Mixing and Matching Has Never Looked Better Than in This NYC Apartment

The article details the design philosophy and interior of "The Ochre Home," the residence of artist and freelance stylist Geraldine Toh and her husband, Vincent Lim. The name "Ochre Home" was chosen by Ms. Toh to reflect the predominant color palette and earthy sensibility of their space, which primarily features shades of brown, yellow, and orange, reminiscent of the natural clay pigment. As an artist, Ms. Toh often uses ochre in her paintings, further solidifying its significance to her home's aesthetic. The home's style is described as mid-century modern inspired with an eclectic mix. Ms. Toh, who studied fine arts, showcases a keen eye for color, proportion, and design. The couple selected a 30-year-old apartment for its spaciousness, airiness, and square layout, which simplified space planning. Key layout modifications included removing a kitchen wall to create an open entrance, repositioning the common bathroom door for discretion, and moving the master bedroom door to facilitate an open-concept walk-in wardrobe. The initial impression upon entering the apartment is one of expansive open space. A central tenet of Ms. Toh's design approach is the belief that furnishing a home should be a gradual process, allowing for the collection of unique pieces with personal stories. She views her home as "forever a work in progress," emphasizing modularity and movability to allow for frequent rearrangements and to maintain visual interest. She favors eclecticism over perfectly matched sets, choosing standalone pieces that complement the overall color scheme and texture, ensuring that new additions enhance rather than disrupt the aesthetic. This approach creates pockets and corners with distinct functionalities within the larger open space. Throughout The Ochre Home, visual interest is evident in various details. Ms. Toh painted a mural of a flower on one wall, and customisable fabric outer jackets on the Toshiba Haori air-conditioning units blend seamlessly with the interiors. The couple dedicated time to assembling their furniture, often thrifting pieces or carefully selecting others for their historical significance and narrative. For instance, their Commune leather sofa was acquired from an expatriate family, and their stackable dining chairs are vintage 1980s Casala Obo Formsitz pieces sourced from AA Furniture, specializing in vintage Japanese furniture. The study area, carved out from the main living space without walls, features a 1960s Danish kidney-bean-shaped desk from local store Noden. Lighting fixtures also hold historical value, such as a vintage 1970s Louis Poulsen Panthella lamp from Aria Design Store, which exhibits a beautiful patina. Other notable pieces include a 1960s Danish coffee table, a thrifted Marcel Breuer cantilever chair, and a Flos Arco floor lamp. A 1970s pinecone wall lamp from a Danish vintage store in Vancouver was hand-carried home by Ms. Toh. Mid-century design signatures are prominent, with an Eames lounge chair, Hans J. Wegner’s CH24 Wishbone Chair, and a special-edition Safari chair by Kaare Klint. Personal touches include a pinewood side table and a kapur wood bench, both crafted by Mr. Lim. Beyond aesthetics, the home was conceived as a creative hub for the couple's artistic and hobby pursuits. A dedicated creative room stores art-making equipment, and plain white walls serve as a canvas for photographic prints, abstract paintings, and Ms. Toh’s first mural. The article concludes by noting that the couple's personal touches and years of inhabiting the space have successfully actualized their vision for The Ochre Home, creating a lived-in and deeply personal atmosphere. #EclecticHomeDesign #MidCenturyModern #OchreHome #ArtistHome #VintageFurniture #CreativeSpace #HomeStyling #SingaporeDesign #PersonalizedInteriors

