FEATUREED IN NYC COTTAGES & GARDENS/ TRIBECA PIED-A-TERRE

As we celebrate our 25th year in business, I'm thrilled to reflect on one of our favorite projects. To me, the key to success is establishing a great rapport with clients. When there's mutual trust and positive energy, everything falls into place beautifully.

This project was a true testament to the power of joyful collaboration. The clients, a happy couple who had just become empty nesters after marrying off their children, were looking for a pied-a-terre that would serve as a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tribeca. Since both of their newlywed children lived nearby, they wanted a cozy space where they could all come together, visit and unwind.

The challenge was to create a design that combined bold, exuberant colors with a sophisticated style that conveyed a sense of understated luxury and comfort. The result was a space that radiated joy, happiness, and tranquility, perfectly suited to the client's needs and personalities.

The foyer reflects the owner’s love of color and gives you a glimpse of what’s to come.

This exuberant, colorful living room was designed with the wonderful personalities of the clients in mind.

The living room shines like a jewel. The starting point of the design started with this gorgeous Tibetan Rug! Bold, colorful , fun and alive!

Blues and greens with a splash of exotic Spring flowers add to the drama.

Vintage vessels and vases add soul and character to the space. The linen drapery lets the soft light filter through and defines the space..

Vintage finds and antiques mix with wonderful bold patterns and color, bringing a sense of of harmony to the living room.

Soft grasscloth , a custom bar reflecting light with antique mirror and an ombre ottoman are all married together to form an intimate space.

The kitchen is wide open and serves as a gathering spot for both family and friends.

We kept the textured wall covering, handmade cashmere rug, and drapery soft and soothing to set a tone of utter tranquility.

We added touches of whimsy to keep the mood lighthearted…

Art, soft textures and beautiful patterns all come together to form a sexy oasis in the primary bedroom.

The home office was designed for a sophisticated lady who loves soft muted ombre tones giving this space a dreamlike ambience.

The guest room is sheathed in a soft floral wallpaper where tension is created with the rough texture of this sea grass rug against both the wall covering and the soft velvet of the bed.

SANDS POINT DREAM HOUSE RENOVATION

When one of our wonderful repeat clients called and said they just bought this 1950’s mid-century modern house, we were very excited to get started on the gut renovation

This home sits high on a hill overlooking the Long Island Sound with water views from every room of this 4 Br, 5 Bath retreat on over 2 acres of land In The Heart Of Sands Point.

We came up with a new 21st century modern luxurious architectural plan, updating every room in the house. We worked to make it a forever home with smart technology, energy efficiency, and zen beauty.

We also incorporated a new landscaping plan. and an infinity pool…. What we never expected was building this home in the middle of a pandemic, with all kinds of shutdowns and delays…

After three and a half long years these are the photos of the new house. We might have to wait a couple of more years until all the interior decorating is finalized. So for now, enjoy these photos showing all of our design choices for flooring, moldings, fireplaces, bathrooms, primary closets, and an amazing chef’s kitchen. As they say… “it’s all in the details! “

This house was designed with harmony and tranquility in mind incorporating the beautiful outdoors.

Blackened steel windows, huge stone multi-colored walls, wood siding and copper details were all designed to give this house a sense of 21st century modernism.

The new huge front door is stained a dark blackened brown color , giving a sense of excitement to what lays ahead…

New poured concrete floors, a stainless steel staircase and white oak shiplap ceilings (punctuated with steel) were all part of this modern gut renovation. It’s all in the details!

Poured concrete floors with a blazing fire welcome you into the new living room. We designed this home with a Zen sensibility marrying the inside with the outdoors.

This Arabescato marble fireplace sets the welcoming tone to the living room. The chandelier references the Zen simplicity of the house and the leaves outside.

The round dining room table and comfy leather chairs are conducive to great conversation, the crystal drops on the chandelier reference the water view.

