality materials and harmonious visual flow. While the loft largely met Kimberly's criteria, the kitchen initially presented a design challenge with its orange subway tiles. Rather than replacing them, she embraced the existing color scheme by painting the kitchen walls in a similar shade, Farrow & Ball's Dutch Orange, with plans to add a third coat. The kitchen features a substantial 6-foot-wide solid wood slab table from Burke Decor, which serves dual purposes as a workspace for her two to three days a week of remote work and as a gathering spot for weekend hosting. She prioritizes a well-stocked bar and an updated Spotify playlist for entertaining. Kimberly's home reflects her personality, which she describes as akin to a Libra: embodying romantic details, an aesthetically pleasing environment, and serving as a social hub for friends and laughter. She maintains a strict 'shoes off, no bad vibes, speak nicely to Audrey (the tree)' policy within her home. Despite being a single-room studio, Kimberly perceives the space as well-distributed, with the bed feeling sufficiently separate from the kitchen and entry areas. The loft also boasts ample storage, which Kimberly humorously refers to as her home's 'dirty secret.' Future plans include upgrading the bathroom. The inspiration for starting her art collection came from the previous tenant, an artist whose work was displayed throughout the loft, from whom Kimberly even purchased a piece. #BrooklynLoft #HighCeilings #IndustrialDesign #InteriorDecor #HomeStyling #ArtCollection #KitchenRenovation #SpaceUtilization #NewYorkLiving

The Philadelphia-based designer, Michelle Gage, and her husband, Alex, embarked on a search for their forever home, which led them to a 1927 fixer-upper in the Villanova neighborhood. The couple prioritized a comprehensive renovation, even if it meant a phased approach, ensuring no aspect of the design was compromised. Gage, known for her bold design choices, has transformed the house with elements like vibrant wallpaper and extensive gallery walls, creating an art-filled retreat. One significant lesson learned from their previous renovation was the value of outsourcing wisely. While they tackled certain tasks like framing walls for built-ins, they strategically hired professionals for detailed finishes, recognizing that time is money in such projects. This approach allowed them to manage the renovation effectively, combining DIY efforts with expert assistance where needed. A standout feature of Gage's home is the expansive gallery wall in the living room, which she meticulously curated. Her method involved starting with a substantial collection of art pieces, emphasizing that a diverse range of items is essential for creating an impactful display of this scale. Gage prefers an organic arrangement, maintaining approximately two inches between each piece for visual coherence. She typically begins the installation from the center of the wall and expands outward, allowing the display to evolve naturally. Nostalgia plays a crucial role in Gage's aesthetic. A prime example is a vintage blue writing desk, discovered in her childhood home's basement, which she restored and prominently features in her living room. Despite its initial neglected state, the desk holds significant sentimental value and now serves as a focal point, symbolizing her personal connection to her decor choices. This personal touch infuses the home with unique character and history. Gage's approach to selecting decor, particularly wallpaper, involves careful editing before shopping. She seeks sophisticated yet playful designs, acknowledging the abundance of less desirable options. For instance, the dining room, benefiting from ample natural light, features a whimsical monkey-dotted citrus motif wallpaper. In contrast, her studio, with stone walls, is painted, as she believes wallpaper does not complement stone surfaces effectively. This discernment ensures each space is adorned with appropriate and appealing finishes. Her office is designed as a vibrant and inspiring workspace. Gage incorporated playful shades of blue and pink to create an inviting atmosphere, emphasizing that a workspace should never be boring given its daily use. The studio is configured to accommodate swatches, meetings, and mood boards, providing an ideal environment for a designer. This thoughtful design ensures functionality is met with aesthetic appeal, fostering creativity and productivity. #HomeDesign #GalleryWalls #InteriorDesign #Renovation #FixerUpper #DesignInspiration #PersonalStyle #VintageDecor

Interior designer Luna Grey transformed a 600-square-foot one-bedroom rental in a prewar Brooklyn building for a young couple, creating a romantic and bohemian aesthetic. The clients, who were about to get married, expressed a desire for a space reminiscent of an Anthropologie catalog, which Grey interpreted as a call for romantic and bohemian decor. The project involved furnishing and styling the entire apartment, with an approximate budget of $18,000, covering all furniture, lighting, rugs, window treatments, art, and accessories. The entire process, from initial consultation to completion, took about three months. The designer utilized online shopping extensively, with virtually all new items procured from various e-commerce platforms. The couple's only existing pieces were a tall wooden dresser and a gilded mirror, both incorporated into the bedroom design. For