Condos Go Couture ■ Brooklyn Blogger’s Brownstone ■ Wild on the Upper West Side
Fall 2010
Atoosa and Ari Rubenstein’s Flatiron loft undergoes a Urban Opulence dazzling and dramatic renovation
PUMPKIN armchair. Design: Pierre Paulin.
Live beautifully.
155 Wooster Street New York (212) 253-5629 www.lignerosetny.com 250 Park Avenue South New York (212) 375-1036 www.lignerosetny.com 4131 Main Street Philadelphia (215) 487-2800 www.rosetphilly.com
160 NE 40th Street Miami (305) 576-4662 www.lignerosetmiami.com BBDO
LR-10-069_NYObserver_Pumpkin.indd 1 9/29/10 10:42 AM MANHATTAN A&D Building 150 E. 58th St. 212.688.5990
96 Spring St. 212.680.9000
207 E. 119th St. 212.369.2000
LONG ISLAND 222 Rte. 109 Farmingdale 631.391.9506
75 Garden St. Westbury 516.997.9200
WESTCHESTER 369 Lexington Ave. Mt. Kisco 914.666.5127
QUEENS 57-22 49th St. 718.937.9500
IT’S THE PREMIERE OF SOMETHING PREMIER. Davis & Warshow unveils the world’s first next generation Kohler Premier Showroom in the A&D Building. This new showroom experience offers architects and designers a vibrant and exciting presentation of kitchen and bath products in an environment that encourages in-depth interaction. For over 85 years, architects and designers have relied on Davis & Warshow’s unparalleled service to help them achieve results that inspire. Stop by and experience it today.
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stickleyaudi.com Rock & roll memorabilia and decadent color treatment bring West Coast flavor to a California family’s 19th-century Contents brownstone in Park Slope (p. 66).
60 Family Style on the Upper East Side Businessman-turned-interior designer Philip Gorrivan’s family apartment is a touch of the 6th Arrondisement in the heart of Manhattan.
66 Park Slope Rock & Roll The Brooklyn Home Company infuses a young family’s Brooklyn brownstone with modern touches and sunny colors.
72 Sophisticated Rural Life Combining historically accurate adjust- ments with contemporary local finds, Betsey and Peter Nestler’s renovation was worth the 30-year wait.
A peek inside designer Philip Gorrivan’s glamorous and functional family home on the Upper East Side (p. 60). FEATURES 42 Urban Opulence Fashion favorites West Chin and Roseann Repetti give Atoosa Rubenstein and family a cover-ready look for a Flatiron loft.
50 Colonial Charm A Colonial-era inn off a Connecticut town green becomes a chic country home for Accessorize for fall with unexpected New York decorator Matthew Patrick color, texture and pattern (p. 10). Smyth and writer Jean Vallier.
56 Animal Kingdom Gregory Speck’s natural habitat on the Upper West Side is filled with creature comforts and comfortable creatures.
4 the home observer fall 2010 BANISH INSOMNIA
28 Wooster Street, SoHo, New York City www.savoirbeds.com 212 226 3640
SAVOIR BEDS SINCE 1905
New York Miami Austin Scottsdale Los Angeles Paris Prague Berlin London in the shops Iconic design 10 Light Refreshments 26 Grace, Space, Pace Marianne Rohrlich’s bright picks for Tim Street-Porter reflects on the styl- home accessories with fresh textures, ish reinvention of a classic British icon colors and patterns. with the new Jaguar XJ and XJL.
Profile on the shelves 14 Elissa Cullman of Cullman & Kravis 28 The Joy of Lapidus The renowned designer talks with A new book pays homage to the HOME about New York City living and forefather of boutique hotel design. the 2010 Kips Bay Show House. 34 Chez Castaing real estate The first comprehensive look at the 18 Condos Go Couture French decorator. Rebecca Morse tries on fashion 38 Star Gardens designers’ new looks in limestone A voyeur’s view into the Private and sheetrock. Condos go couture at the Zac Posen– Gardens of Connecticut. designed 16W21 (p. 18). in the kitchen in the neighborhood 24 Culinary Arts 80 Dual Purpose Make your kitchen a work of art with Every inch of the Dumbacher Questions about products Marianne Rohrlich’s selection of twins’ Hudson Street home featured in this issue? Email us at whimsical and useful culinary tools. [email protected] functions times two. images getty joseph; evan
T H H C A U E
L A. 70/71st | N Y, NY 10021 | T. .. | ..
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editorial Director Rebecca Morse
Flatfire Editors annie kelly and tim street-porter
Gas art director BARBARA SULLIVAN
production director Tyler Rush
advertising/production coordinator lisa medchill
Copy editor Chris cronis
contributors Emily gilbert Joshua Mchugh marianne rohrlich
Associate Publisher betty shaw lederman The HOme Observer
Account Managers Michelle Morgan David Wolff Wittus Inc. Sales Assistant Elana Delasos 914.764.5679 www.wittus.com Publisher Jared Kushner
editor, the New york observer kyle pope
President, Observer Media Group Christopher Barnes
Executive Vice President Barry Lewis
Senior Vice President sales Stephen Goldberg
Vice President sales marketing David Gursky
THE NEW YORK OBSERVER 321 West 44th Street New York, NY 10036 212.755.2400 www.observer.com
On the cover: Atoosa and Ari Rubenstein’s Flatiron loft, designed by architecture and interior design team West Chin and Roseann Repetti of West Chin Architect pllc. (WCA) and photographed by Joshua McHugh. In the living room, Steven Klein’s Madonna #01 (2006) presides over the statuary bronze fireplace re-envisioned byWCA . Peti- -*()5*/(#:(3&(03: tioning for permission to hang the custom Bocce chandelier (at Matter, 405 Broome Street) delayed the project by six months (well worth it!). The couple’s two-year-old daughter #PXFSZ /FX:PSL /: might be found curled up in the Smock swivel armchair by XXXMJHIUJOHCZHSFHPSZDPN Moroso (at Moroso, 146 Greene Street) or playing atop the velvety Corian-topped Jane table by FTF Design Studio, Inc., Chin and Repetti’s own furniture and design collection. The dazzling home is an ultimately livable one, where family fun and grown-up entertaining collide on the double-sided Metro 2 sofa by Piero Lissoni for Living Divani (at BY New York, 142 Greene Street). The full story starts on page 42.
8 the home observer fall 2010 NY OBSERVER .indd 2 17.09.2010 16:44:17 in the shops
Light Refreshments
It doesn’t take much to refresh a home for fall—a jolt of pattern, a dash of texture or a dab of color will do it. But choose wisely and be careful not to overdo: An infusion can become an invasion if there’s too much of it. At the end of the day, calm is still comfortable. marianne rohrlich
Alight The Hawk LED Light, designed by Maria Larsson and Maria Olevik, is made of bone china and stainless steel. $6,000 at Anthropol- Photo Process ogie. 50 Rockefeller A wallpaper pattern of photographs looking down on Center (50th Street), urban construction sites, taken by Raeanne Giovanni- Modernized 212-246-0386. Inoue. Rolls are 25-inches wide and 183-inches long. The classic Wassily chair designed in 1925 by $190 each from oandgstudio.com, 520-247-1820. Marcel Breuer looks brand new in bright colors like red, yellow or green leather. $2,020; from knoll.com, 800-343-5665.
Cozy Kinetic Static Pillow, 18-inches by 30-inches, made of wool and cotton, is $128. anthropologie.com, 800-309-2500.
Color Me The Trip Trumeau two-drawer dresser painted in multicolor stripes is $1,054 at the Future Perfect. 55 Great Jones Street (Bowery), 212-473- 2500, and thefutureperfect.com.
10 the home observer fall 2010 Rococo SplendoR The Rockefeller chippendale Bed
Sale 2350 lot 309
auction Calendar New York · October 2010
500 Years: Decorative Arts Europe, Prints & Multiples (#2351) Save the Date christies.com Including Oriental Carpets (#2350) October 26–27 October 21–22 don’t miss the next christie’s Interiors Viewing: october 22–25 sale on december 16–17, 2010 Viewing: october 16–20 Inquiries: Tudor davies Inquiries: Will Russell [email protected] [email protected] +1 212 636 2290 +1 212 636 2525
CHRISTIE’S NEW YORK 20 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020 REGISTRATION IS EASY Join us for the presale exhibitions and auctions, all of which are free and open to the Register to bid in person or by telephone by calling our Bid department at 212 636 2437. public Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 1pm-5pm. For specific viewing times, If you are unable to attend the auction, visit christies.com to arrange for absentee and please call 212 636 2000. online bids. Also available on christies.com are the international auction calendar, online catalogues, and a full listing of upcoming valuation days around the globe. in the shops
On Time Fall Foliage The Sliced Grandfather Clock is 3 inches tall and 17 inches wide; $40 at Mxyplyzyk. The Lehti Tray, made of flexible metal Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Circle; or mxyplyzyk.com, 800-243-9810. mesh, designed by Maria Jauhiainen, is in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art. It is 11 by 12 inches; $950 at Moss. 150 Greene Street (Houston Street), mossonline.com, 866-888-6677.
Cheers A pair of etched crys- tal glasses, Night Owl and Finch by Artel, is $298; the mouth-blown glasses are available at Natural thefutureperfect.com, The Blow-Up Citrus 877-388-7373. Basket, made of bamboo, was designed by the Campana Brothers; it is Table Dressing $112 at Alessi. 130 Greene Silicone placemats called Damask Bordeaux are Street (Prince Street), 14 inches by 16inches. $22 each from lekkerhome.com, 212-941-7300 or alessi- 877-753-5537. shop.com.
