Gothic Touch: Inspired by the Churchyard

Inspired by the church view of the East Village two bedroom I showed you Monday, I've decided to divulge some secret obsessions: Darryl Carter and Gothic / Gothic Revival Decor. As I've been searching, I find it's no wonder that Mr. Carter is a fav- juxtaposing traditional forms and styles with a clean, modern palate, making every element in the room seem scupltural and important. What I've shown of Mr. Carter's has gothic elements that highlight what he does best.  I'm not one for excess ornamentation, but I do love the quality of craftsmanship (let's face it, laquered fiberboard is a bit soulless) and the patina of a historic piece.

1. Jayne Thompson Antiques French Oak Frame

2. A Darryl Carter Space from Architectural Digest

3. Via World of Interiors

4. Chandeliers at Christie's

5.7. Darryl Carter's Retail Space in D.C

6. Stained Glass Panel via Liveauctioneers

8. Painted Gothic Chair Set

The Happy Client: Kristin & Peter, Upper West Side

After almost a year at his Upper West Side apartment (featured here), Peter, his wife Kristin Rose of Oleander for Home and I are searching for a new apartment (actually, we have an application on one). Moving from Ottawa last year for a new position in Soho,  I met after he reached out to a few agents (including me) to help in his search for a NYC apartment...I was a bit late in my response, but after no follow-up from the agent he had engaged for his search (I had sent a "good luck" email and a list of documentation he'd need to secure an apartment here) he asked if I would help find he a Kristin and apartment. I did and the rest is history! We found a doorman, elevator building literally steps from Central Park which they've decorated in a modern meets traditional, fun meets elegant decor that feel spacious and comfortable.

For their new apartment (his building was sold this year, so moving out was a must), I focused on finding a one bedroom. After viewing a few walk-ups, Peter explained that he was happy with what he has now and that a good-sized studio in a doorman buidling would fit the bill. I can see why- by "zoning" his studio with area rugs, Kristin and Peter were able to create a sleeping/ dressing area, a living and dining space. Each area complements the next and with eggplant, chartreuse and grey "pops of color" throughout, each zone informs the next with both color and functional cues. "Look at the pattern in the bedding," explained Kristin. "If you look closely, all of the colors of the bedding are reflected throughout the apartment." It is and it works! In a month or so, you'll be able to see the new studio in my first "before and after". In the meantime, check out Kristin's Ottawa store, Oleander for Home, for the exquisite bedding, table and bath linens, kitchen and bath accessories that give this apartment it's luxurious feel.

Beautiful Curves: West Village at Christopher

As you walk into the small foyer of this flawless West Village studio, the impact of it's arched doorways, curvaceous base moldings and vaulted ceilings is immediate. The hardwood floors sparkle, the southern view is amazing- you feel as if you have all of Manhattan at your feet. The quality and finesse had me thinking about BDDW...I think some of the most beautifully designed and perfectly crafted home furnishings today. Visit them in Soho if you haven't already!

Location: West Village

 Size: Studio

Amenities: Doorman, Laundry

 Special Features: Pre-war Detail, Vaulted Ceilings, Ample Living Area, Closet Space, Renovated Kitchen with Granite, Stainless and Maple Cabinetry, Renovated Bathroom with Marble and Subway Tiles, View, Location

Rent: 3,200.00/mo
Contact: George Case at Citi Habitats, gcase@citi-habitats.com
773.983.0513

Furnishings: BDDW

Thrifty Me: Chelsea & The West Village

I love a bargain (and I buy and sell antiques a bit on the side), so with that said, New York is a surprising treasure trove of both! As I'm out and about in Chelsea and the West Village, I stop at the following thrifts- you have to go often and sometimes it's a hit and sometimes it isn't, but I find that it's more the former than the latter. Go see for yourself, as in real estate, there is no greater thrill than finding that treasure!

 Angel Street Thrift

Where? 118 West 17th Street, Chelsea

What? Furniture, Clothes, Art

 Housing Works

Where? 143 West 17th Street, Chelsea

What? Furniture, Clothes, Art

 St. Luke's Thrift

Where? 487 Hudson Street, West Village

What? Furniture, Clothes, Art

 Housing Works

Where? 245 West 10th, West Village

What? Furniture, Clothes, Art

ABC Home: Flatiron

 As I walked to work this morning, today's post was stuck in my head...Anita Calero's eclectic, refined style was top-of-mind as I walked by the iconic ABC Carpet & Home on my way to the office. Masters of eclectic buying and merchandising, their windows seemed especially relevant.



Inspiring Loft: Chelsea

I pay special attention to ceiling height and details like vaulted ceilings as I look at apartments throughout the day- they're details that really activate a space, creating a unique aesthetic and home. The Chelsea loft of photographer Anita Calero (photographs reblogged from style made simple) is a perfect example of this. Take a look at some of the apartments I've featured over the last week or so, they share similar "bones" for you to create something special with!