the living/dining area, an extra-deep Maxwell sofa from Interior Define serves as the focal point, complemented by nested coffee tables from Willa Arlo Interiors (sourced via Wayfair and AllModern). A colorful Moroccan rag rug, discovered on Etsy, adds warmth and texture to the space. Lighting includes a flush mount ceiling fixture from Rejuvenation and a Miles Tripod floor lamp from Pottery Barn. A significant element of the living room is a thoughtfully curated gallery wall, featuring art acquired from online retailers such as One Kings Lane and Artfully Walls. Decorative pillows from Etsy and Anthropologie further enhance the bohemian feel. Window treatments consist of layered bamboo shades and sheer linen curtains, hung floor to ceiling to create an illusion of height and softness. The dining area features a table from West Elm and Madeleine chairs from Restoration Hardware. A metal and glass bar cart from Hayneedle and shelves from Ballard Designs complete this section of the apartment. The bedroom continues the layered and textured theme. An intricately carved Maharaja headboard from Home Decorators (available through Home Depot) creates a statement. A white dressing table and a wide dresser from Restoration Hardware's Baby and Child department were chosen to complement the serene atmosphere. The Fela Tassel chandelier, designed by Justina Blakeney and available from Anthropologie and other online sources, adds a distinctive touch. Other bedroom furnishings, including table lamps, a nightstand, and a bed platform, were sourced from Pottery Barn and West Elm, along with a Moroccan rug. Throughout the apartment, the strategic use of layered textiles, diverse materials, and a blend of online sources allowed for the creation of a cohesive and personalized bohemian living space. #InteriorDesign #BohemianDecor #BrooklynHeights #RentalApartment #OnlineShopping #GalleryWall #TextileLayering #LunaGrey #HomeRenovation

New York City lofts have a rich history, transitioning from industrial warehouses and manufacturing centers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries into desirable residential spaces. These structures were characterized by high ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows, originally designed to maximize natural light for industrial purposes. By the mid-20th century, as industries relocated from Manhattan, artists and creatives began to repurpose these buildings into versatile living and working environments. Today, lofts represent a fusion of historical character and contemporary design, offering a flexible foundation for innovative renovations. One such renovation project was undertaken by BOND, a design studio led by Noam Dvir and Daniel Rauchwerger. Their task was to revitalize a 1,000-square-foot Tribeca Loft situated within a landmarked New York City building. The goal was to preserve the loft's industrial heritage while integrating a modern, bright aesthetic. This particular loft had remained largely unaltered since the 1980s, necessitating a comprehensive update to accommodate contemporary living standards. BOND's approach emphasized careful preservation and enhancement rather than stripping away the original charm. The renovation involved significant structural and systems upgrades, including replacing old wiring, removing dropped ceiling panels, and installing a central air conditioning system. These improvements were crucial for modern comfort without compromising the loft's inherent character. A key design element was the introduction of a glass partition between the bedroom and living area. This strategic addition allows natural light to permeate the entire space, creating an open and airy atmosphere while still providing a subtle division between functional zones. This technique is commonly employed in contemporary loft conversions to enhance the sense of spaciousness. Reflecting the communal aspect of New York City loft living, BOND centered the design around the kitchen. A prominent 15-foot-long island, featuring waterfall edges and a distinctive cut-in detail, serves both as a practical workspace and a central gathering point. The island is complemented by walnut 'Tractor' stools from BassamFellows, fostering social interaction and connecting to the loft's historical role as a hub for creativity and community. The design philosophy embraced the loft's ability to evolve while retaining its original character. BOND achieved a balance between minimalism and warmth through carefully selected design elements. The bathrooms incorporate subtle yet vibrant pops of color, providing a playful contrast to the overall neutral palette. Gold and brown tones were chosen to complement the natural light streaming through the west-facing windows in the main living area. Sculptural furniture pieces, such as a metal coffee table, elevate the aesthetic while maintaining a sense of flow within the space. The loft also functions as a showcase for the owners' art collection, which includes geometric works by Mika Tajima and whimsical pieces by John Armleder. This integration of art into daily life harks back to the legacy of early artist-occupied lofts in the city, which often served as both residences and creative studios. The renovation successfully transforms a historic space into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing home, honoring its past while catering to contemporary needs. #NewYorkCityLoft #LoftRenovation #BONDDesign #TribecaLoft #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation #HomeDecor