Be Seated: The Squint Oswald Sofa is upholstered in a patchwork of colorful fabrics (the coloring and patterns on each piece vary slightly). The 74-inch-long sofa has feather-filled cushions and costs $6,995 at the Conran Shop. 888 Broadway (19th Street) or conranusa.com, 866- 755-9079.
12 the home observer fall 2010 sento design . b. hoffmann & t. kühl Profile
a conversation: Elissa Cullman
by rebecca morse It was a failed attempt at a screenplay that sent Elissa Cullman and the late Hedi Kravis into the world of interior design; the producer whom the writing partners approached turned down the duo’s script, but was so inspired by their sumptuous descriptions of rooms that he hired them to refurbish his country house. Twenty-six years later, Cullman & Kravis is a world-renowned interior design firm famed A Fifth Avenue pied- for its English-inspired aesthetic and its work à-terre designer by Cullman & Kravis. with art and antique collections. The co-author of the seminal Decorating Master Class, Ellie Cullman has appeared on Architectural Digest’s a mudroom! We all want an extra space with Best “instant fix.” authoritative “AD 100” list for the last 10 years ample-sized cubbies for soccer cleats and golf Paint! A fresh coat of paint really makes a space and has been dubbed a “Dean of American De- clubs, lots of hooks for extra coats (because in feel renewed and is a cost effective way to make sign” by the magazine. The firm’s current proj- New York, our coats are our cars), a dedicated a major difference. Lampshades! Change your ects include an Upper East Side space for the dog crate and the cat lampshades—especially if you have dark green or duplex penthouse with 5,000 box and easy access to the laundry black ones in a room that needs more light. If you square feet of outdoor space room. We are more than willing to change all of your shades to uniform off-white and a shingle-style house in trade the house in the suburbs for linen, you will notice an immediate, uplifting Sagaponack—as well as a room the cultural opportunities of New effect. There is also nothing more cathartic for in the annually anticipated Kips York City, but it would be really me than to redo every book shelf and tabletop— Bay Designer Show House, nice to have the extra room. I call it “Apartment Therapy.” Table tops, like open this year from October bookcases, must be arranged and organized with 14 through November 11 at 106 How has the way we live as thought. Start by taking everything down, and East 71st Street, a townhouse New Yorkers changed over the then carefully put it back, looking at each shelf currently on the market for course of your career? and every surface as if for the first time. Keep in Elissa Cullman $28.8 million. Observer Home of Cullman & Kravis Like everywhere else, our lives mind that every tabletop deserves the same con- talked with native New Yorker have changed in so many ways siderations as the floor plan of a room to create a Cullman (whose father was the longtime owner because of technology. Flat-screen televi- cosmos of form, material and color. of steakhouse Peter Luger’s) about inspira- sions, “Wi-Fi”, and “smart house” systems tions—and designing for New York living. that are accessed from our Black Berrys have Favorite local shopping source or haunt. altered our expectations and convinced us Here’s a designer’s secret: We absolutely love How does your experience as a lifelong New that whatever we want can be instantaneously the antiques “supermarkets” in Stamford, Con- Yorker inform your process? achieved—and with a minimum of interfer- necticut. Just a short train or car ride away, they I approach every project from many points of ence in our lives. In home design, clients are are really worth the trip. [Ellie’s Stamford picks: view, and my process is informed by my experi- asking for easy access to all of these. We often Antique and Artisan Center, Greenwich Living ence as a designer, an art and antiques enthusi- install flat screens in every room, including the Antiques and Design Center, Hampton Antique ast, a wife and mother and, of course, as a New living room in the over-the-mantle spot that Galleries, Harborview, Hidden Galleries.] Yorker. As all of these, I truly understand that it was previously reserved for a precious piece is often a challenge to live here. One enormous of art or for a fine antique mirror, not only be- Favorite catalogs or large chain home fur- constraint in New York is that while we have cause few New Yorkers can afford the luxury nishing stores you find inspiring. every resource imaginable, space is at a pre- of an unused living room, but also because We’ve been ordering a lot from the new “inex-
mium. The fact is that every New Yorker wants they want to be “plugged in” all of the time. pensive” catalogs such as Global Views, Bun- saylor durston
14 the home observer fall 2010 EST 1926
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914.633.5853 Where do you go to be inspired in New York? I love to walk around the city and look at all of the exterior architecture and ornamentation. With the camera on my Black Berry, I can take terrific pictures and notes on what I see. We actually used some of these photos as inspiration for two patterns in our new fabric collection with Holland & Sherry—a brick pattern from a building on the Upper East Side and a curvilinear design from ironwork on the Lower East Side. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how much I enjoy sitting in the international departure lounge at J.F.K. From New York, I can go anywhere in the world, and I always find travel tremendously inspiring.
Tell us about your room at Kips Bay this year. We [decorated] the Dining Room ... at 106 East 71st Street for Kips Bay this year. [I] am a passionate foodie, and I have conceived this room as a celebration of food and dining. Called “Dinner at Eight,” our design honors eight of the great chefs of New York City: Mario Batali, April Bloomfield, Daniel Boulud, David Chang, Anita Lo, Eric Ripert, Michael Romano and Marcus Samuelsson. The artworks in the room are wild. We’ve included a whimsical 7-foot sculpture of cooking pots, a 21-inch bright blue ice cream pop and a “portrait” of a typical New York City slice of pizza. I hope everyone will come to the Show House this year to support a terrific organization and to see all of the fabulous rooms
decorated by some of New York’s greatest decorators. saylor durston
16 the home observer fall 2010 KITCHEN
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AFNY_HomeObserver.indd 1 10/6/10 3:58:11 PM real estate
THE ALDYN Condos Go For the new development at 60 Riverside Boulevard (far right), von Couture Furstenberg dressed a model—a model apartment, that is—in her by rebecca morse signature fabric line. Below, Tiffany This weekend, 70 to 100 people will trek & Co.’s Lambertson Truex draped a through the plastic-wrapped lobby of The Al- room in a ready-to-live look. dyn, an Upper West Side development so new that the offering plan has yet to be approved. What’s bringing them to the banks of the Hudson? A show house, New York style: four 14th-floor waterview apartments sport décor by household name designers. Nate Burkus? Mar- tha Stewart? Not quite. It’s fashion designers from Elie Tahari to Diane von Furstenberg who have catwalked on up from Seventh Avenue to dress models—model apartments, that is—in ready-to-live looks reminiscent of the design- ers’ own runway collections. “The attention that the showrooms have brought has been un- precedented,” said Larry Kruysman of Corcoran Sunshine, who is managing sales for The Aldyn. The show “house,” open through December, “has opened the eyes of the public.” It’s one thing to have fashionistas place fur- niture, but what happens if you let them at the kitchen cabinets and bathroom fixtures?