What can be more beautiful than this view overlooking the Long Island Sound over any meal in this house?

This Chef’s kitchen has it all. Italian Walnut hand planed cabinetry, and a stainless and a leather Python marble countertop! Let the cooking begin!

Wall ovens are flanked by hand-planed walnut cabinets that light up all interior shelves. The suspension lights over the island mimic candles when lit in the evening.

The mosaic terrazzo floor was custom made to fit perfectly, The sapphire blue faucet handles and rock crystal sconces add a little bling to the Powder Room!

The new fireplace separates and defines the two distinct areas, the bedroom, and the huge closet. The floors are white oak planks, the bed and nightstands float giving the space a sense of lightness and simplicity.

We carved out a niche for the Primary bed and clad the head board with a sumptuous blush colored leather.

Wonderful bedside table lamps and art and soft sheer window panels will complete this space.

We designed this closet with luxury in mind. The window seat and ottoman are covered in a soft textured blush fabric to keep the area light and airy.

Each closet opens up to lit leather interiors .

The centerpiece of the closet is this gorgeous rock crystal chandelier which will light up the space in the evenings.

We designed the shower wall and floor with this incredible Thassos marble mosaic. The result is a peaceful luxurious oasis to dream in.

Closeup of the soaking tub and Thassos mosaic floors. The tub filler is floor mounted.

We wanted all of the fittings in this Primary bathroom to look like beautiful jewelry !

The fireplace wall was clad with handmade Moroccan tile. This downstairs game room will have a bar with a copper countertop and a copper-colored mirror.

This game room will have a Moroccan theme with a pool table and built- in bar.

This game room leads to the infinity pool and beautiful landscaped gardens.

The cabana bath has porcelain tile that mimics the waves outside in the Long island Sound.

The cabana/mudroom sits just opposite this bathroom with a very detailed wallpaper depiction of fish. Everything here floats just like the water.

Another downstairs bathroom serves as the guest bath. The porcelain tile mimics a grasscloth wallpaper on the floating vanity wall.

The shower walls are clad with a two dimensional tile that fit together like a puzzle.

Textured geometric tile surround this guest shower.

The new exterior of the house faces the infinity pool and the beautiful new landscaping.

The whole exterior was meant to harmonize with the incredible backyard which leads directly to the Long Island Sound. The pool was completely redesigned to flow into the Bacchi Court.

The backyard was designed with many outdoor lights strategically placed to light up the path to the water.

The balconies were designed with the same flooring, staircase and shiplap ceilings to bring the outdoors in . We wanted a continuance of product to make the spaces seamless .

Finally the view from the hill a top this Sands Point modern retreat!

CONTEMPORARY TRADITIONAL CONDO

Once in a while I get to design a new project that I find really exciting. This was one of them. Usually I work with homeowners that want a very modern sleek approach to design, which is great. However, when I get to do something new and out of the ordinary, I find it exciting and refreshing. This lovely lady wanted a bright, colorful and more traditional space. I was able to implement some of my favorite things - color, pattern, texture, and layering. The result is a condo in the sky that I think turned out quite lovely! It is light filled, fun, airy and happy. And my client feels the same exact way!

Photography by Jonathan Beckerman

In the living room we utilized a fun Paris themed wallpaper, a custom mohair covered traditional sofa , and lots of layered patterns and color. We also incorporated many vintage and antique accessories.

In the living room we utilized a fun Paris themed wallpaper, a custom mohair covered traditional sofa , and lots of layered patterns and color. We also incorporated many vintage and antique accessories.

We filled the built-in bookcase with books, personal items and antiques, and styled the books according to color. The vintage mirror brings character and more light to the room.

We filled the built-in bookcase with books, personal items and antiques, and styled the books according to color. The vintage mirror brings character and more light to the room.

This rug was the starting point for the room. The geometric pattern plays off of the strie fabric on the club chairs and the linen wrapped parsons coffee table. The Mongolian wool stool brings a fun touch of contrasting texture to the room.