This article highlights a mid-19th-century home in the Catskill Mountains of upstate New York, designed by interior decorator Billy Cotton. The design approach emphasizes a captivating interplay between architectural simplicity and decorative richness, a concept Cotton attributes to his Vermont upbringing. The house, with its Greek Revival façade and largely untouched original layout, allowed Cotton to enhance its inherent simplicity while introducing layers of history and personal narrative. The homeowner, a hotelier seeking a quieter life away from Manhattan, desired a space that reflected a relaxed, old-world collecting sensibility. Cotton's design philosophy involved stripping back existing elements before adding new ones. An example of this is seen in the living room, where an awkwardly placed chimney breast, previously adorned with a marble surround, was restored to its raw brick state and topped with an antique Venetian mirror. This decision was part of a broader narrative to evoke a sense of collected treasures, reminiscent of items found in a 'grandmother's steamer trunk.' The design intentionally combines diverse cultural references, reflecting the immigrant heritage of the USA. The home is a melting pot of antique fabrics, European furniture, Delft tiles, and English wallpapers. This eclectic mix creates a texturally detailed interior that feels both simple and rich. Throughout the house, a "magpie sensibility" is evident, where disparate items are brought together harmoniously. For instance, the kitchen features Delft tiles alongside a mahogany table, while the main bedroom pairs a 1960s Italian wicker chair with a Georgian cabinet. The guest bedroom showcases a French chair, deliberately weathered from its journey, upholstered in faded ticking. Pattern plays a crucial role in the design, incorporated through antique rugs, Robert Kime papers, African coverlets, and Indian block-printed fabrics on the walls. Cotton's deep appreciation for English decoration is evident, stemming from his experiences with Tetbury dealers and his admiration for British history, craft, and reverence for objects. This influence is seen in the naturalness and inherited quality of the schemes. The aesthetic extends to details such as plaster pink walls, exposed rafters, vintage silks, and tapestry wall hangings, all contributing to a visually delightful and well-being-inducing environment. Resting nooks are strategically placed throughout the home, inviting appreciation of the space. A window seat in the kitchen has been converted into a sleeping quarter, and a built-in bed in one of the bedrooms is nestled behind linen curtains, reinforcing a theme of rest and relaxation. The overall design serves as a meditation on beauty, achieved through a thoughtful blend of the grand and the humble. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BillyCotton #NewYorkHome #CatskillMountains #AntiqueDecor #EclecticStyle #OldWorldCharm #GreekRevival

Alvin Wayne, an interior designer, transformed his 800-square-foot rental apartment in Long Island City, New York, into a visually dynamic space utilizing strategic design choices, particularly wallpaper. Wayne's passion for rearranging furniture began in childhood, leading him to pursue a career in interior design. After the 2008 recession, he spent a decade in luxury retail visual merchandising before returning to interior design in 2020 by documenting his apartment's renovation on social media, which quickly garnered clients. Wayne's approach emphasizes the 'why' behind design decisions, moving beyond mere aesthetics. In the living room, he created a five-star hotel lounge ambiance with low-profile furniture, including a Mario Bellini–inspired sofa and custom nesting coffee tables made of pink and red marble. These choices not only provide a sense of luxury but also maintain the room's open feel. Addressing the challenges of a rental apartment, such as a lack of overhead lighting and an immovable structural column, Wayne implemented clever solutions. He mounted an articulating sconce on the column and designed a custom marble-topped table to fit around its curves. An unsightly electrical panel was concealed with a large, frameless artwork by his friend Ronnie Williams. In the kitchen, Wayne upgraded plain upper cabinets with $9 contact paper from Amazon, giving them the appearance of solid brass. For entertaining, which he frequently does, the dining space features landscape wallpaper and staggered pendant lamps with shades resembling clouds, creating the illusion of a field despite being in an urban setting with views of the Empire State Building. An interesting find, a neon "Kiss Me Karl" sign, salvaged from a Karl Lagerfeld event, adds a personal touch to the entry, where another Amazon wallpaper mimics concrete. The living room also features a removable wall mural behind a credenza, complementing his thriving monstera plant. Wayne's plant parenting extends to his bedroom, though he notes the challenges of varying light conditions in New York City, which led to the demise of a black olive tree. The bedroom itself is a testament to his design challenge: creating visual appeal with a monochromatic black and white palette. Graphic wallpaper extends from the walls to the ceiling, making the room feel significantly larger. This daring design choice, inspired by Tyra Banks's motto "Different is better than better," showcases how a limited color scheme can still produce a visually striking and expansive effect. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NYC Apartment #RentalLiving #WallpaperDesign #SmallSpaces #DIYHomeDecor #OpticalIllusions #AlvinWayne