Forty-odd blocks south of The Aldyn, Zac Pos- ImAGES. GETTY JOSEPH; EVAN
18 the home observer fall 2010 2 1 2 . 3 0 8 . 2 2 7 5
LAad9_10Observer.indd 1 9/28/10 9:11 PM real estate
en has come off the rack at 16W21, a new nine- unit glass-faced condominium in the Ladies’ Mile Historic District. A chic Hollywood favorite— Gwyneth Paltrow has worn Posen to the Oscars, Tiny Fey to the 2010 Golden Globes—Posen’s influence didn’t stop at temporary model apart- ments. 16W21 and each of is residences feature couture touches like Posen-designed molded stair rails and a Posen-customized kitchen cabi- net color (teal). Steven Ivankovich of Gruppo C’E, the Monaco-based real estate firm behind the project, told Home that a “brilliant aesthetic eye” like Zac’s “can easily be applied to fashion, interiors and across many artistic applications.” Fashion designers creating apartment interi- ors? Ring, ring! Sounds like 2005 calling. But surprisingly, this real estate phenomenon, reminiscent of pre-Lehman days, might just have supermodel-length legs—at least ac- cording to Michael Shvo, the man who gets (and gives himself) credit for being the first to marry fashion and interior design. “You definitely have—when you deal with these designers—a longevity.” Shvo should know. He was behind what was perhaps Manhat- tan’s first project to take fashion designers out of the studio and into the studio apartment: 20 Pine, dubbed “The Collection”—a FiDi condo designed by Armani/Casa, where residents can enjoy an hamman and each apartment features the kitchen equivalent of an Armani suit, where any- thing as mundane as an oven is discreeted away in walnut-stained wood as lush and tan as Mr. Armani himself. 20 Pine’s price tags have been marked down since its opening (lawsuits by dis- gruntled buyers and an eighth-inning developer switch hasn’t helped), but according to reports, it’s 90 percent sold. 16W21 Also still wearable is “The Jade” at 16 West Zac Posen’s designs for 19th Street, with interiors designed by Jade Jag- the Flatiron condo includ- ger, a jewelry designer with a genetic bohemian ed a couture paint color style courtesy of parents Mick and Bianca. Jag- for kitchen cabinets and ger was commissioned to design a building that mullan custom stair rails. Posen, targeted, says Shvo, “younger, successful females who dresses Hollywood’s and couples,” and she personally selected design A-list from Gwyneth features from finishes to colors schemes. She Paltrow to Claire Danes, also, of course, picked the pods: The Jade’s sig- found the project “incred- nature is its “pod living” concept in which lac- ibly exciting and also a quered cubes stand in the middle of each apart-
huge responsibility.” ment, hiding kitchens and bathrooms. And be m c patrick images; getty joseph; evan
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35 East 19th Street, New York City / Weekdays 10-6, Saturday & Sunday 12-5 / 212.674.1813 www.techlineStudio.com real estate 20 PINE THE COLLECTION The FiDi condo was tai- lored by Armani/Casa. Out of the Closet jean paul gaultier ood style begins in the home— and with fashion designers mov- Ging out of the closet and into the furniture market, your living room may soon vie with you for best-dressed. Those gyspy pants might be eBay-bound, but a great chair is an investment that lasts. Most fashion designer’s home furniture lines reflect their runway sensibilities, espe- cially in the case of Jean Paul Gaulti- er’s new collection for Roche-Bobois: From the man who brought you Ma- donna’s cone bustier comes a chair with wheels, a wardrobe adorned with a tattoo print (also on wheels), a full-length mirror attached to an industrial hand trolley and an alumi- num-and-upholstered headboard on, you guessed it, wheels. If you prefer aware: There are pod people among us. The last your furnishings a bit more conser- sponsor unit, a 1,600-square-foot, two-bedroom, vative—or motionless—Oscar de la Consuelo two-bath penthouse listed at $2.149 million, re- Renta’s sophisticated cocktail Castiglioni cently went into contract. dresses translate into tailored for marni upholstery and cabinetry fit The relative success of these branded devel- for a Park Avenue prewar. opments might be attributable to the immedi- Buying in Bedford? Outfit your ate and clear definition that association with entire life in Ralph Lauren, a fashion house’s style gives a building. Not to from blazers to bedroom sets, mention the design itself. “From a real estate cashmere to couches. Those point of view,” says Shvo, “I felt that when you dizzying Easter-egg Mis- soni prints on your favorite go ahead and hire any great architect, yes, they poncho also cover lamps might give you a pretty building but most of the from Missoni Home, and oscar de la interiors end up being quite bland.” Jean Nouvel for somewhere to rest your renta might disagree. Fashion designers do garner Birkin on rainy days, try the stronger name recognition than architects in Hermès “Pippa” leather direc- tor’s chair: At $10,200, it folds certain circles, especially with international buy- up nicely (matching footstool ers. “With [20 Pine],” Shvo told Home, “we sold sold separately). Boho Marni to a tremendous amount of foreigners because loyalists never have to touch they come here and see a building designed by ground again; the label’s sig- Armani, something they know and are attracted nature florals dot its carpet col- VIVIenNE to.” The concept is hardly foolproof. Real estate lection for the Rug Company, WESTWOOD which also offers wild and insiders agree that for the concept to succeed, it
wool carpet blends from needs to be the right brand for the right people in furniture. and century roche-bobois, any, Paul Smith, Lulu Guiness the right location. One that wasn’t? In 2005, Bel- and Vivienne Westwood. fonti Properties proudly announced a stylish new If Westwood’s trashy (lit- building at 485 Fifth Avenue, with interiors by erally) “Rubbish” rug or las- civious lip pillow speak a little Peter Som. Som, a succesful but smaller designer too loudly, perhaps you’ll prefer without an Armani cachet or a clear-cut follow- perching on the disciplined shapes of Armani/ ing, didn’t quite fit. Clearance sale! The property Casa’s extensive furniture line or Calvin Klein’s is now a Hyatt hotel. Fashion, after all, can be Curator Collection. After all, Calvin Klein sample fleeting. As Michael Shvo, who now considers sizes might run a tad snug, but a Calvin Klein himself semi-retired, put it, “A pretty dress is not couch will always fit.— R.M.
a pretty dress on everybody.” p com the rug of courtesy and headshots images Product
22 the home observer fall 2010 size matters Back Painted Glass www.P resteau.com 847.337.0944 in the kitchen
Culinary Art
Inspiration abounds for home cooks this holiday season at the Museum of Modern Art, where Counter Space: Design and the Modern Kitchen is on display through March 14, 2011 (at 11 West 53rd Street, moma.org). The exhibition, culled entirely from MoMA’s own collection, explores interwar and postwar kitchen inno- vations as well as views on the psychological impact of the most-used room in a home. Works like Tom Wesselmann’s Still Life-Kitchen (1968), left, and objets de cuisine, including Peter Beh- rens 1909 Electric Kettle, illustrate the drama and the history of the kitchen. Make your own kitchen a work of art with marianne rohrlich’s selection of contempo- rary unusual kitchen tools—small creations as whimsical as they are useful.
Hands On Rubber Peeler Gloves have a rough surface that peels and scrubs vegetables; $16 a pair at the Shop at Cooper Hewitt, National Design Cutie Pie Museum. A 9-inch pie slicer that is as sculptural 2 East 91st Street, as it is practical will cut six perfect 212-849-8355, pieces; $38 at Kiosk. 95 Spring Street cooperhewittshop.org. (Crosby Street), 212-226-8601, kiosk- kiosk.com.
All-in-One A one-piece stainless steel grater and tongs Leg Up also measures dry pasta Naturals The legs of this Turkey before cooking, $10. Spaghetti Scrub designed by Hiroki Hayashi, Timer pop up when the uncommongoods.com, are reusable kitchen scrubbers made of cot- bird is done. It is $12.95 888-365-0056. ton, polyester and corn-core powder (coarse) at Mxyplyzyk. or peach-pit powder (gentle); $11 a pair at Time Warner Center, 10 MoMa Design Store. 81 Spring Street (Crosby Columbus Circle, mxyp- Street), momastore.org, 800-851-4509. lyzyk.com, 800-243-9810. of Modern Art Modern m of the Museu of courtesy
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the heels of my brief ownership of an Oldsmobile Rocket V8, this new drawing–room–like refine- ment in my student life was like tuning into Masterpiece Theater after a dose of The Sopranos. Everyone wanted a ride in it—anywhere! The next 30 years were a period of di- minished expectations for Jaguar. Mercedes and BMW asserted themselves with superior engineering; Jaguar slipped to the sidelines. Later versions of the XJ6 looked stolid, as if put together by a management committee. In 1990, Ford bought and restructured the company, bringing out new models with varying success. It wasn’t a good fit. The X-Type, with its cramped interior and lame attempts at reprising earlier models’ design cues, was not successful. By the late 1990s, Jaguar had become a liabil- ity for Ford, which sold the brand to Indian con- glomerate Tata. It is intriguing that a company from India, with its colonial past, has success- fully reinvented the automobile that had earlier A model poses on a represented, in its stylish way, the clubby days of Jaguar E-type, 1967. colonial rule. Tata has wasted no time restoring Below an advertisement from the 1950s. luster to Jaguar, giving free rein to chief designer Ian Callum. Callum’s challenge in creating a new XJ was to meld the traditional with the contemporary. And alongside the XK sports car Grace, Space, Pace and XF saloon, the new, svelte XJ is appearing in showrooms to much acclaim. Traditionalists will by tim street-porter The Mark VII and the XJ120 owed their be happy: The picnic trays are back, folded ex- The very first glimpse of the swoopy new Jaguar brilliant existence to Sir William Lyons, the co- pectantly behind the front seats. The interior is XJ and the sleek, long XJL triggers memories of founder of a sidecar company who gravitated to sexy, curvaceous and fun. A continuous band of the early big cats, a series of softly purring luxury full-scale automobiles in 1928. Just six years lat- burled, veneered wood curves around the driver, cars that first emerged from the historic Jaguar er, the Coventry-based manufacturer introduced cradling the low-set dash with a virtual instru- factory in Coventry, Britain, in the early 1950s. the SS Jaguar model (after the war, the “SS” was ment display that is almost futuristic. They were as luxuriously roomy and elegant as dropped because of its Nazi connotations). Lyons Having owned three Jaguars since my school the very phrase “Grace, Space, Pace” that floated supervised the design of every Jaguar produced holidays watching them on the Goodwood over midcentury Jaguar advertisements. The up to and including 1962’s debut XJ series. His racetrack in southern England, and having aban- Mark VII was the first, introduced in 1952; if touch created those distinctive details that make doned them for German cars in recent years, I’m you had made the money, legally or not, in those the “Jag” iconic today. “This car,” he said, “is the saving up for a fourth. austere British postwar days, this was the car in closest thing we will ever create to something which to flaunt it. With the accoutrements of a that is alive.” Sir Lyons retired after the launch Rolls Royce for a fraction of the price, the Mark of the XJ6 in 1968; it was his final success, of- VII launched Jaguar into the luxury car market. ten regarded by the motoring press as the most It was created expressly for American consum- beautiful sedan of all time. ers, set apart from Lincoln and Cadillac by burled The first Jaguar I owned, as a student living wood interiors and folding tabletops tucked on an exchange scholarship in Berkeley, was a behind the front seats. With the Mark VII and its voluptuous white 1956 Mark VII with an interior g es peer, the XJ120 (then the world’s fastest produc- featuring so much bird’s eye maple that it was
tion car), Jaguar had entered its golden age. like sitting inside a piece of furniture. Coming on ima Getty
26 the home observer fall 2010 john baldessari Raised Eyebrows/Furrowed 9 color silkscreen print on Fabriano paper Foreheads: Figure with Globe 32(h) x 31(w) inches Edition of 70. Signed by the artist
This edition, entitled Raised Eyebrows/Furrowed Foreheads: Figure with Globe, printed at GEMINI G.E.L., was commissioned by the American Friends of the Tel Aviv Museum in support of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. John Baldessari: Pure Beauty will be on view at the Metropolitan Museum of Art from October 20, 2010 - January 11, 2011. Please visit the Editions/Artists’ Books Fair in Chelsea, November 4 - 7, 2010, where we will be exhibiting at the Benefit Print Project booth, and at Art Basel/Miami/Sagamore Hotel, December 2 - 5, 2010.