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

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

The article showcases a vibrantly designed modern apartment, a collaborative project by Daria Vasilkova of Art Group, Oksana Zavarzina, and Evgeny Schevchenko of LakeandWalls. This apartment is a testament to Vasilkova’s unique aesthetic, characterized by a bold and unconventional use of color, a fusion of diverse design styles, a creative mix of materials, and an extensive application of playful ceramic tiles, many of which were designed by Vasilkova herself under her company, Reda. The overarching design philosophy emphasizes quirkiness and a whimsical approach to modern living spaces. Each room in the apartment is crafted to make a distinct design statement, with ceramic tiles playing a pivotal role beyond their traditional use. Vasilkova integrates these tiles in innovative ways, such as adorning walls in place of wallpaper, covering window slopes, and gracing furniture facades. This inventive application of materials is evident throughout the residence, contributing to its distinctive and artistic character. The kitchen area exemplifies this creative design. It features a striking upper bank of warm wood cabinets with wavy fronts, complemented by white built-in wall cabinets with red accents. A shiny red kitchen faucet further enhances the cohesive color scheme. The dining space, which shares a gradient blue tile floor, is enlivened by a collection of Mullit and Magnum chairs by Sancal. These chairs, in various shades of green, red, and blue, are arranged around a simple dining table. Two Miami pendants by Il Fanale, suspended overhead, add an unexpected and playful touch, resembling eyes peering down. In the living room, a custom metal bookcase is mounted against a wall adorned with black and white patterned Reda tiles. This bookcase serves as a display for books, decorative objects, and plants, integrating storage with artistic expression. The color red is consistently carried into the living room, outlining the baseboard molding and framing a custom mirror. A cobalt blue cabinet, clad in Reda’s Sport 60’s tiles, sits beneath a sculptural mirror crafted by Elisaveta Solonitsyna, also using Reda ceramics, further emphasizing the apartment’s artistic and colorful narrative. The apartment’s hallways feature a black and white tiled floor, complemented by a light blue pouf, maintaining the vibrant and eclectic theme. The bedrooms continue this trend of unique detailing. One child's room features a custom perforated wall that functions as a headboard, adding both visual interest and functionality. Another bedroom highlights blue and white tiles that frame the window, part of Vasilkova's “Dreams” collection, inspired by fairy tales and their heroic characters. The bathrooms are equally bold, showcasing blue and white patterned walls, black and white checked floors, double white sinks with black bowls and blue fixtures, and even a red bathtub within a niche of gray and blue wall tiles. The laundry room also incorporates colorful elements, ensuring that no space is left untouched by the apartment's whimsical and modern design. #ModernApartment #ColorfulInterior #QuirkyDesign #CeramicTiles #DariaVasilkova #InteriorDesign #PatternPlay #CustomFurniture #ArtisticLiving