The Whistling Well, led by founder and principal designer Milena Bica-Shibata, undertook the task of transforming an expansive yet outdated Manhattan apartment into a modern sanctuary for a family of three. The design focused on creating a home that supports the family's lifestyle, which includes frequent hosting and communal meals. The 1,800-square-foot apartment now features three bedrooms and baths, alongside generous communal areas such as a lounge and living room, all designed to foster tranquility and connection. Bica-Shibata emphasized the careful selection of natural materials to achieve harmony and a variety of textures and temperatures throughout the space. The chosen materials include stained oak, ash, leathered quartzite, linen, leather, wool, brass, artisan ceramic tile, marbles, and warm tinted glass. This diverse material palette is complemented by a balanced scheme of cool and warm colors, creating a dynamic yet serene aesthetic. The design incorporates clean lines and rounded edges, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere. A custom wood ceiling trim in the living room serves to balance the space and draw the eye upwards, adding architectural interest. This wooden element extends into the kitchen and a custom-designed bar area. The bar was specifically conceived as a continuation of the perimeter millwork, seamlessly transitioning into the eat-in area, which features an operable partition. The design team meticulously studied proportions and materials to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing composition for these integrated spaces. The kitchen itself is a multifunctional tranquil zone, complete with a breakfast nook and the aforementioned bar, catering to the family's culinary and social needs. The inclusion of playful wallcoverings adds a vibrant touch to various areas, such as the children's room where a bold pink and orange wallpaper creates a focal point behind a daybed, and the bathrooms, which also feature lively patterns. Subtle neutrals anchor the main bedroom, promoting a sense of calm and restfulness. Layers of natural materials and earthy hues are consistently applied throughout the home, imbuing it with an overarching sense of peacefulness. This careful curation of design elements and materials successfully transforms the apartment into an oasis, offering a serene escape for the family and their guests amidst the bustling environment of Manhattan. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Wallcoverings #ModernHome #TranquilSpaces

Interior designer Charlie Ferrer's new Greenwich Village apartment in New York City is a testament to his evolving aesthetic, moving from a "spare masculine" midcentury modernism to a more eclectic, colorful, and "granny feminine vibe." Ferrer sought a pre-war building with a working fireplace in the West Village, a combination he found in a 1931 Bing & Bing condominium on Christopher Street, directly above the Stonewall Inn. This location, described as a "dynamic little intersection of energies," offered a livelier environment than his previous Chelsea residences. His stylistic shift mirrors a personal transformation, having grown up in Greenwich, Connecticut, with a "heteronormative white preppy" aesthetic. After moving to Los Angeles, coming out, and entering the furniture business, his design preferences naturally broadened. As a largely self-taught interior designer, Ferrer has expanded his studio to include luxury condominium model apartments and a vintage furniture collaboration with CB2. He notes that different projects and evolving interests taught him to integrate pattern and color into his designs. The apartment's inherent pre-war character, with its solid proportions and charming details like entry vestibule railings, facilitated this transition towards a layered and collected look. Ferrer, who also operates his own vintage design gallery, furnished the apartment by hand-picking pieces from his inventory. He describes his approach as "iterative or incremental, based on discoveries," rather than a pre-conceived "full vision." This method involved customizing chosen items to ensure they complemented each other. Examples of his unique customization include a sofa with added pleats, cast-bronze animal claw feet, and magenta piping. A swiveling "Elda" chair by Joe Colombo, selected for its "weirdness quotient," was reupholstered in a dark green alpaca-hair fabric. Striking molded acrylic dining chairs were given chartreuse-hued textile cushions to contrast with their rosy-amber bases, a design choice Ferrer playfully admits few clients would approve. These chairs pair with an antique wooden table featuring a figurative bronze sculpture by French artist César. In the bedroom, a 1930s archival print from French textile house Le Manach covers the bed, which Ferrer affectionately calls "grandma, but I think it’s super sexy." Above the bed hangs a collection of small crosses from a Parisian estate sale, recontextualized by Ferrer as an "aesthetic gesture" rather than a religious symbol. Unexpected details also appear in the kitchen, where the cabinet interiors are