This rug was the starting point for the room. The geometric pattern plays off of the strie fabric on the club chairs and the linen wrapped parsons coffee table. The Mongolian wool stool brings a fun touch of contrasting texture to the room.

A playful Paris city scene wallpaper contrasts the colorful floral pillows. Crystal table lamps bring a sparkle to the room.

A playful Paris city scene wallpaper contrasts the colorful floral pillows. Crystal table lamps bring a sparkle to the room.

Pattern, stripes and bright color make the dining area sing!

Pattern, stripes and bright color make the dining area sing!

A mid-century modern chandelier casts a warm glow over this intimate dining area.

A mid-century modern chandelier casts a warm glow over this intimate dining area.

In the bedroom, the request was to make it light filled, happy and colorful.

In the bedroom, the request was to make it light filled, happy and colorful.

French flowers on the wallpaper play against the patterns on the rug, drapery and chair. It’s all about mixing color and pattern. Antique and vintage pieces always add character.

French flowers on the wallpaper play against the patterns on the rug, drapery and chair. It’s all about mixing color and pattern. Antique and vintage pieces always add character.

A pop of color draws the eye!

A pop of color draws the eye!

Flowers, flowers everywhere…

Flowers, flowers everywhere…

It’s all in the details.

It’s all in the details.

A FASHION FORWARD NEW INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT IN CHELSEA FOR THE NEW FALL SEASON

I love talking about some of my favorite interior design projects.  I just completed a new one in Chelsea, a lovely,  storied NYC neighborhood with a decent amount of newly constructed or adapted modern residences, like this one. What makes this one different from most is that the elevator opens right into the apartment. This fun project for a fantastic client took about a year from start to finish.

This space was conceived for a family with two young children. The only initial directives were to design a welcoming entry with a "wow factor" to set the tone and to transform what was a somewhat boring living / dining room into a cool, colorful, and comfortable space for the whole family and guests to enjoy. 

There are a lot of musicians in this family, the custom wall unit was built to house 5 guitars in addition to a television and bar. In the end, the piano was the only piece left over from the old space. I'm thrilled that this charming musical family is as happy as I am with the outcome of their new open living area! 

The elevator entrance opens to a warm welcome. Lush, textural eggplant hued suede wallcovering was applied to the main entry wall to make the sconces and painting pop. An impossibly soft faux fur covered custom New York Interior Design bench provide…

The elevator entrance opens to a warm welcome. Lush, textural eggplant hued suede wallcovering was applied to the main entry wall to make the sconces and painting pop. An impossibly soft faux fur covered custom New York Interior Design bench provides the posh perch to take off snow boots or put on a pair of perfect pumps. 

A custom designed glass tile mosaic at the end of the hallway makes this entry sparkle and feel visually larger.

A custom designed glass tile mosaic at the end of the hallway makes this entry sparkle and feel visually larger.

Everything in this living/dining area was designed with the clients in mind. From the bold floral wallpaper (which inspired the entire space) to soft mohair seating and inviting ombre stripes, color & geometric shapes abound. 

Everything in this living/dining area was designed with the clients in mind. From the bold floral wallpaper (which inspired the entire space) to soft mohair seating and inviting ombre stripes, color & geometric shapes abound. 

With an iridescent pendant chandelier lighting the way with bold pattern and color , dinners will never be boring! 

With an iridescent pendant chandelier lighting the way with bold pattern and color , dinners will never be boring! 

This wall unit was custom built to fit some amazing musical instruments. We included a mirrored bar to house family heirloom glassware and some antiques from travels around the globe. 

This wall unit was custom built to fit some amazing musical instruments. We included a mirrored bar to house family heirloom glassware and some antiques from travels around the globe. 

Precious Heirlooms and favorite drinks sparkle against these glass shelves. Hammered metal pulls add the finishing touch .

Precious Heirlooms and favorite drinks sparkle against these glass shelves. Hammered metal pulls add the finishing touch .

Color, pattern and metal tones are repeated around the room. Different shapes and scale are used to keep the visual momentum going. 

Color, pattern and metal tones are repeated around the room. Different shapes and scale are used to keep the visual momentum going. 

This snake skin and metal vintage glass side table along with fresh crabtree branches add color and texture.  

This snake skin and metal vintage glass side table along with fresh crabtree branches add color and texture.  

There is nothing like fresh Dahlias to bring color and life to a room. These beauties pull in tones from the floral wallpaper.

There is nothing like fresh Dahlias to bring color and life to a room. These beauties pull in tones from the floral wallpaper.

 

 

 

 

Designing In Stages For a Growing Family

 
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This NYC Penthouse apartment in the Chelsea Mercantile building was renovated and decorated over a few years time.  My clients wanted a beautiful space to raise their two small children.  The apartment had to be practical for this young family and their dog. The caveat? They still wanted a cool downtown vibe. 

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THE OPEN LIVING + DINING AREA

The first order of business was redesigning the lighting scheme in the living room and updating and redecorating the existing open living room and dining area. We revamped the lighting by employing two lighting fixtures as the main focal points - a huge contemporary chandelier in the main living room and one simple, yet sophisticated, pendant over the dining table. Then we added cove lighting around the perimeter of the room. We sheathed the walls in a very textural metallic grasscloth. The fireplace mantle was custom designed by New York Interior Design and completely reconstructed utilizing a Carrara marble. The drapery panels add a finishing touch to the space,  rich color and pattern, and a frame around the incredible view.

The dining area came next. We custom made the marble slab dining table. Then we added visual dimension and reflection of the view with an asymmetrical mirror.

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THE MASTER BEDROOM

The most challenging aspect of this project came when the new baby was on its way, and we reconfigured a tiny nursery out of a pretty large master bedroom closet. The master bedroom itself was redesigned to be an urban sanctuary that's just a bit sexy. Mixing lush textiles, contemporary patterns, and a soothing palette created the perfect vibe - playful and inviting, yet all grown up. Carefully designed built-ins lining the master bedroom maximized space and gave my clients back their closet. Keeping with the glamorous feel, the floor to ceiling built-ins were topped with dramatic crown moulding and jewelry-like hardware.

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THE BATH

The following year it was time for a gut renovation of the bathroom. This bathroom is for both the kids and guests. The bathtub was banished in favor of a custom shower. The huge faux carrara marble tiles (a dream to maintain) coordinate and lend continuity with the other marbles in the apartment. We gave the clients a flexible, family-friendly bath with a clean modern look and the luxe glam sensibility they wanted. 

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THE KITCHEN

Lastly, it was time for the major gut renovation of the kitchen. This new eat-in kitchen design was all about the gorgeous Arabescato Vagli marble, as well as the new tufted custom banquette. The cabinets were custom designed in a charcoal gray color to both enhance and compliment the marble. The crystal lighting on the banquette wall was meant to give the room a little bling. Beyond the beauty, optimizing storage and work space is always a must in NYC kitchens, and this one was designed for the challenges of a busy urban family. Now both children and parents are comfortable and happy in their newly redesigned apartment in the sky! 

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Photo Credit: Beckerman Photography

A DAY IN THE FLATIRON DISTRICT

In case you are not from NYC, or you haven't been down to the FlatIron District in NYC, this is truly an Interior Design destination. Below are some of my favorite (secret) shopping showrooms, and restaurants.  Some of the showrooms are To The Trade Only, others are retail shops... Enjoy!! 

 

CITY BAKERY

CITY BAKERY

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HOMENATURE

CLASSIC FLATIRON ARCHITECTURE 

CLASSIC FLATIRON ARCHITECTURE 

HIGH STYLE DECO

HIGH STYLE DECO

HIGH STYLE DECO

HIGH STYLE DECO

DESIGN COLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

DESIGN COLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

DESIGN COLLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

DESIGN COLLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

DESIGN COLLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

DESIGN COLLECTIVE OF NEW YORK

RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI

PATRICK NAGGAR AT RALPH PUCCI

PATRICK NAGGAR AT RALPH PUCCI

RALPH PUCCI 

RALPH PUCCI 

PATRICK NAGGAR AT RALPH PUCCI 

PATRICK NAGGAR AT RALPH PUCCI 

ART AT RALPH PUCCI 

ART AT RALPH PUCCI 

ABC HOME

ABC HOME

ABC HOME

ABC HOME

AKDO TILE

AKDO TILE

THE CHIHULY EXHIBIT

If you haven't had a chance to get to the Chihuly exhibit at the NY Botanical Garden, you should go! We went at dusk, just as the summer light was fading.. What a wonderful and inspirational sight! The Seattle-based artist returns to the Bronx with an explosion of light and color that takes over the garden’s spilling over into its expansive grounds.

Dale Chihuly shows his art in his first major garden exhibition in New York in more than ten years. There are 20 installations set within NYBG’s landmark landscapes.  

“Many of my forms are inspired by nature,” said Chihuly of the appeal of showing his work in botanical settings. “Putting them into gardens feels right to me. I love the idea that people may ask themselves ‘is it manmade or is it natural?'” 

Photo Credit: Victor Ancelson 

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FALL INTO FASHION 2017

Fall is slowly but surely creeping up on us! Even though we are sad to see the summer go, I must admit, the excitement for fall fashion has taken over... The fashion world and Interior design world are always connected. They come hand in hand, season by season. Take a look at our two shopping days, one in the fashion market and the other in the interior design market, for early fall trends.. same styles...same trends...Fall 2017!!!

 

Neiman Marcus- Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus- Fall 2017

Jiun Ho Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

Jiun Ho Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Juin Ho Showroom - 200 Lex- Fall 2017

Juin Ho Showroom - 200 Lex- Fall 2017

Profiles Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

Profiles Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Brett Design Wallpaper @ Bradley Showroom - 200 Lex

Brett Design Wallpaper @ Bradley Showroom - 200 Lex

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Kelly Wearstler Showroom - 200 Lex - fall 2017

Kelly Wearstler Showroom - 200 Lex - fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Neiman Marcus - Fall 2017

Brett Fabric @ Bradley Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

Brett Fabric @ Bradley Showroom - 200 Lex - Fall 2017

A HOME ...THREE YEARS IN THE MAKING

Once in awhile I am lucky enough to have the opportunity to get in on the ground floor when it comes to constructing a brand new home for a lovely family. This amazing project was my ideal. 

We started planning this light-filled, 6,100-square-foot dream home in Roslyn New York, three years ago. This was a team effort. From the drawings by esteemed architect Michael Wallin to the actual building by Robert Beer everything was a collaboration.

My clients basically knew what they wanted ... a forever home that was luxurious yet suitable for their two young children and two loving dogs. They wanted a unique one-of -a- kind modern home that was equally sophisticated yet young and fun. My job was to make sure they were happy, comfortable & excited by the design. 

The following are a few of the rooms completed so far... 

Photo Credit : Beckerman Photography 

 

FRONT VIEW

FRONT VIEW

THE BREAKFAST ROOM 

THE BREAKFAST ROOM 

THE KITCHEN

THE KITCHEN

THE MUD POWDER ROOM

THE MUD POWDER ROOM

THE FAMILY ROOM 

THE FAMILY ROOM 

THE POWDER ROOM

THE POWDER ROOM

THE MASTER BATH

THE MASTER BATH

THE MASTER BATHROOM

THE MASTER BATHROOM

THE MASTER SHOWER

THE MASTER SHOWER

COOL GIRL"S ROOM

COOL GIRL"S ROOM

GIRL'S BATHROOM

GIRL'S BATHROOM

BOY'S BATHROOM 

BOY'S BATHROOM 

 

 

 

A TASTE OF SUMMER....