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

This article highlights the transformation of a newbuild three-bedroom luxury condo in New York City into a vibrant, chic, and globally-inspired pied-à-terre by Petrie Interior Designs. The owners, avid travelers, sought to create a comfortable home for themselves and their extended family in a city they cherish for its diversity and proximity to loved ones. The initial challenge involved redesigning a space previously built for a young couple with toddlers, necessitating the removal of outdated wallpaper and built-in cabinetry while emphasizing existing floor-to-ceiling windows and natural light. Designer Susan Petrie’s vision centered on embodying exuberance, style, and color, reflecting the clients' globetrotting lifestyle and their appreciation for sophisticated textiles and a global aesthetic. The project involved a significant overhaul, with the clients ultimately deciding to retain only the dining table from the previous owners, opting to replace or revamp all other elements. Petrie describes the interior style as a “global, chic retreat,” characterized by the strategic introduction of colorful wallpaper, strong pattern plays, and bold yet sophisticated fabrics and colors, particularly Manuel Canovas fabric as accent pieces. This approach allowed for a design narrative that weaves together the clients' love for global furnishings, unique eclectic touches, and diverse, chic interiors, ensuring that each room makes a distinct personal statement. The entry and hallway were designed to create an immediate global impression. Dark stained wallpaper and a wood grain front door were replaced to brighten the space. The hallway features Ramayana Blue toile wallpaper by GP & J Baker, evoking distant travel, complemented by a vintage Venetian mirror, a Moorish mother-of-pearl inlay table, and an African Senufo meditation stool. These elements collectively establish an international flair, setting the tone for the curated furnishings throughout the home. The hallway further extends into an area adorned with Serena Dugan Studio’s Cassis Grasscloth Wallpaper in Prussian Blue. The living room stands out as a focal point and a favorite space for the clients, celebrated for its intentional eclecticism. Susan Petrie chose not to use window treatments in this area to maximize the natural light and showcase the western views of the historic Gramercy area. The design prioritized warmth, comfort, and strategic pops of color, with a color palette inspired by Moroccan spices like cayenne, saffron, paprika, and ginger. Custom furniture pieces, including a tufted sofa with an embroidered border trim, bergère chairs with a raspberry contrast trim, and a scalloped edge ottoman upholstered in a coral zig-zag fabric, contribute to the unique and inviting atmosphere. A gallery wall featuring Mary Maguire’s art, known for its antique frames and worldly images, adds a cheerful and unique touch. The kitchen's renovation included replacing original pendants with smoked glass Noreen pendant lights and Henson counter stools from Arteriors, introducing a rustic yet refined aesthetic. The dining area capitalizes on natural light, with Susan Petrie opting against window treatments. A recycled green glass and gold leaf chandelier from Arteriors enhances both artificial and natural light. An authentic hand-woven Otomi table runner adds vibrant color, while the existing table and benches were updated with custom cushions made from Kravet hexagon fabric. The home office features Serena Dugan’s Bahia grass cloth wallpaper in Onyx/Natural, creating an exotic, Brazilian-beach inspired feel, juxtaposed with city views from a vintage woven rattan desk. A rust and teal sivas rug from Eliko grounds the space. The primary bedroom is designed as a cozy and tasteful retreat, a favorite of the clients. A custom upholstered bed from Oomph with a global-themed shape, Peter Fasano Trotwood Dusk Fabric, Matouk zig-zag sheets, and a custom bolster made from Lisa Fine textiles Mughal Floral Monsoon fabric create a luxurious and feminine ambiance. Custom window treatments provide sound and light protection, while a Madeline slipper chair upholstered in Brunschwig & Fils Les Touches offers a comfortable spot for reading. The guest bedroom, designed for a range of ages, features Schumacher Thistle Stripe wallpaper and a custom bed in orchid chinoiserie fabric, complemented by vintage Moroccan green hand-painted side tables, ensuring a cheerful yet luxurious space. #NewYorkCondo #InteriorDesign #EclecticDecor #GlobalInspired #ColorPalette #PatternPlay #LuxuryLiving #ChicInteriors #PetrieInteriorDesigns

The Manner, a new hospitality concept by Standard International in SoHo, New York, aims to merge elements of a hotel, private residence, and members’ club. This establishment, designed by architect Hannes Peer in collaboration with Standard International's in-house team and chief design officer Verena Haller, is Peer's first hotel project. His design philosophy for The Manner draws inspiration from Aldo Rossi's concept of cities carrying layered memories, which he translated into a rich and varied material palette and a sense of curated intimacy throughout the space. The hotel is situated on a quiet street in SoHo, surrounded by local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and various stores. This vibrant neighborhood served as a key reference point for Peer, who sought to emulate its diverse textures, colors, and styles within the hotel's interior. The lobby exemplifies this approach with its blend of marble, metal, leather, wood, ceramic, and cement. Notable artistic additions include a hand-glazed terracotta frieze by Giovanni De Francesco and a sculptural piece by Nicholas Shurey. The second-floor area, known as the Apartment, further showcases the hotel's unique design elements. It features a glossy cork ceiling, columns adorned with textured ceramic reliefs by Ben Medansky, and an elevator wall covered in over 5,000 bubble-like tiles, a subtle homage to Giò Ponti's Parco dei Principi. The 97 rooms and suites are characterized by a bold color scheme, incorporating jewel tones such as mango walls, lipstick-red headboards, and ultramarine closets. Custom furnishings are prevalent, and some rooms include serpentinite green or muted chartreuse sofas or banquettes, with the two-story terrace penthouse featuring rich red lacquer and velvet accents. The design emphasizes warmth and human connection, fostering an environment where guests feel like they are stepping into a series of curated, intimate residences rather than a conventional hotel. This vision is reflected in the absence of televisions in rooms and a traditional check-in desk, prioritizing privacy and a strong sense of intimacy. The Apartment space is designed for guests and their friends to relax and socialize, particularly during aperitivo hour. A rooftop lounge offering skyline views is also planned to open in the spring, adding another dimension to the guest experience. Beyond the guest accommodations, The Manner integrates various dining and social spaces. Chef Alex Stupak oversees The Otter, a ground-floor all-day restaurant featuring an international seafood menu, including lobster rolls, specialty cocktails, and scallop crudo. The restaurant's interior is distinguished by a large mural by Spanish muralist and architect Elvira Solana. Another highlight is Sloane’s, a moody bar on the second floor, which is described as Verena Haller's favorite space. Sloane's boasts a collection of art, lighting, furniture, and fabrics gathered from global travels, with an alcove decorated with gold leaf. This bar offers a unique take on classic New York dishes and cocktails, such as chicken nuggets and dirty martinis with caviar. Overall, The Manner aims to provide a distinctive hospitality experience in New York City, combining thoughtful design, diverse materials, artistic collaborations, and a focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that blurs the lines between a hotel, a private home, and a social club. #NewYork #SoHo #HospitalityDesign #HotelArchitecture #InteriorDesign #BoutiqueHotel #LuxuryTravel #HannesPeer #StandardInternational