finished in Hermès-orange, contrasting with a wall lined in textured grasscloth. Ferrer justified the choice of absorbent grasscloth due to his minimal cooking habits. Ferrer continuously refines the apartment's details, even installing a new fireplace mantel just before the photo shoot. This collector's approach to interior design has created a personal sanctuary that balances the vibrant energy of the neighborhood with a distinctively curated aesthetic. The apartment serves as a compelling example of how personal narrative, playful experimentation, and a passion for vintage finds can converge to create a truly unique and evolving living space, demonstrating that personality and character can triumph over larger, more conventional layouts. #InteriorDesign #CharlieFerrer #NewYorkApartment #VintageFurniture #EclecticDecor #PreWarBuilding #DesignEvolution #CustomInteriors #GreenwichVillage

In one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Philadelphia, finding a historic rental that aligns with a modern lifestyle can be challenging. Creative consultant and interior stylist Alexandra Morris Flint encountered this while searching for an apartment in early 2018. While many charming townhomes were available at affordable prices, they often proved to be too small or had low ceilings, which was a significant consideration given her husband's height. Morris Flint and her husband initially visited an apartment with 14-foot ceilings and oversized windows, which, despite being the first they saw, left a lasting impression due to the abundant natural light. Although the apartment’s historic exterior contrasted with its recently renovated, classic "white box" interior, Morris Flint saw potential to infuse it with character. Her first step was to repaint the space, transitioning from a cold, flat gray to Benjamin Moore’s Simply White to create a warmer ambiance. Due to the open floor plan, she strategically used Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray to differentiate the living room from the kitchen, painting the walls adjacent to the island and cabinetry in the contrasting hue. To further personalize the space, the couple immediately hired an electrician to replace the existing light fixtures. They chose large-scale pendants, 19 inches in diameter, by Thomas O’Brien, which enhanced the vaulted ceilings and transformed the apartment from a generic listing into a more inviting home. Morris Flint also highlights that lighting fixtures are a renter-friendly upgrade as they can be taken when a lease ends. Morris Flint adopted a gradual approach to decorating, allowing the apartment to evolve over time, consistent with her relaxed and lived-in aesthetic. She views a home as a living laboratory for creative exploration and style development. This philosophy guided the placement of their IKEA dining table, which became a central feature after experimenting with various layouts. Initially positioned under the windows, it was moved to a more central location to optimize the floor plan, now serving as both a dining area and a room divider, draped with a Zsuzsanna Nyul textile. Morris Flint advises flexibility with furniture arrangements, noting that initial ideas often need adjustment once one is living in the space. Her signature 14-foot-tall gallery wall, a focal point of the apartment, also evolved through experimentation. Initially a smaller, more cautious arrangement, it was rehung multiple times before extending to the ceiling. Morris Flint's approach to gallery walls involves anchoring the display with two or three larger pieces and then filling in with smaller details. She emphasizes that impactful art doesn't require a large budget, incorporating sentimental items like a restaurant valet ticket and a vintage wallpaper fragment. This creative ingenuity extends beyond wall decor; the couple's bed features a unique headboard made from a folding screen borrowed from her mother, designer Suzanne Kasler, adapted with brackets and a coordinating bed skirt. Three years into living in the apartment, Morris Flint continues to refine the layout and introduce new elements, embracing the impermanence inherent in decorating a rental. Her advice to others is to allow time to live in a space before feeling pressured to decorate everything at once, as this iterative process is key to creating an authentic and happy home. #RentalDecor #HomeStyling #GalleryWall #InteriorDesign #PhiladelphiaHomes #SmallSpaceDesign #DIYDecor #CreativeLiving #ApartmentTherapy

Casey Neistat, a YouTube vlogger known for his dynamic, fast-paced content, and Candice Pool, founder of the fine jewelry companies Billy! and Finn, have created an urban sanctuary in their high-rise Battery Park City apartment. Eschewing the typical chaotic loft living often associated with creative New Yorkers, the couple sought to establish a tranquil, homey environment that contrasts sharply with Neistat's bustling SoHo office. Their goal was to find a suburban-like peace within the city's confines, a desire that became increasingly important as they grew their family. Working with New York City-based designer Daun Curry, who had previously designed showrooms for Pool’s jewelry brands, Neistat and Pool transformed their three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath apartment into a serene retreat. The couple explicitly wanted to avoid a stark, impersonal 'white box' aesthetic, which Pool, a former West Village