Finally, summer is here!!!  Every New Yorker seems happier! Not only are we feeling it on this beautiful day in New York but we are feeling it in the New York Design Center too #nydc . Vibrant fabric colors filling the showrooms on sofas and chairs, new combinations are here to stay.. Colors are HOT and sultry or pastel and soft... Let's all have a fun and exciting summer ....

Color is an essential aspect of Interior Design

PINK CURVED SOFA AT BRADLEY SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

PINK CURVED SOFA AT BRADLEY SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

BRIGHT YELLOW CHAIR AT BRUETON SHOWROOM  - 200 LEX

BRIGHT YELLOW CHAIR AT BRUETON SHOWROOM  - 200 LEX

STRIPED CHAIR AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

STRIPED CHAIR AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

FUSCHIA CHAISE AT KGBL SHOWROOM- 200 LEX

FUSCHIA CHAISE AT KGBL SHOWROOM- 200 LEX

CORAL SOFA AT KGBL SHOWROOM- 200 LEX

CORAL SOFA AT KGBL SHOWROOM- 200 LEX

PURPLE STOOL AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

PURPLE STOOL AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

GREEN SOFA AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

GREEN SOFA AT KGBL SHOWROOM - 200 LEX

NEW PROJECT FOR A NEW SEASON

Once in awhile, I am lucky enough to be asked to design a space in a NYC building that I adore. Huys is just such a building.  Located in the heart of NoMad , on Park Ave South, Huys is a neoclassical building dating from 1917.  This building underwent a huge conversion from commercial offices to 58 luxurious and elegantly detailed condominiums .  It was designed by the world-renowned Piet Boon . This charming apartment is a pied a terre for a lovely couple that actually live upstate NY. I am very proud of how it turned out. I very much enjoyed designing the interiors, I hope you enjoy seeing the results! 

Soft tones in this  comfy living room accentuate the view 

Soft tones in this  comfy living room accentuate the view 

The walls of the dining room are covered in  textured squares..

The walls of the dining room are covered in  textured squares..

Drama in the powder room is evoked with this wallcovering that seems almost 3D 

Drama in the powder room is evoked with this wallcovering that seems almost 3D 

A Master Bedroom Dream 

A Master Bedroom Dream 

A soft serene place to relax 

A soft serene place to relax 

It's all in the details, soft gray suede walls envelope the master bedroom like a cocoon... 

It's all in the details, soft gray suede walls envelope the master bedroom like a cocoon... 

 Grasscloth walls , leather headboard  hide rug and distressed night stands all mix for high drama in this relaxing guest room..

 Grasscloth walls , leather headboard  hide rug and distressed night stands all mix for high drama in this relaxing guest room..

NEW PROJECT IN NOMAD, HUYS BUILDING

Located in the heart of NoMad , on Park Ave South, Huys is a neoclassical building dating from 1917, with neighboring stately mansions from NYC's Gilded Age. This building underwent a huge conversion from commercial offices to 58 luxurious and elegantly detailed condominiums . Developed by the prestigious Dutch Kroonenberg Groep, designed by the world-renowned Piet Boon and renovated by the well-established construction management firm Sciame. Huys is one of the my favorite buildings. This is one of the incredible apartments I was asked to design. The amazing iron windows and light brushed oak floors were already in place.  Photo Credit: Beckerman Photograpy

 

Color filled Living Room

Color filled Living Room

Master Bedroom with Grasscloth headboard wall 

Master Bedroom with Grasscloth headboard wall 

Close up of Master Bedroom 

Close up of Master Bedroom 

Sumptuous bedding is everything!  

Sumptuous bedding is everything!  

It's all in the details 

It's all in the details