To purchase the print and support the Museum please contact: Enid Shapiro, American Friends of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Telephone: (212) 319-0555 Facsimile: (212) 754-2987 Email: [email protected] on the shelves
The Americana Hotel in Bal Harbour, in 1956. Below: An exterior view of the Americana Hotel entry canopy.
Morris Lapidus, The Architecture of Joy by deborah desilets rizzoli, $65
The Joy of Lapidus
by tim street-porter images by leading architectural photographers Morris Lapidus, The Architecture of Joy charts of the day, including the great Ezra Stoller. the Miami-based architect’s long career, span- These images illustrate the extraordinary ning from 1929 to his death in 2001 at the age range of Lapidus’ exuberant inspiration, from of 98. After studying architecture at Columbia, the organic forms of Brazilian architect Oscar Lapidus became a designer of commercial store Niemeyer, whose work he admired, to deliri- fronts and interiors in New York. Many of these ous decorative touches that are reminiscent commercial properties are stylish and signifi- of Dorothy Draper and Tony Duquette. They cant, exploring themes that would carry over also prove that Lapidus could do mainstream in later years to his hotel interiors. In 1949, he Modernism as well as anyone. Had he limited moved to Miami and designed the interiors of himself to Modernism, however, he would have the Sans Souci Hotel. It caused a sensation and been accepted, published—and more or less for- paved the way for the nine 1950s hotels, five in gotten today. But Lapidus had something more Miami Beach, for which he is famous. Impres- original to contribute, creating singlehandedly sively, he single-handedly designed the build- the concept of the theatrical boutique hotels ings, interiors and the landscaping of each of that designers like Ian Schrager (who wrote the these hotels. book’s foreword) and Philippe Starck developed The core of The Architecture of Joy is a dis- with such success beginning in the 1980s— play of 170 consecutive black-and-white period resorts like the Delano in Miami, the Mondrian
28 the home observer fall 2010 1 2
3 4 Photos by Cernius.com
5 6
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in Los Angeles and the Paramount in New York. The sweeping, Starck-designed lobby staircase in the latter is pure Lapidus. Author and architect Desilets is well qualified to write about Lapidus, whom she befriended in 1993 and whose career she helped resurrect, sub- sequently inheriting his archives after his death. New York’s Her text is written from firsthand experience with Lapidus—the man as well as the architect—and Source she has immersed herself in his methodology over for Custom a number of years. In this way she is an excellent guide for the reader. She is not, however, an archi- and Ready Made tectural critic, and the book does not attempt to authoritatively place Lapidus in the pantheon of Lampshades 20th-century architecture, as she herself acknowl- edges. Desilets’ strength is her ability to draw the reader into the Lapidus modus operandi. The archi- tect’s intention, first and foremost, was to give the 21 SPRING STREET resort hotel customers an unforgettable experience NEW YORK, NY 10012 at a time when hotels were bland and unremark- (212) 966-2757 able. Lapidus sensed that the clientele needed to be dazzled and taken out of themselves—to forget the New York Observer:Home Observer - Fall 2010 9/28/10 4:54 PM Page 1 WWW.JUS T S HADES N Y . C O M bleakness of the winter they had saved their money to escape. His was indeed an “architecture of joy,” as the book’s title suggests, and his genius, in addition The MANHATTAN to his considerable architectural talents, was as a showman. As Schrager states in his incisive fore- ART &ANTIQUES CENTER word, “His architecture manifested both popular www.the-maac.com culture and the collective unconscious. Through his Celebrating our 35th Anniversary designs—synagogues and large-scale housing as well as the famous shops and glamorous hotels—he had a powerful way of enhancing an experience and lift- ing people’s spirits.” As we see in these pages, this was an architecture of considerable sophistication, but it was not until 30 years after its completion that the Fontainbleau Hotel, regarded as his masterpiece, was mentioned in the architectural press. The dictates of the Inter-
“Eglantines” chandelier, by Rene Lalique. Dia. 27 1/2". William Spratling pitcher, sterling silver with rosewood. national Style were so rigid in this era that to deviate PAUL STAMATI GALLERY • 212.754.4533 LEAH GORDON ANTIQUES • 212.872.1422 from the straight lines or add any kind of decoration, let alone any expression of joie de vivre, was to invite ostracism from the establishment that at the time adhered so firmly to the “less is more” doctrine of Mies van der Rohe. The much-heralded arrival of Post-Modernism in the 1970s (a popular movement introduced by architectural theorists Robert Venturi and Denise Scott-Brown, who championed Lapidus
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30 the home observer fall 2010 illumination to inspire your imagination
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Untitled-16 1 10/7/10 5:59:12 PM on the shelves The Winter Bedroom was hung with a floral garland striped fabric of Madeleine’s creation that contin- ued the views of the garden’s allées.
The World of Madeleine Castaing by emily evans eerdmans rizzoli, $65 Chez Castaing
by annie kelly Leading designers have long counted the work of 20th- century French decorator and antiquarian Madeleine Castaing as an inspiration. Until recently, though, it was almost impossible to find examples of her 19th-century inspired rooms anywhere but in old copies of the English magazine World of Interiors and scattered throughout various interior design books. Thanks to author Emily Evans Eerdmans, we now have The World of Madeleine Castaing, a wonderfully comprehensive work that tells Castaing’s fascinating life story and provides many ex- amples of her stylish and original take on turn-of-the- century decorating. In his introduction, decorator Jacques Grange ex- plains that Castaing’s personal style was influenced by not only 19th-century homes, but that period’s literature as well: She saw Balzac and Stendhal as unequaled deco- rators as well as writers. They inspired her atmospheric, otherworldly and timeless mise en scènes. Eerdmans illustrates how Castaing’s style grew in the process of decorating her own home, Lèves, in the country outside Paris. Lèves was taken over by the Germans during World War II, though Castaing eventually managed to reclaim the house. No photographs remain of its earlier décor, but we see here many images showing how she refurnished it anew after its return to her. She threw Biedermeier, Rus- sian and English Regency pieces together with Napoleon III–era details, adding random pieces of antlers or bone
Far Left: Madeleine in one of her signature fanciful hats while sitting on an American Federal four-poster bed dressed in snow white muslin and bobble fringe. Left: The gallery looking toward the entrance hall was furnished with banquettes and bookcases—as layered a space as any actual room.
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The games room was dubbed the Salon Bleu.
for an unexpected texture. The war changed Castaing’s life from that of a wealthy mother and patron of the arts (her husband Marcellin enjoyed being part of the café society of the time) to a shopkeeper and eventually a decorator who defined a look of the French post- war period. You can see influences of Castaing’s decorating in movies like the great Umbrellas of Cherbourg, directed by Jacques Demy in 1964, and in such films of Jean Cocteau as Les dames du Bois Tuesday - Saturday 11- 6 de Boulogne and L’aigle a deux têtes. In fact, Cocteau 212.861.9743 / [email protected] became one of Castaing’s initial clients, hiring her www.hixenbaugh.net for the interiors for his country house in Milly-la- Forêt. Cocteau’s chief benefactress was Francine Weisweiller, a socialite from an old Jewish banking family who was married to an American millionaire, and it was the Weisweillers who gave Castaing her first major commissions. In addition to their Paris residence, she also decorated their country house in Beautiful Greenhouses & Solariums Mortefontaine and their villa, Santo-Sospir, in Saint- Jean-Cap-Ferrat. After these projects, many stylish Parisians asked Castaing to help them with their own homes. Eerdmans writes, “Without the benefit of know- ing the client’s directives and preferences, it is impossible to decipher how much of a free reign Madeleine was given. However, by comparing pic- tures of Madeleine’s rooms for herself to those for her clients, one can see ideas and themes played out over and over again.” The World of Madeleine Castaing establishes the Custom Design • Greenhouses • Solariums decorator in the context of her peers and highlights Skylights • Glass Enclosures her influences, predominately the English Regency and Napoleon III styles, which she made fashion- UNDER GLASS MFG. CORP. able again. As the author of Regency Redux, pub- High Falls, New York • 845.687.4700 lished by Rizzoli in 2008, Emily Evans Eerdmans www.underglassusa.com is on firm ground here; she writes knowledgeably Exclusive manufacturer of the original Lord & Burnham product line about Castaing’s life, and it is wholly absorbing to read about this controversial, contradictory and Fm\i(,'p\Xijf]?`jkfip fascinating decorator.