resident, found unappealing. Curry addressed this by introducing dynamic layers and a sense of history into the modern condo space. One notable design choice was the application of matte-black wainscoting and painting everything below the window sills in the same dark shade. This technique visually grounds the space, drawing attention to the apartment's expansive views of the Hudson River while creating an illusion of depth and lowering the perceived floor level. The interior design adopted a 'Bohemian Aristocrat' theme, characterized by a 'laid-back luxe' aesthetic. The living room, for instance, features a large, comfortable Belgian linen sofa from Restoration Hardware, adorned with embroidered textiles from ABC Carpet & Home and a faux-fur throw from Barneys New York. This blend of comfort and subtle luxury is complemented by a diverse art collection, including a leopard photo by Caroline Gibello—a nod to Pool's South African heritage—a custom painting by Shantell Martin incorporating their initials, and a pastoral painting discovered during a stay at the Ocean House Hotel in Rhode Island. A gold skateboard sculpture, a Father's Day gift from Pool to Neistat, serves as a unique personal touch. The apartment's layout, which Neistat and Pool describe as perfect, provides distinct areas within an open floor plan, offering both spaciousness and defined living zones. Practical amenities, such as on-site laundry, further contribute to the suburban feel desired by the couple as parents of a toddler with another child on the way. Clutter avoidance was a key principle in their design philosophy, with Pool emphasizing that expanding square footage does not equate to expanding hoarding habits. Built-ins in the bedroom and the removal of excessive cabinetry from previous owners underscore their commitment to a calm, neat living space. Ultimately, the apartment has achieved its purpose: providing a genuine sense of home and belonging in New York City, a sentiment Neistat describes as a profound shift from merely surviving to truly living in the city. #CelebrityHomes #ApartmentDesign #InteriorDesign #NewYorkCity #ZenLifestyle #HomeDecor #UrbanRefuge #DesignerCollaboration #BohemianAristocrat

Garrow Kedigian, an interior designer, undertook the renovation of a 3,200-square-foot, four-bedroom prewar apartment on the Upper East Side for a young family with two children. The primary goal of the renovation was to preserve the historical charm of the home while integrating modern living conveniences. The apartment's untouched state for years necessitated significant upgrades to align with contemporary design and functionality. A standout feature of the apartment is its 50-foot-long entryway, which Kedigian dramatically enhanced. He incorporated grid wall paneling and a unique barrel ceiling. The ceiling is a detailed replica of the astrological map found on the vaulted ceiling of Grand Central Terminal, a familiar sight to many New York City commuters. To further elevate this design element, Kedigian installed tiny LED bulb lights to illuminate specific stars, creating a celestial ambiance. Kedigian also addressed the common issue of dropped ceilings in prewar apartments, which often hide the original architectural height. He meticulously restored the original ceiling heights throughout the home. This not only made the rooms feel more spacious but also allowed for the installation of more elegant pendant lighting, replacing previous recessed fixtures. Strategic color choices were integral to the design, ensuring the space felt inviting and cohesive. The kitchen, for example, features cabinets painted in Soft Chinchilla by Benjamin Moore, chosen to create a welcoming atmosphere. Kedigian emphasizes that kitchens should feel like rooms rather than purely utilitarian spaces, advocating for vibrant color choices. In many areas, the trim was painted in a contrasting color to the walls, adding depth and character to each room. Technology was cleverly integrated to maintain the home's aesthetic. All televisions in the apartment are designed to double as art when not in use. In the primary bedroom, the TV screen displays the same wallpaper pattern as the walls when turned off, ensuring a seamless visual flow. The furnishings and art throughout the apartment are a curated mix, combining finds from the Paris flea market—selected in collaboration with the clients—with mid-century modern pieces, reflecting the clients' eclectic taste. The living room exemplifies this eclectic approach, with an antique carpet from a Doyle auction setting the foundation. Lighting fixtures, including sconces and floor lamps, were sourced from the Paris flea market, with custom lampshades from Broome Lampshades and Oriental Lampshade. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Caribbean Teal with Wenge trim. An antique sofa was re-covered in a blush chevron velvet from Schumacher, complemented by custom pillows from Fabricut fabric. The art collection includes pieces from the Paris flea market, auction acquisitions, and existing client-owned works. For the dining room, Kedigian transformed the large space into a combined den and dining area. The dining table was repositioned near the windows to create space for sofa seating opposite the fireplace, enhancing its functionality and coziness. The color palette of blues and grays, accented with yellows and oranges, contributes to an inviting atmosphere. Key elements include wall paint in Lakeside Cabin by Benjamin Moore, a Hickory Pearson dining table, Circa Lighting sconces, and custom curtains. The furniture and decorative items, such as chairs and lamps, were also sourced from the Paris flea market, with vintage wall art and a small table, and the client's own mirror and candle holders. The primary bedroom features delicate Harlequin wallpaper adorned with butterflies and birds on willow-like branches. The linen and blush tones of the wallpaper are complemented by Benjamin Moore Rose Blush trim and neutral accents. Custom elements include the headboard, pillows, and bedding. In the children's bedroom, Kedigian aimed for a whimsical yet sophisticated design, incorporating vertical blue and yellow stripes reminiscent of a circus tent. The walls are painted in Alfresco and Hawthorne Yellow by Benjamin Moore, with Kingsport Grey trim. Custom pillows and bedspreads made from Cowtan & Tout and Colefax & Fowler fabrics, along with vintage bed frames, nightstands, and a ceiling light, complete the playful yet elegant design. These thoughtful design choices and upgrades ensure the apartment is set to age gracefully, providing a beautiful and functional home for the family. #UpperEastSide #ApartmentRenovation #InteriorDesign #GarrowKedigian #GrandCentralTerminalCeiling #NewYorkCityHome #LuxuryHome #EclecticDecor #PrewarApartment

When Kate Yearwood Young and her husband acquired a 2013 Georgian-style townhouse in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, they enlisted Frederick Tang Architecture for a design refresh. The 3,500-square-foot home, while livable with high ceilings and two terraces, suffered from a vexing layout and bland, new-build finishes, including faux-Colonial detailing, an Italianate-style iron staircase, and chrome hardware. The clients sought a modern aesthetic, a stark departure from the existing colorless palette. The architects, Frederick Tang and Barbara Reyes, approached the project as a cosmetic refresh rather than a gut renovation, allowing for more focus on design-oriented elements and a personalized budget allocation. Upon closing in November 2020, Tang and Reyes began transforming the five-story house and cellar into a cohesive, multi-hued environment. Their vision drew inspiration from the organic forms of late ceramicist Valentine Schlegel, evident in the sculptural modifications made throughout the home. The builder-grade stair rails were replaced with curved plaster masses, reeded glass, and brass trims, creating a sinuous, tactile staircase. Similarly, the fireplace in the foyer was reimagined in plaster, serving as a sculptural anchor that visually connects to the colossal ceiling height. These dramatic architectural interventions allowed each floor to develop its unique character. The design incorporates a rich color palette of black, cream, peacock blue, rust, oxblood, mulberry, wine, and blush, complemented by brass fixtures. The client, Kate Yearwood Young, known for her keen sense of style and appreciation for color, specifically requested a deep, not-too-bright red. Beyond significant structural changes, the project involved more minimal spatial adjustments and aesthetic enhancements. The small fifth-floor penthouse was converted into a dedicated home office, flanked by terraces, and custom millwork featuring a wet bar and bench was added to the second-floor landing. Further bespoke details include the dining room's inset ceiling, which was rounded into a curved cove, housing an Art Deco brass and marble chandelier. This chandelier overlooks a large painting inherited from the clients' grandmother, highlighting the integration of personal heirlooms. Other furnishings, such as their grandmother's L-shaped Selig modular sofa, were reupholstered in Knoll's Rebel fabric, retaining sentimental value while updating the aesthetic. Antiques, including a stone and brass dining table, a 1960s Italian chandelier in the powder room, and a 1970s DIA glass and brass swivel table, were sourced to contribute to the home's layered character. The architects also procured pieces from local Brooklyn vendors, as well as from Mexico and Portugal, resulting in a design that artfully blends global and historical influences into a contemporary and cohesive space. The kitchen's existing cabinetry was retained, but the island was replaced with a custom piece by Casa Quieta, and a Hurricane Black marble backsplash was installed against the crème millwork. The five-story home's vertical organization is emphasized by the bold staircase. The fifth-floor landing, which leads to the work-from-home space and rooftop gardens, features hand-painted botanical wallpaper from Artemest and an Anna Karlin Arc pendant. The penthouse bar and powder room are clad with Breccia Pernice marble from Verona, Italy, which offsets the painterly wallpaper, contributing to the home's dramatic and moody interior design. #BrooklynBrownstone #InteriorDesign #FrederickTangArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #DramaticInteriors #MoodyInteriors #PlasterSculpture #CustomMillwork #VintageAccents