This Upper East Side apartment, designed by S.R. Gambrel, showcases luxurious interiors on 79th Street. Each room is designed to be distinctive while contributing to a cohesive aesthetic, featuring a vibrant color palette, unique wall decor, ornate light fixtures, and distinctive floor textiles. The formal living room, situated at the front of the home, is bathed in natural light from expansive windows. It employs neutral tones for its furnishings, carpet, and fireplace, with an emphasis on uncommon shapes, including an oblong chaise-sofa combination and a pair of Art Deco mirrors framing the fireplace. Adjacent to the formal living room, a sitting area presents a dramatic contrast with shiny deep purple walls and a bright red ceiling. This space is further enhanced by a brightly colored abstract painting positioned above the couch. A second, softer living room maintains a focus on surprising design details but with a more understated approach. This room incorporates marble-like patterns in both the carpet and window treatments. A cool blue sofa provides a focal point, set against elegant gold wallpaper. The dining room, located at the opposite end of the second sitting room, features a modern orange table paired with an Art Deco chandelier, maintaining the apartment's blend of contemporary and classic elements. The kitchen extends the orange color theme from the living room, contributing to a modern and graphic aesthetic. It features Tetris-like floor tiling, which is complemented by a light marble island and a modern light fixture. Additional rooms within the residence continue the theme of unique luxury, including a sitting room adorned with fur and a bathroom finished in marble. The overall design throughout the apartment emphasizes a rich interplay of colors, textures, and forms. #UpperEastSide #LuxuryApartment #InteriorDesign #SRGambrel #VividColors #ArtDeco #ModernDesign #HomeDecor #ManhattanRealEstate

Architect Andrew Magnes embarked on a transformative design journey for a 4,500-square-foot Madison Avenue duplex, which presented both a challenge and an opportunity due to its prime location offering 360-degree views of Central Park. While Magnes typically favors a clean slate approach, the immediate impression of the duplex compelled him to preserve the spectacular perimeter views, making them a central focus of the upstairs design. The downstairs, however, became an arena for comprehensive reorganization, drawing inspiration from Louis Kahn's architectural principles. Magnes conceived a central core for the lower level, housing essential services such as mechanical systems, storage, and stairs. This strategic consolidation freed up the surrounding areas for living spaces. The renovation included significant infrastructure upgrades, with new hybrid HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems installed to modernize the apartment. Ceilings were only lowered when absolutely necessary, maintaining a sense of openness and maximizing vertical space. The kitchen and dining room were designed with an open-plan concept, yet equipped with hidden telescoping doors that offer privacy and sound absorption when desired, providing flexibility for entertaining and daily living. A notable feature in the kitchen is the three-inch-thick glass work counter, custom-cast by Shiny Sparkle Studio and illuminated by interior coves within the elliptical, plaster ceiling, adding a touch of bespoke luxury. A copper backsplash serves as a visual transition to the wet bar, which is conveniently located near a circular media room. The media room itself is a vibrant space, characterized by its blue lacquer walls and a custom Roche Bobois sofa, complemented by a Dedar Milano shade and Lorenza Bozzoli Couture accents. The duplex is connected by two distinct staircases. To the north, an anigre veneer structure provides access to the upper level. To the south, a striking corten spiral stair, designed by Juan Alfredo Design, acts as a sculptural element, linking the lower level to the upstairs primary suite. The primary suite features lavish alba Chiara marble in the shower and sink areas, while the three additional bedrooms each boast their own unique tone of three-dimensional tile in their respective bathrooms, ensuring individuality and sophisticated detailing throughout. Andrew Magnes Architects collaborated with Fawn Galli Interiors to bring the interior design vision to life. Fawn Galli shared Magnes's appreciation for the panoramic views, integrating Central Park's natural beauty into the interior's color scheme and overall ambiance. Galli's design philosophy for the space focused on creating a joyful, fresh, fun, and energetic environment. The walls, painted in warm grey, are enlivened by compounds of colors and patterns, reflecting a desire to infuse the apartment with personality and vibrancy. This collaborative effort resulted in a unique and dynamic living space that harmonizes architectural innovation with a vibrant and playful interior aesthetic, making it an entirely distinctive residence. #DuplexApartment #MadisonAvenue #InteriorDesign #LuxuryRenovation #CentralParkViews #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomInteriors #FawnGalliInteriors #AndrewMagnes

Interior designer Kara Mann's Chicago apartment showcases a deliberate blend of high and low elements, characterized by a sophisticated palette of black and brown tones, complemented by various textures and materials. The design ethos is rooted in elegance, a value Mann inherited from her mother, and a preference for subtlety and richness over vibrant colors. This approach is evident throughout her personal style and her professional interior design work. The apartment is situated in a unique vintage co-op building in Chicago, designed by Andrew Rebori, where each unit possesses distinct characteristics. Mann specifically sought out a property that had been untouched for an extended period, allowing her the creative freedom for a comprehensive renovation project. The previous occupant resided there for approximately 40 years, making it an ideal canvas for her design vision. Mann's design philosophy extends to her personal fashion choices, which mirror her interior aesthetics. She embraces a 'high-low' style, favoring durable, beloved items worn repeatedly, and prioritizing texture, richness, and subtle details. This is reflected in her interiors through materials like marble, patinated leather, brass, wood, and grayscale photography, creating a 'muddy rainbow' of complementary hues. A key aspect of her design is the incorporation of animal prints, specifically leopard and tiger patterns, which provide a foundational layer to the textured and layered aesthetic. These prints are integrated in a way that emphasizes materiality rather than bold statements, contributing to the overall elegance. Mann believes in collecting items over time that resonate personally, rather than curating a space all at once. This organic approach is evident in the apartment's collected feel, where each piece, from a Rick Owens chair (a gift) to an Ann Collier art piece, holds personal significance and a story. The renovation of the apartment involved thoughtful restoration and strategic additions. The original checkerboard flooring in the living/dining room was preserved and became a central visual element around which other design choices, such as the terracotta rug, were made. The fireplace, also original, was restored with fire brick, and the plaster was refreshed. A significant modification included redesigning the kitchen from a galley layout into a more expansive and functional space, incorporating a powder room and utility closet. The kitchen features artwork by Alex Prager, chosen for its personal connection to Mann and her sister. Mann's sourcing strategy is eclectic, drawing from diverse places such as Paris flea markets, antique and vintage stores, and design resources like 1stDibs. She also procures rugs from New York and Los Angeles. She emphasizes that design should be lived in and not too precious, advocating for comfort and allowing spaces to evolve with the lives of their inhabitants. This perspective is particularly highlighted by the presence of her daughter's belongings, such as stuffed animals and books, which contribute to the lived-in feel of the space, even influencing the design of her daughter's room. The apartment, in its entirety, represents Mann's unique architectural and decorative style, a harmonious blend of collected treasures and personal narratives. #InteriorDesign #KaraMann #ChicagoApartment #HomeTour #HighLowDesign #TexturalDesign #VintageInteriors #PersonalStyle #ArchitecturalRenovation

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

The article showcases the vibrant, color-drenched apartment of interior decorator Ally Doman, founder of New York-based Doman Decors, challenging the prevailing minimalist and neutral design trends. Doman, known for her playful and gorgeously designed spaces for clients, provides a tour of her three-bedroom railroad-style apartment, which she shares with her fiancé. They secured the apartment due to its generous square footage and favorable rent, recognizing its potential despite its initial outdated and damaged condition. The apartment required significant renovation, including addressing bare subfloors, cracked tiling, and old kitchen appliances. Doman emphasizes that renovating a rental is often challenging but, in this case, allowed them to transform the space into a personalized home. Despite the initial state, the apartment featured appealing architectural elements such as built-in cabinets and ornate millwork from the early 20th century. Doman successfully integrated a dressing room and a music studio alongside the standard living areas, giving each space a distinct personality. Doman describes her personal design style as bold, bright, colorful, and comfortable, with a blend of sophistication and playfulness. She frequently works with New York apartments, which often present challenges due to their boxy and limited square footage. To counteract these constraints, she favors mid-century shapes and incorporates curvy pieces like free-form tables and rounded decor, along with intricate patterns. Her design process is organic, prioritizing meaningful existing decor and new discoveries over rigid pre-planned color schemes. She allows cherished items and found pieces to guide the aesthetic direction, developing a color story based on these elements midway through the design process. Inspiration for Doman's work comes from various sources, including iconic Post-Impressionist artists like Matisse, whom she admires for his depiction of whimsical and colorful interiors. She also draws ideas from decor magazines such as 'Elle Decor' and 'Architectural Digest,' and follows the work of the Belgian interior design team JP Demeyer & Co for their bold pattern play and eclecticism. For Doman, room functionality is paramount, as she considers how clients will live in their space, whether they prefer lounging or frequently host events. She aims to create spaces that offer a comforting escape from the city's chaos, providing an element of surprise upon entry. Doman sources her apartment decor from a variety of places, including CB2 for sculptural and contemporary furniture, Article for larger pieces like her green sectional, and her true passion, vintage sourcing, both online through Instagram shops and in-person around Brooklyn. She has found unique items on eBay, such as her vintage coffee table, and a lotus lamp from an Instagram seller. Etsy is another go-to for one-of-a-kind finds, and she appreciates local New York-based designers like BEAM, Cold Picnic, and Coming Soon NY. For paints, she uses Farrow and Ball for her living room and dressing room, and Benjamin Moore for the bedroom and kitchen. The biggest design challenge in her railroad apartment is its long and narrow layout, which can be difficult to decorate. The absence of closets necessitated creative storage solutions, including armoires, trunks, and room dividers. The renovation process also faced timeline delays, with the couple living in one room for a month while the rest of the apartment was completed. Doman advises others in similar living situations to be bold in creating different moods for each room while ensuring a cohesive flow due to open layouts. She achieves this by subtly referencing color palettes from other rooms, such as incorporating black and white objects throughout the apartment to echo the kitchen's tile. Ultimately, home for Doman represents a comfortable sanctuary for self-expression and the realization of aesthetic fantasies without external deadlines. #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #ApartmentLiving #RentalRenovation #HomeDecor #AllyDoman #NewYorkApartment #VintageSourcing #Maximalism

The article presents a detailed tour of Leena Nasser's landmarked Upper West Side apartment in Manhattan, designed by Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors. Leena, a social scientist, writer, artist, and dancer, sought to create a home that truly embodies her imaginative and free-spirited personality, a concept she refers to as her ‘creative womb’. The apartment, built in 1915, initially featured builder-grade finishes but possessed significant potential with its tall ceilings, exposed bricks, and a gorgeous terrace. The collaboration between Leena and Molly began during the closing of the apartment sale, fostering a strong connection from the outset. Leena's international lifestyle, with residences in New York, London, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia, influenced the design, as she frequently sent Molly ideas gathered from her travels. The design philosophy integrated a classic New York aesthetic with Parisian influences, culminating in a space tailored to Leena's unique tastes rather than being moderated for a broader audience. Molly highlighted the freedom of designing for an individual, allowing for a celebration of her client's identity. A significant aspect of the design involved incorporating Leena's interest in the divine feminine, the female form's strength, and her nature as a dreamer. An example of this is the mural in her bedroom, which was inspired by a dream she had about a waterfall cascading over a woman, brought to life to be a daily source of inspiration. This creative synergy enabled the realization of highly personalized elements throughout the apartment. The apartment is described as a 'feminine goddess sanctuary,' with each room possessing its own distinct 'magic' and feeling like a 'jewel.' Comfort and beauty were paramount, achieved through inviting elements like sheepskin armchairs and plump sofas, creating a soft and feminine ambiance. Live-edge wood shelving and terrace foliage were incorporated to bring natural elements indoors. The bathrooms feature zellige tiles, chosen for their unique textures and ability to evoke a spa-like, escapist atmosphere. Leena's passion for Arab history, forgotten Arab queens, and various cultures and fictional worlds also played a crucial role in the design. Historical elements are thoughtfully integrated throughout the apartment. A collection of her fairy tales, framed by Ilana Lobet, creates an arresting display on the exposed brick walls of the dining area, with over 75 unique pieces. The furniture in the main living space was specifically chosen to be light and movable, accommodating Leena's love for tango dancing and large-scale painting. The project not only resulted in a personalized sanctuary but also fostered a firm friendship between the client and the designer. Molly Torres Portnof shared insights into her design choices, highlighting the joy in Leena's appreciation for the apartment. She pointed to enlarging the terrace doors as a small change with a huge impact, significantly increasing light and life within the space. Her preferred color palette includes golden mustard with deep purples and greens, and she draws inspiration from Australian designers like Tali Roth and Flack Studio. Her favorite building, the Empire State Building, even influenced her company's name, 'Designing A Tiny Empire.' She also recommended the Demolition Depot in Harlem as a hidden gem for unique finds, emphasizing her attachment to her rug collection, which she views as 'pieces of art on our floors' that tell stories. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #ArtistHome #FeminineDesign #CustomInteriors #ExposedBrick #UpperWestSide #DATEInteriors #LeenaNasser

Rodney Lawrence, an ELLE DECOR A-List designer, developed a model apartment in The Cortland, a new luxury development in West Chelsea, New York City. The building, designed by Robert A.M. Stern, features a historic feel with over a million hand-laid bricks, inspired by the iconic London Terrace. The interior architecture by Olson Kundig maintains a restrained aesthetic with rigorous lines and a limited palette, including an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, marble fireplaces, and high-end finishes like hand-brushed artisanal Italian metallic lacquer and Statuario Belgia marble. Lawrence aimed to infuse nature into this structured environment, departing from the base design while respecting its spirit. He researched Olson Kundig’s projects, noting their tendency to feature minimal structures set within natural landscapes. His goal was to bring this natural essence indoors, specifically for a hypothetical young family seeking cool yet approachable design. His design strategy for the 1,500-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath apartment focused on incorporating a multitude of colors and layered organic shapes. The combined living and dining area exemplifies this approach with curvaceous silhouettes. Key elements include a custom sofa in a velvety Élitis fabric, a Crate & Barrel three-legged cocktail table, and dining chairs from Burke Decor. A custom banquette elegantly snakes around the dining space, highlighting the multi-functional aspect of modern living, where the dining table can double as a workspace and a console as a desk or bar. To seamlessly connect the living and dining zones, Lawrence utilized subtle design cues. He selected a chain-link chandelier from Trueing Studio, strategically hanging its glass link chains so that each bulb illuminated a focal point in both areas. A custom ombré gradient wallpaper from Trove was commissioned, creating an illusion of distant water or fog. Lawrence explained that this was a deliberate choice to establish an internal horizon within the apartment, as the exterior view primarily consisted of other buildings. In the main bedroom, the horizon theme continues with a "floating" platform bed illuminated from behind its custom headboard. The wall behind the bed is upholstered in an azure satin fabric from Coraggio, a color echoed in the lacquered, built-in side tables. Curvaceous forms are also present in the channel-tufted banquette nestled into the bay window and in a pair of pendant lamps by Brooklyn artist Yuko Nishikawa. A charcoal drawing by the late Belgian-American artist Jan Yoors, a special print arranged through his estate, hangs above a textured credenza from Burke Decor. The children’s room is designed with a playful sea theme, featuring a fort-like bunk bed and a dedicated work area. The walls are covered in a wave-textured material and adorned with 3D-printed fish that create a sense of movement. Jellyfish paper lamps dangle from the ceiling, and plump poufs from RH provide a buoy-like effect. A rug by Trish Andersen Studio serves as an abstract coral reef. Lawrence acknowledged that the recent lockdown significantly influenced his design, shaping both space allocation and decor choices. The design emphasizes comfort and ample space for families, reflecting new priorities for homeowners. The model apartment's dreamy design can be replicated in other units with similar layouts within The Cortland. #luxuryRealEstate #interiorDesign #modelApartment #ombreDesign #rodneyLawrence #newYorkCity #designInspiration #architecturalDesign #homeDecor

Architect Luki Anderson of Studio Officina undertook a significant renovation of a 1905 Clinton Hill duplex in Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two children, sought a functional overhaul and a vibrant color palette, moving away from the home's original beige aesthetic. Anderson's initial assessment revealed the owners' existing affinity for color through their textiles and art, with the kitchen cabinets even being self-painted with colorful knobs as an early attempt to personalize the space. The primary goals for the renovation included expanding the kitchen and adding a third room to the lower garden level. The existing kitchen was found to be worn out and functionally inefficient. After exploring various layouts, Anderson devised a U-shaped kitchen configuration to maximize counter space and cabinetry, while keeping the sink and stove in their original positions. An unnecessary hallway behind the kitchen was re-purposed to expand the space, accommodating pantry cabinets, a refrigerator, and a coffee bar niche on the opposite wall. This design strategy ensured that the space felt open and avoided overwhelming the area with excessive cabinetry, creating a dedicated coffee or children's lunch preparation zone away from the main cooking area. The lower level of the duplex, which initially comprised two bedrooms and two bathrooms, was also part of the renovation. The previous layout was deemed inefficient, with an imbalance of space. Anderson reconfigured the bathrooms and enhanced the primary suite by adding a proper closet, replacing a wall of wardrobes. A key addition to this level was a flexible room designed to serve as both an office and a guest bedroom. This multi-functional space was equipped with custom-built storage, an integrated desk, and a Murphy bed to optimize its utility. Throughout the renovation, a strong emphasis was placed on integrating color, specifically the clients' preferred blue and green hues, alongside vibrant oranges and reds. This decision was influenced by Anderson's previous work, known for its colorful designs, despite her own home being predominantly white. The design incorporated colorful elements in various areas, such as orange-red triangle tiles and a floral wallpaper in the foyer, brightly painted Farrow & Ball's Pea Flower Tea kitchen cabinets, and a striking red Kappa tile backsplash in the kitchen niche. The children's bathroom features lively Rio Belize tile and Arctic White subway tile with custom white oak vanity and colorful zinc alloy pulls, while the kids' bedroom showcases a two-tone wall with Benjamin Moore's Baltimore Sky and Superwhite. In the primary suite, an almost black hue, Farrow & Ball's Railings, was combined with Benjamin Moore's Superwhite, and the bathroom boasts white and green wall tiles, alongside blue Pixel floor tiles. Anderson highlighted the importance of balancing these bold color choices with neutral tones at eye level to prevent the spaces from feeling overwhelming. This approach aimed to deliver a home that exuded joy and reflected the clients' desire for a colorful, personalized living environment. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #DuplexApartment #Brooklyn #BeforeAndAfter #StudioOfficina