36 the home observer fall 2010 38 th Annual 2010
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Private Gardens of Connecticut by jane garmey photography by john m.hall monacelli press, $65 Star Gardens
A passion for Connecticut is no prerequisite to enjoying Private Gardens of Connecticut Inge Heckel’s by Jane Garmey. This highly anticipated new April garden. book from Monacelli Press is full of lush flowering gardens that will be inspiration for
38 the home observer fall 2010 Observer_10_2010_Observer_04_2010 9/29/10 10:26 AM Page 1
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Engineered for every night sleep with the STEELWEAVE™ mechanism. A vista in Bunny William’s Falls Village garden. Opposite: Michael Trapp’s Cornwall Bridge property.
horticulturalists nationwide. Garmey is an excellent writer and her knowledgeable text is a pleasure. Never pedantic, she envelopes the
NY Observer:Home Observer 10/4/10 2:42 PM Page 1 reader into the very spirit of all 28 properties she has selected for the book—each one a very personal choice, according to her introduction, which reads, “This book was never intended to be a comprehensive survey of private gardens ANTHONY LOMBARDO in Connecticut, but is instead a personal and DESIGNS.COM often idiosyncratic selection.” FIREPLACE MANTELS Photographer John M. Hall shows the structure of each garden, an acheivement that many similar works fail to acheive. It is a pleasure to visit, through the beautiful pages, properties like New York philanthoprist Anne Bass’s Rock Cobble Farm rose garden, which features more than 140 varieties of roses. Rob- ert Couturier, in Kent, has an almost entirely green garden with high clipped hedges, par- terres and rows of trees that remind him of his native France and has the added advantage of being relatively seasonless in the tough winter climate of Connecticut. The reader will marvel over the extensive views of Oscar and Annette de la Renta’s extraordinary garden, previously years featured in this magazine; its clipped symme- 50of creating the very finest mantels and boiserie. try and majestic double row of flowering pear Our master carvers can reproduce any mantel trees never fails to thrill. Inge Heckel has more from your photo or drawing without loss of integrity than 50,000 daffodils that bloom every year in in any size or species. front of her 1790s Lakeville saltbox, stopping ANTHONY LOMBARDO DESIGNS passers by in their tracks with the magnificent P.O. BOX 277 ROOSEVELT ISLAND, NY 10044 • 917.945.9206 April sight. Heckel doesn’t seem to have to www.AnthonyLombardoDesigns.com • [email protected]
40 the home observer fall 2010 We just look expensive.
do much in the way of maintenance, Garmey VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS: writes: “Heckel’s chief responsibility is to fill 819 Broadway 388 Summer St. Canac Kitchens of NJ in any of the patches and mow the field twice at 12th St. Stamford, CT 99 North Dean St. New York City 203.327.8800 Englewood, NJ a year.”! 212.260.7768 201.567.9585 Legendary garden designer Michael www.broadwaykitchens.com Trapp’s wisteria-filled arbors and cobbled paths are an inspiration, and 14 pages on Bun- ny William’s famous Falls Village garden make the reader wish for still more glimpses into the renowned interior designer’s home. Williams, Broadway Kitchen Ad.indd 1 2/22/10 8:17:02 PM while not a professional garden designer, has spent years working on hers, adding and sub- tracting until things look “right.” As Garmey writes, “There’s so much to love about Bunny William’s garden: the bold scale of the pe- rennial borders; the ornamental flair of an enclosed parterre potager; the late summer opulence of the large kitchen garden; the quiet charms of a meandering woodland garden; and a romantic conservatory filled with tender scented plants.” Garmey’s focus on personal gardens illus- trates how individual owners respond to their own distinct landscapes and personal aes- thetic; it is a pity these gardens are not open to the public. However, a careful look at garden tour schedules of Connecticut next summer Introducing Upholstery! might reveal one or two of them open for a 15% trade discount on fabric afternoon to benefit a charity or a garden club. for registered design professionals In the meantime, Garmey’s Private Gardens of Connecticut is a wonderful start to the fast- 1019 Lexington Avenue New York, NY 10021 212.772.7220 approaching winter’s garden planning. —A.K. www.RobertaRollerRabbit.com
the home observer fall 2010 41 Fashion favorites West Chin and Roseann Repetti design a dazzling and dramatic loft where family fun meets sophisticated style Urban Opulence
By Rebecca Morse
“I wanted ‘dramatic,’” says Atoosa Rubenstein of her first “grown-up” apartment with her husband, Ari. The editor in chief of Seventeen until 2005 and the founding editor of the now-defunct CosmoGirl, Rubenstein knows a little something about visual drama. As the youngest editor in Hearst’s history, she revolutionized the teen publishing market—leaving little time for décor. The Rubensteins lived in the same Upper West Side rental—“the digs of two 25-year-old kids”—for almost 10 years as they both pursued frenetic careers. When they purchased their 3,000-square-foot Flatiron district loft in 2007, its de- sign needed to be “reflective of our tastes and sensibili- ties, whereas where we lived before … was literally like a dormitory.” Enter West Chin Architect pllc., an archi- tecture and interior design firm known for its clean, sexy and modern portfolio. Amber Valetta, Shalom Harlow and Christy Turlington and Ed Burns have all turned to WCA’s West Chin and Roseann Repetti, partners at WCA—and in life: The two are married with a 10-year- old son. That parental perspective took on new impor- tance when, well into the project, Atoosa called the firm, “in a panic,” she recalls, “saying, ‘That room is no longer an office! We’re having a baby.’” She was talking to the right team; family living with style is WCA’s niche. With baby en route, and the Rubensteins’ two beloved cats to consider, functionality took priority alongside form. The
photography by Joshua Mc Hugh
42 the home observer fall 2010 Steven Klein’s Madonna #01 (2006) hangs above the statuary bronze fireplace. The Moroso swivel armchairs are a favorite hangout for the Rubensteins’ daughter. the home observer fall 2010 43 Bert Stern’s 1962 photograph of Marilyn Monroe watches over the Piero Lissoni for Porro P.04 dining table. Opposite, clockwise from top: The media room; custom Bocce chandelier from Matter; Peter Pracilio’s My Mother the Hunter on a Jane table in Corian from FTF Design Studio.
44 the home observer fall 2010 the home observer fall 2010 45 46 the home observer fall 2010 WCA extended the kitchen’s rosewood panels to enclose the home office, powder room and pantry. The .25 white lacquer tray is from WCA’s own FTF Design Studio. Opposite: Menhir tables by Piero Lissoni for Living Divani in the media room.
the home observer fall 2010 47 48 the home observer fall 2010 Primary colors like the bright red of a Cuba sofa bed by Rodolfo Dordon pop in the nursery. Below: Dylan crib by ducduc. Opposite: The serene master bedroom reflects “who we want to be,” says Atoosa Rubenstein. The Saarinen womb armchair is from Knoll.
resulting flawless loft is a riddle (a child lives here?): The answer is that any- thing not stain-proofed can be wiped down, particularly the spectacular— and indestructible—Corian pieces from WCA’s design arm, FTF Design Stu- dio, atop which the Rubensteins’ daughter, now 2, can often be found danc- ing with friends. “It’s the most decorative apartment in the building,” says Roseann Repetti, “but it’s also where all the kids and families in the build- ing go to play.” For now, at least. “We laugh because we are surrounded by breasts,” laughs Atoosa about Bert Stern’s print of a topless Marilyn Monroe and a similarly sexy piece by Ghada Amer and Rez Farkhondeh in the media room. “I’m terrified that once my daughter continues on at school, this is go- ing to be the place where kids are not allowed to come.” But it’s that avant- garde style that most embodies the young family, who requested of WCA a certain quirkiness for their home—though not enough to compromise resale value. “They wanted to keep the space loftlike,” says Chin, who incorporat- ed his signature core box concept by wrapping the powder room, pantry and home office in rosewood enclosures extending from the kitchen. Attention to lighting is another WCA signature; in the Rubensteins’ loft, huge win- dows flood the space with natural light. “The window treatments are just dreamy,” says Repetti, “elegant, linen-y and soft.” “Dreamy” might just be the world to describe the entire space, where contemporary, cool minimal- ism nonetheless evokes a livable warmth. Driving the success of the project was the ease of communication between Atoosa and Repetti, who also has roots in the publishing industry. That shared shorthand made the process smooth, even for first-time renovators like the Rubensteins. “Your home is something you don’t want to rush,” says Atoosa, whose quest for the build- ing’s permission to install the custom Bocce chandelier delayed the project for six months, “but we didn’t freak out about it. We wanted our home to be exactly what we wanted it to be.” Sometimes that meant negotiating with husband Ari. “I remember when Roseann and I were picking out furniture, accessories and even some architectural details, I really had to drag him to the point of ‘yes’ at moments,” in one instance to install remote controls for the lighting. Now, however, each detail is beloved—and the few sugges- tions not taken regretted. “You have the right partner in a project like this,” notes Atoosa of WCA. “You really do have to take a leap of faith and real- ize that they know what they’re talking about. [S]ome things that may just seem extravagant ... make a huge difference in your quality of life. This said by the girl that kisses ther chandelier’s remote control every night!”
the home observer fall 2010 49 Colonial Charm Matthew Patrick Smyth’s late 18th-century home in Sharon, Connecticut, sets 21st-century contemporary style against classic Colonial charm
By annie kelly
Like many busy New York decorators, Matthew Patrick Smyth enjoys leaving the stresses of the city and driving out to peaceful Litchfield County. With his partner, author Jean Vallier, he also maintains apart- ments in Paris and Miami, but they are too far away for a quick week- end escape. If he is lucky, he can add an extra night or two in Connecti- cut by visiting clients in Greenwich and Westport en route. Nearly eight years ago, Smyth came across his house in Sharon on the Internet while searching areas near train stations for an easy com- mute to New York. The town’s main street has many well-kept 18th- and 19th-century houses on either side of a small green, and Smyth’s “find” was set back a little on this road as it continues through the
photography by tim street-porter
50 the home observer fall 2010 The comfortable seat- ing area on the sun- porch is upholstered in linen from Hinson, with pillow fabric from Claremont.
the home observer fall 2010 51 52 the home observer fall 2010 Smyth designed the living room furniture. Painting by Sewell Sillman.
Opposite: The sunporch dresser is filled with a collection of objects found all over the world, including tankards from Germany and a tip box from New York state. Right: An eclectic mix of objects on the dining room table.
town. It was probably a good thing he saw the house in winter, as its run-down appearance was not hidden by summer foliage—allowing an unvarnished look at the actual work that was needed. With a long wait- ing period before the property could be bought, Smyth was able to get all his plans and the necessary quotes in place so he could start immedi- ately upon the deed being filed. Luckily, the house took only a short five months to renovate. Smyth learned that his late 18th-century house was once the Iron Cauldron Inn, a hotel for teachers from the school next door. Since 1790, when the house was built, the upstairs had been cut up into many different rooms. After a hundred years as an inn, the Iron Cauldron became home to families with lots of children. Smyth feels that he is giving the house a rest, as it is occupied most weekends only by the couple, who enjoy it for its peace and quiet. Vallier likes to write here, and the two can stroll into town and enjoy the small village atmosphere without using their car. During the restoration, there were surprises. A beautiful tiger maple stair rail was discovered under a later-period wall, and the Palladian-style
the home observer fall 2010 53 front window, found hidden away on the stair landing, was re- antique maps of Paris remind the couple of their home in France. opened to the interior. This mezzanine space then became large The living room, to the left, was created from several smaller enough to use as a small, informal sitting room. Smyth converted rooms and is furnished with an eclectic collection of furniture, the upstairs into three useful bedrooms and put some of the spare making it seem traditional and modern at the same time. Smyth rooms to work as adjoining bathrooms. Downstairs he gave the loves being in the country, especially here in northwest Connect- house a new kitchen and reworked the back into a comfortable icut. Smyth’s favorite town? He enjoyed renovating the White living and dining space. Hart Inn in nearby Salisbury, but, according to the designer, “it’s An entrance does double duty as a dining room, and its wall of hard to say what the prettiest town is!” in the beautiful area.
54 the home observer fall 2010 The guest bathroom wallpaper was custom- designed for Smyth by Dennis Lee for Tyler Hall. Opposite: An antique Irish mirror hangs inside the guest bed canopy.
the home observer fall 2010 55 Animal Kingdom Gregory Speck goes wild on the Upper West Side with a menagerie of remarkably well-behaved roommates
Author, celebrity journalist and zoologist Gregory Speck is used to the inevitable double take from first-time visitors to his apartment. They would be forgiven for assuming Speck is a big-game hunter. After all, room after room of stuffed animals might not seem like the typical habi- tat for a conservationist. Each one of Speck’s trophies is, however, a res- cue. Anything spotted on his travels that looks like it needs a home is purchased on the spot and brought back to his Upper West Side apart- ment. He prefers those animals that have died from natural causes; his pheasants, a gift to round out his collection, were raised from eggs by game-bird breeders; both a huge moose and a beautiful swan were road- kill brought back to life by taxidermists. Speck has owned his apartment near the Museum of Natural History since he was a young reporter for Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine in the 1970s. In those days, he was more likely to collect people—old Hol- lywood movie stars were his speciality. He spent hours interviewing all the greats, most of whom have since died. Everyone from Lillian Gish, Helen Hayes and James Cagney to Joan Fontaine and Olivia de Havil- land sat down with Speck, as did Audrey Hepburn, Ava Gardner and even Katharine Hepburn—a notoriously hard person to track down, let alone
photography by tim street-porter
56 the home observer fall 2010 In the living room, a portrait of Speck’s late wife hangs above her collection of antique porcelain from Sèvres, surrounded by his stuffed animals and birds.
the home observer fall 2010 57 58 the home observer fall 2010 A black bear greets guests in the entry. Below: Gregory Speck. Opposite: Deer and elk hang in the dining room.
interview. Perhaps stuffed animals were an easier collection to gather. Speck can count 200 animals in his two-bedroom apartment and has another 200 displayed in his country house in Virginia. Touring the collection with Speck is like visiting with an aimable zoologist—he describes each animal in detail, including its habitat and rarity. He is quick to point out that each one comes from the U.S.A. Sitting on an entry table, “Bob,” the stuffed bobcat (“roadkill, I’m afraid,” Speck explains sadly), seems almost alive. Unexpectedly, all the animals bear a pa- tient, bemused expression, as if they are aware of their good fortune to have been rescued from commercial store refrigerators and taxidermist storerooms. Speck plans to create a museum someday, where his extraordinary collection of trophies can be seen in one place, as remnants of the vanished tradition of hunting wild game. —Annie Kelly
the home observer fall 2010 59 Family Style on the Upper East Side
Interior designer Philip Gorrivan and his family retreat to a glamorous, colorful apartment where everyone from growing children to a large standard poodle can feel at home
In Manhattan, where space is at a premium, many families with zines. His corporate background may well explain the orderly preci- young children abandon all hope of a glamorous adult life. Inte- sion of his work on his own home. The bright red kitchen banquette rior designer Philip Gorrivan and his wife, Lisa, however, manage and chairs are upholstered in a sturdy child-friendly leather. The to have the best of both worlds with an elegant Upper East Side living room is accessorized with books in neat piles on tables and apartment and two energetic children, 11-year-old Isabelle and shelves—no brittle china and glass here with young children around. 8-year-old Charlie. Isabelle and Charlie have colorful rooms of their own, placed off Philip Gorrivan’s career began in the business world, on the pub- the living room to create a distinct space for them to enjoy during lishing side of Hearst magazines and later in venture capital. He be- playtimes not spent at the family’s sprawling Connecticut country gan to decorate as a career when encouraged by friends who liked home. There, they go shopping with their mother in local farmers’ what what they saw when they came by the family’s home. “I always markets, accompanied by Leo, the family’s large standard poodle. loved design and was always interested in building a business in that The apartment was purchased more than three years ago field, and finally I had the opportunity to make this a reality,” ex- and took about a year to redo. It was two spaces quite recently plains Gorrivan. Today, he is included in the lists of up-and-coming joined together, and Gorrivan reworked the combined apart- designers, with work regularly included in all the decorating maga- ments so that they were more logically connected. The second
photography by tim street-porter
60 the home observer fall 2010 Gorrivan planned the kitchen to look like a streamlined butler’s pantry. Opposite: Leo, the family dog, blends into the living room décor. the home observer fall 2010 61 Gorrivan designed the banquette and the limed-oak tables in the dining area. Opposite: The painting over the bedroom chest of drawers is by William Betts.
62 the home observer fall 2010 the home observer fall 2010 63 The master bedroom’s walls are covered in Manila hemp by Phillip Jeffries. Below: Piggy, Piggy Junior and Scruffy go everywhere with the family. Opposite: Isabelle’s bed linens are made from Lee Jofa’s David Hicks fabric. A feather pendant light found by her father in Paris hangs above the bed.
kitchen became a large, well-planned laundry, an essential room nearby photograph by Michael Wolf that can be seen from the for a young family, and what was once a dining area is now a cozy entry. Gorrivan insists his poodle, Leo, was not the inspiration for family room, enveloped by a sectional sofa upholstered in fabric the colors of the apartment. After all, he arrived after the family designed by Gorrivan for Highland Court. The black lacquered had moved in. Somehow, though, he blends in perfectly with the foyer provides a note of whimsy: “I always wanted to do an octag- browns and beiges of the main living room. onal entry, and this element, although in its raw state, was what France, especially Yves Saint Laurent’s Paris apartment, was sold us on the potential of the apartment,” says Gorrivan. “I was another strong influence for the apartment’s design, and Gorrivan inspired by Dorothy Draper’s black laquered lobby for the Car- travels there whenever he can. His fabric line for Duralee/High- lyle Hotel.” The sophistication of the entry sets the stage for the land Court recently appeared in the prestigous Maison et Object overall tone of the apartment, as does the very personal choice trade show in Paris, and in fact, Gorrivan’s apartment could pass of art. The wall behind the dining area in the main room is hung for a chic and modern place in the 6th Arrondissment. But he is with a collection assembled by Gorrivan over the years. Old Mas- happy here in New York, especially now that he has found his true ter drawings from the 17th to the 19th centuries mingle with a métier. —Annie Kelly
64 the home observer fall 2010 the home observer fall 2010 65 Park Slope Rock & Roll
From oceanfront in Santa Monica to an 1888 Neo-Grec townhouse: Courtney and Matt Winslow’s Brooklyn home brings Los Angeles flavor and a touch of rock & roll to Park Slope
They had six months to complete the “soup-to-nuts” renovation— from facade work to furniture placement—but Fitzhugh Karol and Lyndsay Caleo of the Brooklyn Home Company were up to the challenge. Their clients, concert producer Matt Winslow and his wife, Courtney, had found the ultimate Greek revival townhouse on Park Slope’s historic Lincoln Place but had yet to make the move east with son Cash, now two and a half. “They were still liv- ing in California during the renovation,” says Caleo, “so they had to trust us a lot.” Even from a distance, though, the clients were involved in the project. “Courtney had a great vision. Often times clients say, ‘We have no idea what we want to do,’ but in this case it really was a collaboration,” Karol recalls. That cross-country col- laboration resulted in a richly colorful and dynamic 21st-century take on the 3,500-square-foot 19th-century brownstone—with con- temporary floor-plan adjustments, custom Sapele woodwork and a sprinkling of Santa Monica style. The Winslows “had that Califor- nia vibe,” explains Karol. “We wanted to go with that.” Thanks to Matt Winslow’s musical background, the Winslows had “all kinds of prints and music-related photography. We had a lot of things to work with that we knew were mainstays,” including the architec- tural details of the townhouse, many shared by its neighbors in the historic Park Slope district. “The house is full of amazing original details,” wrote Caleo in an email, “and we wanted to emphasize all the beauty of those details but update them. I became obsessed with painting the foyer, hallways and kitchen, which are all heavy
photography by Emily Gilbert
66 the home observer fall 2010 Brooklyn Home Company salvaged and restored original flooring for a dressing room that separates the master bedroom and bath. Walls shine in Benjamin Moore’s Royal Flush.
the home observer fall 2010 67 68 the home observer fall 2010 with this amazing cake molding in a rich, gorgeous off-black. It added a lot of drama and modernized the space while still keeping it classic.” Af- ter highlighting the brownstone’s historic architure, the design duo paid tribute to their clients’ individuality as a young, stylish family. “We took [an] antique chandelier in the kitchen and dunked it in red rubber,” says Caleo. “We had some offbeat ideas but they were great with letting us re- Clockwise from top: The ally go for it.” From roof cornice to stoop, the house is a testament to the brownstone’s kitchen features family-run Brooklyn Home Company’s core mission—to create rooms the original fireplace redone with a sense of “escape.” Using eco-friendly materials, nontraditional in Carrera marble and a treatments and pieces with a handmade component, Karol and Caleo red-rubber-dipped chandelier and their team of local Brooklyn artists and builders work to create spac- (reflected in the mirror); es where, says Karol, “you feel you can exhale when you walk in.” Perfect the parlor room was wallpapered for a Brooklyn home in which you can—almost—catch the Santa Monica and painted in a soft gray; breezes blowing through. Courtney Winslow may have best summed up a pop of red in a guest room. her new home in the blog that she has started since moving to Brooklyn. Opposite: The dining room. Its name? “Fabulous in Park Slope.” —Rebecca Morse
the home observer fall 2010 69 70 the home observer fall 2010 In toddler Cash’s room, a striped ceiling and music memorabilia set off rich original archi- tectural detail. Opposite: A playroom for a wordly tot. Sophisticated Rural Life A long-awaited renovation in Connecticut combines historical accuracy with local design finds
Washington, Connecticut, is a perfect location for businessman Peter Nestler, who travels around the country for an international company and appreciates the prox- imity to New York. When Nestler and his wife, Betsey, bought their 1845 house in Washington more than 30 years ago, it was in worse condition than it appeared. Betsey claims she had no idea how much work was needed. It was a mess, she says, and the couple were too busy working and raising their children to turn their atten- tion to a complete renovation. In the intervening years, Betsey busied herself open- ing several local design stores in succession, each of which sold vintage furniture and found objects. Finishing the house was the climax of years of planning and waiting; in the meantime, Peter, one of her two sons, had grown older and ready to help. Admittedly, the family had gotten the essentials out of the way. They had re- placed areas of the house damaged beyond repair, including the kitchen porch at the front left-hand side of the house. The dining room’s antique brick floor had been an inspired and economical choice to replace a rotting wood floor, but a final crisis came years later when Betsey flatly refused to use the kitchen unless it was renovated. Son The white-painted en- Peter came to the rescue with the help of a fellow carpenter and built his mother try features bright red a brand-new kitchen. He added marble countertops and a very functional kitchen chairs from Jennings island and created a seating area on one side by opening up the back staircase, which and Rohn in Woodbury.
photography by tim street-porter
72 the home observer fall 2010 the home observer fall 2010 73 In a corner of the dining room sits a console table with a large wooden elephant from Betsey’s store. Opposite: The kitchen was opened up and renovated with the help of the Nestlers’ son Peter.
74 the home observer fall 2010 adds space to the already well-sized room. Renovated bathrooms followed, A Victorian iron bed and the upstairs rooms were updated and painted. makes a sculptural Betsey had known all along that the front porch looked “wrong,” and a statement in the guest bedroom. recently discovered photo of the house in 1950 revealed the stairs in their original position. Today, the restored stairs leading to the front door are a distinctive architectural feature, flanked by a pair of chinoiserie-style white outdoor chairs. Inside, the front room spans the main section of the house and is filled with finds from Betsey’s stores that sit against a neutral back- ground of white walls and a wood floor that was painted black. The rest of the house’s treasures were found in Litchfield County: The red chairs in the entry were discovered at Jennings and Rohn in Woodbury, Connecticut, and the metal kitchen furniture came from the late Judy Hornby in nearby Bantam. Antiquarian and landscape designer Michael Trapp was the source for additional Asian-inspired fabrics and pottery. The Nestlers could have lived anywhere in New England, but they found that Washington was the ideal choice, with its combination of sophisticated rural life and easy dis- tance to New York City. —Annie Kelly
the home observer fall 2010 75 HOME Gallery
Antique and Vintage Woods of America (AVW), located in the historic Hudson Valley, offers one of the most respected and diverse inventories of antique and vintage hardwood beams and flooring. AVW salvages and reclaims historic wood and brick American Friends of the Tel Aviv Museum Anthony Lombardo Designs is preeminent in materials from century old barns, houses, gristmills, of Art is a non-profit organization founded in 1974 creating the finest, most authentic custom fireplace factories, and mushroom facilities and incorporates the to raise funds for the Museum and to seek gifts of mantels and wood paneling. materials into new and restorative construction projects. notable works of art for its collections. AFTAM hosts a Our master carvers can reproduce and re-proportion Wide plank flooring is our specialty. We offer an extensive year-round calendar of events, including gallery visits, finely detailed appointments with breathtaking beauty. line of precision milled wide plank flooring in a variety of art lectures, private tours of art collections, and a Gala. We have 20 antique models to choose from, but can species and styles, from rustic to modern elegant. Wide Please call our Executive Director at 212-319-0555 or also create from your drawings. planks typically range from 3 – 24 inches wide and 4 – 20 visit our website at to learn more about the Museum. Our mantels are available in walnut, mahogany, cherry, feet long. All of our floors, are hand selected, made to oak, poplar, maple and pine. We can also carve from order, and milled to your specification. any wood species you prefer. Each mantel is created Antique & Vintage Woods of America as a single unit, No assembly is required. 2290 Route 199 Pine Plains, NY 12567 www.americanfriendstelavivmuseum.org www.AnthonyLombardoDesigns.com 518-398-0049, www.avwamerica.com
At Carlyle you can: Purchase a new custom sofa or sofa bed that will last for over 50 years. Have that same sofa recovered over and over again, by us. Have your cushions and/or mattress Atelier offers an exceptionally innovative selection of Italian replaced when needed, by us. Have a residential and contract furniture, lighting and accessories. Since 1995 when the family-owned Broadway trusted source for all your heirloom re- The contemporary designs offered are exceedingly advanced Kitchens & Baths opened its flagship Manhattan store, upholstery and cushion needs under in quality, comfort, functionality and aesthetics. customers have asked the same question, “I want to redo my one roof. Over 50 years of family owned pride and expertise, Atelier presents a plethora of life-style alternatives in kitchen and bathroom, but where do I start?” The answer is our own showrooms and our own local factory make us the contemporary living while providing highly personalized “Broadway Kitchens & Baths”. BKB now has 3 convenient wise choice for quality driven New Yorkers. Engineered for and comprehensive furnishing services for their clients. locations; Manhattan, Englewood NJ and Stamford Ct. BKB every night sleep with the Atelier partners with suppliers who invest in eco-friendly has a simple mission to help the customer make good STEELWEAVE™ mechanism. production aiming to significantly reduce the negative choices, then execute the renovation on time, and within impacts on the environment. budget. East Side Atelier is not only a valuable resource for high-end 1056 Third Ave. , New York, N.Y. 10065, Tel: 212-838-1525 contemporary furniture but also operates as an art gallery Chelsea showcasing works of national and international artists. 122 West 18th Street., New York, N.Y. 10011, Tel: 212-675-3212 206 Lexington Avenue, Suite 202 Factory, Showroom & Clearance Center 212-696-0211 www.broadwaykitchens.com 6 Empire Blvd., Moonachie, N.J. 07074 Tel: 973-546-4502
Center44, the Midtown Manhattan marketplace for With 8 wholesale branches and 7 showrooms, Davis For over 60 years Elgot has been Manhattan’s premier antiques and modernism. 75 dealers and every period are & Warshow is the NY metro region’s resource for all source for kitchen and bath design, remodeling and major represented at Center44’s showrooms, open Monday- things plumbing, from the largest industrial valve, to the appliance sales and installation. That’s why discerning New Saturday 10am-5pm, 222 East 44th Street, New York, NY most elegant faucets and fixtures available. Legendary Yorkers rely on Elgot for quality, service and experience. Our 10017 212-450-7988. Take a look at our website www. for superlative service, Davis & Warshow has been named staff is always happy to help you choose energy efficient and center44.com. Nate Berkus recently said “Center44 is my Supply House Times “Wholesaler of the Year” in 1988 and eco-friendly products to allow you to support green living in favorite place to shop!” again in 2003. Davis & Warshow is a 100% employee-owned Manhattan. From too-tight spaces to arcane building codes company. For more information on Davis & Warshow, visit to co-op regulations, we’ve seen and done it all! 222 East 44th Street, www.dwny.com. New York, NY 10017 937 Lexington Avenue (68th/69th Sts.) 212-450-7988 New York, NY 10065 www.center44.com www.dwny.com 212-879-1200, www.elgotkitchens.com
76 the home observer fall 2010 English Country Antiques Chris Mead, has been in the the han horse For 12 home furnishings business While the years The McCormick family for 20 yrs. Originally a principles and has handpicked and brought photographer of home and tradition behind to NYC the best antique gardening books, he now has Greenbaum treasures from China. Their two stores with 20,000 sq Interiors’ two-story gallery showcases feet of inventory, and is one of prevailing success this exquisite 18th/19th c. Qing the leading suppliers to home remain intact, furniture, along with Han, Tang owners , designers and architects across the country. Susan Gross foresees “new beginnings.” “We intend and Ming Dynasty artifacts and a range of wonderfully The Bridgehampton store has one of the biggest fabric to refocus our design center to make full use of the unique accessories and artwork. These pieces are loved libraries on the east end, where our experienced staff help latest technology. The world becomes a little closer for their unusual elegance and great utility. The website designers and homeowners a with window treatments, with each passing day. Through the use of this shows pieces in context along with full inventory, including upholstery and wall coverings. technology we have immediate access to more than two books written by The McCormicks: Chinese Country 2,000 suppliers worldwide. If an item can’t be found, Antiques and Old China/New Style. we can still design and manufacture the piece in our own workshops. Tel 631 537 0606 www.thehanhorse.com www.ecantiques.com 101 Washington Street l paterson l (973) 279-3000 973 Lexington Ave. [email protected] www.greenbauminteriors.com 212 988-4558
HIXENBAUGH ANCIENT ART New York Hixenbaugh Ancient Art is an Upper East Side gallery specializing in fine quality authentic antiquities. We handle Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek, Roman, Celtic, and Byzantine art, including marble and bronze statuary, weapons, manuscripts, vases, glass, Established in 1938, Jaguar of Great Neck was the first Just Shades has been in business for over 40 years, so mosaics, terracottas, paintings, and ancient coins. Our Jaguar dealership in the Country. Our experience has led it comes as no surprise that Just Shades offers the largest inventory includes modestly priced decorative objects for to a reputation of value, personal service and after-sale selection of ready-made shades in New York City. From the casual collector as well as museum quality masterpieces support that is unrivaled. For 70+ years we have been traditional pleats and silks to the more contemporary of ancient art for the true connoisseur. selling to and servicing the New York area with the pride parchment shades, we carry a shade for every lighting Member: and attention it deserves. Model for model, option for situation. We cater not only to top designers and Appraisers Association of America (AAA) option, no one is more competitive than us. We will beat decorators, but to individuals looking for that perfect shade. Art and Antique Dealers League of America (AADLA) any advertised price in New York...Guaranteed! Fulfill For the hard to please, we also create custom shades from Confederation Internationale des Negociants en Oeuvres your passion for perfection with one of our awesome our fabrics or from your own fabrics. d’Art (CINOA) 2010 Jaguar XF or XK models. One is waiting for you at Tuesday – Saturday 11 -6 Jaguar of Great Neck. 21 Spring Street, 320 East 81st Street, New York NY 10028 New York, NY 10012 [email protected], www.hixenbaugh.net www.GreatNeckJaguar.com 212-966-2757 212.861.9743 888-263-4158 www.justshadesny.com
Manufacturing furniture is our expertise – providing an unforgettable experience is our passion. Lazzoni does not Founded in 1823, Lee Jofa is the industry leader in Lerebours Antiques features an eclectic collection design, manufacture, and market extraordinary furniture for high-end, to-the-trade home furnishings, including of Continental as well as American antique, vintage the home, but for the individual. We embrace the diversity, fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, carpet, trimmings and mid-century modern furniture, lighting and inconformity, and uniqueness of our customers and furniture and lighting. Lee Jofa specializes in style and luxury, art. Open Monday thru through Friday 10am-6pm, alike. The foundation for this philosophy was established over offering products distributed under exclusive brands Saturday and Sunday by appointment. Please view 50 years ago, and Lazzoni has never looked back since. If we such as Lee Jofa, Groundworks, G.P. & J. Baker, our website, www.lereboursantiques.com . Matthew are as exceptional as our customers, who knows what will Mulberry Home, Cole & Son and others. Patrick Smyth recently described Lerebours Antiques come next. as “one of the nicest shops in NYC.”
154 West 18th Street, New York NY 10011 For further brand information, please refer to 220 East 60th St., NYC 10022. 212-242-0606 www.leejofa.com. 917- 749-5866.
the home observer fall 2010 77 HOME Gallery
The Manhattan Art & Antiques Center, New York’s largest Lighting By Gregory is the nation’s premier Both of Ligne Roset’s Manhattan locations display antique center, houses distributor of designer lighting and fans. LBG provides Europe’s largest collection of brilliant contemporary 100 galleries on three a comprehensive selection of the industry’s finest furniture designs. We are proud of our sustainable levels an entire city brand names. One of our top brands, Estiluz, has practices, beautiful stores, large quick ship program block long. Specializing in fine furniture, silver jewelry, become one of the leading decorative lighting and our very special team of experienced interior tapestries, paintings, clocks and objects of art, their manufacturers in the world due to its unique fixture designers and factory trained installers. Our talented varied collections hail from America, Europe, Africa design always focused on functionality, high quality, staff is always ready to work with you on that one and Asia. Featured in the photo from Flying Cranes and user-friendliness of its products. needed piece or on a total plan for your home. Antiques is a bronze and parcel gilt tennin-in-flight. Miya-o signature plaque. Meiji Period. Japan.
The Manhattan Art & Antiques Center 158 Bowery, New York, NY 10012. For the full Roset collection and 1050 Second Ave. NYC Tel: 800-807-1826. Quick Ship program: Tel: 212-355-4400 www.lightingbygregory www.lignerosetny.com www.the-maac.com
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78 the home observer fall 2010 Beautiful Greenhouses & Solariums
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Wittus – Fire by Design has the finest selection of European Zarin Fabrics is the largest resource of discounted contemporary indoor Yael Sonia’s modern cutting-edge jewelry creations designer fabrics in New York City. Established in 1936, and outdoor fireplaces, are as unique as each of its owners. Inspired by children’s this third generation business is stocked with thousands stoves, and accessories. toys this kinetic jewelry is comprised of rolling spheres, of bolts of upholstery and drapery fabrics. Zarin offers swinging pendulums and spinning tops. It’s jewelry that custom window treatment and upholstery services, as comes alive with its wearer as the melodic sounds are well as a wide selection of blinds and shades, ready 40 Westchester Ave., perpetually emitted when the fine gemstones and pearls made drapes, drapery hardware, upholstery supplies and POB 120, meet the art of handcrafted 18K gold structures. trimmings. Zarin Fabrics is the only place to go for your Pound Ridge, NY 10576 fabric, window treatment and upholstery needs! 914-764-5679 Yael Sonia art jewelry boutique at 922 Madison Avenue www.wittus.com (btw. 73rd & 74th Sts.), 212.472.6488 Zarin Fabrics yaelsonia.com 314 Grand Street, New York, NY, 212-925-6112
the home observer fall 2010 79 in the neighborhood
The studio’s workbench hides two pull-out beds. Left: #260 (2010) in aluminum. Dual Purpose
Thinking for two is a natural way of life for art- Dia Center for the Arts and the Whitney. For During a five-hour meeting, the architect ists Joe and John Dumbacher. The not-quite- the Dumbacher brothers, Gluckman was the and the artists decided on the colors and mate- identical twin brothers are also close collabora- clear choice for the project because of “his in- rials for the loft. The walls are painted in soft tors in the work they create together as artists. credible designs, and great work with artist’s shades of gray and white, and panels of ice-col- This creation, however, occurs on a cross-coun- studios [for] clients like Richard Serra, Chuck ored recycled refrigerator glass slide to enclose try basis: John lives in Washington, D.C., while Close and Robert Ryman,” explains Joe. the kitchen and twin dressing rooms. In the Joe is based in Pasadena, California. Their The photo of a wooden workbench that “paint room,” where things get dirty and dusty, geographic divide plays an John brought to the twins’ the floors are gray vinyl. important role in their art. first meeting with Gluck- Just as each detail of the loft was meticiously The Dumbachers create man was to become the planned, so was its location. “Hudson is an extra- models made from foam and inspiration for the main wide street, which provides better light for a tape, which they mail back room, which needed to studio,” says Joe. “We liked that it was south and forth across the country function as both studio of the galleries in Chelsea, as we can see shows to each other, eventually and living space. Design there and walk back along the river,” says Joe, rendering them actual size details allow every corner who spends up to six or seven weeks at a time in aluminum, chromed in of the studio to multitask. in New York, while John makes the trek from black. Like their art, the two A 22-inch-long Corian- Washington on weekends. “We both find New travel to a final destination topped cabinet bisects the York invigorating and exciting, as well as a dif- of collaboration—a shared space and hides beds that ferent kind of art scene from Los Angeles.” The loft on Hudson Street in West Tribeca. pop out on each side. A dressing room and twins, or at least their art, are more permanently The 1,000-square-foot space was once part closet for each brother flank a small open in residence through October 30 via a solo exhi- N Y c kroom y Ba y s of a 19th-century printers’ warehouse. Richard kitchen on the end wall. And a two-way bath- bition put on by Backroom NY at Leffot, a West t e Gluckman of Gluckman Mayner Architects, room window that provides a view across the Village shoe salon. the architect responsible for the apartment’s living space to Hudson Street becomes, when elegant transformation into a dual-purpose viewed from the other direction, a mirror that home and studio, has an artistic pedigree that maintains the privacy of the bathing area. “We CUT: A solo exhibition by Joseph iezel, Cour d M iezel, t er; Davi
includes work on a huge slice of the New York loved what Richard did,” says Joe. “It’s very and John Dumbacher -Por
art world—galleries for Larry Gagosian and workable and functions like a watch. It is very Through October 30, 2010 at Leffot, 10 Christopher t ree
Mary Boone, the Andy Warhol Museum, the integrated and well designed.” Street. Visit backroomny.com for details. Tim S
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