This blog post showcases a luxurious 2,291-square-foot residence located at 200 East 59th Street, a property developed by Harry Macklowe. The unit, featuring two bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, has been meticulously staged with surrealist art pieces to introduce a sense of glamorous whimsy, setting it apart from conventional home presentations. A standout feature of this corner half-floor residence is its expansive 94-linear-foot wraparound terrace, offering diverse views including Central Park to the North, the Midtown Skyline to the West, and southern vistas. This outdoor space is designed to seamlessly integrate with the interior living areas, particularly the great room. The interior design emphasizes modern luxury and functionality. The open kitchen is equipped with Italian white glass and aluminum trim cabinetry by Aran Cuchine. It boasts book-matched honed Calacatta marble slab countertops and full-height backsplashes, complemented by a natural white oak island. High-end integrated Brilliant White glass appliances from Miele, including a wine refrigerator, are incorporated into the kitchen design, highlighting a commitment to both aesthetics and culinary convenience. The master bedroom, facing west, is generously sized and includes three ample closets, leading into a luxurious en-suite master bath. The master bath is adorned with Siberian white polished marble on the walls and honed marble floors that feature radiant heating for added comfort. A floating vanity crafted from Siberian mink polished marble, fitted with Watermarks contemporary Loft 24 Collection fixtures in a polished chrome finish, enhances the bathroom's sophisticated appeal. The bathing experience is elevated by a spa-like, floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed rain shower with thermostatic controls, alongside a freestanding deep-soaking bathtub. The overall design of the home was conceptualized by Cyril Vergniol, known for his work on the Hotel de Crillon in Paris. Vergniol's vision for this Midtown East residence was to create a light-filled space that pays homage to the artistic styles of Salvador Dali and Joan Miro, suggesting an eclectic yet elegant atmosphere. The property is currently listed for $5.4 million, with Barbara Russo, Natalie Rakowski, and Tom Postilio of Douglas Elliman managing the sale. This offering represents a unique blend of high-end real estate, sophisticated interior design, and artistic inspiration in a prime New York City location. #Art #DailyDreamHome #Luxury #Manhattan #NewYorkCity #Skyscraper #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalGem

Nidhi Kapur, the founder of Maiden Home, established the brand in 2017 to address a perceived gap in the modern home decor market. Her experience furnishing her first home revealed a prevalence of generic designs and subpar craftsmanship among large retailers. Leveraging her technology background, Kapur aimed to offer sophisticated yet affordably priced furnishings directly to consumers. Maiden Home sources its products from artisans in North Carolina, focusing on quality and distinctive design. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model enables the brand to maintain competitive pricing while delivering high-end aesthetics. In the summer of 2022, Maiden Home launched Tribeca House, a temporary pop-up experience in New York. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a tangible interaction with the brand's aesthetic and demonstrate how Maiden Home's curated approach could be integrated into their personal living spaces. The pop-up was situated in a two-story, 2,500-square-foot loft, offering ample space to showcase a selection of items from the brand's summer 2022 collection. The layout and presentation at Tribeca House were designed to inspire visitors and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary home styling. The featured pieces at Tribeca House included several key designs from the summer 2022 collection. Among these was the minimalist Mulberry ottoman, characterized by its clean lines and functional design, reflecting a blend of modern simplicity and practicality. Another highlight was the Kenmare chair, crafted from ash wood and upholstered in a white tweed fabric, emphasizing texture and natural materials. The Vestry nesting tables also garnered attention; this pair of tables featured asymmetrical forms and were constructed from domestically sourced red oak, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality materials and unique design elements. The pop-up aimed to illustrate the brand's 'collected home mindset,' encouraging customers to view furnishings as cohesive elements that contribute to a unified and sophisticated living environment. By presenting these items in a curated physical space, Maiden Home sought to bridge the gap between online browsing and the tactile experience of selecting home decor. The initiative reinforced the brand's dedication to providing accessible, high-quality modern furnishings that prioritize both design and craftsmanship. While Tribeca House was a temporary installation designed to engage customers and introduce new collections, Maiden Home's core philosophy emphasizes the enduring nature of its products. The brand's focus on timeless design, durable materials, and expert craftsmanship ensures that its furniture is intended for long-term use, contrasting with the fleeting trends often associated with mass-produced items. This commitment to longevity is a central tenet of Maiden Home's identity, promising pieces that will remain relevant and cherished in customers' homes for years to come. #MaidenHome #HomeDecor #NewYorkPopUp #ModernFurnishings #DirectToConsumer #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship