Standard Issue 8, Urban Holiday

STANDARD (eco)sophistiquĂŠ

urban

holiday, 2011 1

passionate about the process?

You love the whole process. Discovering that perfect recipe… going to the market to carefully choose your ingredients…adding those special little touches to make the meal uniquely and undeniably your own.

Elevate your passion for the process with the sheer joy of filling your work bowl to the very top with soups and sauces without worrying they’ll escape. Then keep the inspiration flowing with blades that stay locked in place when pouring out your purees and vinaigrettes. Marvel as you go from task to task, recipe to recipe, uninterrupted, with our remarkably versatile nesting bowls. Thick, thin, or somewhere in-between, any way you choose to slice it, you’re going to fall in love with the absolute precision of our 6-in-1 adjustable slicing disc, and flip for our reversible shredding disc.

Feed your insatiable appetite for cooking with Cuisinart.

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From the kitchen to the living room, sustainable designs crafted a few miles away from your home.

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urban holiday, 2011

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every issue The Letter 12 Newsreel Trend Predictor 17 1960s, we are so over you

On The Boards 22

gift guides for him, her and the little ones

On The Town 31

weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take Manhattan... and Brooklyn too

A Design Affair 120

making out with Rashon Carraway

Darling & Daring 130 our parting shot

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columns Perfectionist 116

Pinstripes. We adore them.

Wear the Room 118

Pasadena style inspires an upscale holiday ensemble

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62 86

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features Loft en bois 46

a timber-filled treat in Tribeca

le Petit Saavy 62

James Saavedra shows off his West Hollywood digs

even in suburbia 74

high art, fabulous antiques, eccentricity and... the suburbs

Home for the Holidays 86

resident rooms in a Los Angeles shelter get revamped by some of our favorite designers

Standard Visits 110

the ladies from Fleabag share their latest inspirations

Bonus Mini Feature: Inside the Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Studio 122

textile designer Kimberly Lewis in her charming Brooklyn apartment

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the letter As the holiday season approaches, I cannot help but find myself... ready! For the first time in years I don’t feel daunted by the idea of hosting Thanksgiving for friends, entertaining out of town guests all the way through the new year and traveling abroad for two weeks somewhere in the middle of it all. I’m actually looking forward to every moment!

This year at Standard we’ve decide to unwrap the urban holiday with gift guides for the Standard Man, Woman and Kiddie and an On The Town guide to New York City (because no one does the urban holiday better than New Yorkers!). If you’re planning a trip to be dazzled by those fabulous Fifth Avenue windows and bewitched by the snow in Central Park, be sure to take along our recommendations for not-to-be-missed experiences on both sides of the Brooklyn bridge.

Artist Paul Meyer and I are entertained by Robert Secrest's animated storytelling

By now you know us well enough to correctly assume that you will not find any DIY wreaths in here. Instead, how about we show you insanely beautiful urban dwellings—and one notso-urban space that defies the very idea of the cookie-cutter house (Even in the Suburbs, Page 74). Our special coverage of five designers' work in the newly-refreshed Good Sheperd Shelter in Los Angeles is something I am especially proud to feature. As a special holiday treat, our talented friend Beth Broderick, shares the moving tale of how the shelter changed her life—and her view on the LA holiday spirit—on page 86.

Happy Holidays,

Kelly LaPlante Editorial Director and Founder

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STANDARD Editorial Director and Founder: Kelly LaPlante

kelly@standardmag.com

Senior Features &Travel Editor: Lilianne Steckel lilianne@standardmag.com West Coast Features Editor: Kelly Thompson thompson@standardmag.com Markets Editor: Jenny Gumbert jenny@standardmag.com Online Editor and Director of Partnerships: Mallory Hamel mallory@standardmag.com Staff Photographer: Spencer Selvidge Contributing Photographers: Laure Joliet, Erika Bierman, David Young-Wolff Columnists: James Saavedra, Katherine Brown Contributing Writer: Beth Broderick Contributing Stylist: Erin Griffin Graphics Consultant: Sarah Edmonds Publishing Consultant: Diane Turner Content Manager: Dan Reade Interns: Cecelia Hoy, Mona Miltenburger, Joanne Kim

never miss an issue standardmag.com/subscribe

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NEWSREEL trend-predictor urban holiday, 2011 Baby itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cold outside, but these trends are hot. Here we present three noteworthy news items that are sure to aid in your search for new treasures. Whether you need something to add a little disco to your dĂŠcor or want to make a bold statement, we have the perfect pieces to help warm your abode.

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newsreel trend 60s (over) saturation bring on the 70s!

Yes, we are as obsessed with Mad Men as much as the next Don Draper lovin’ gal (or guy) but we are also tired of being hit over the head with how great the 60s were­—we know! The onslaught of 60s television—Pan Am, The Hour and the now defunct The Playboy Club—has made us just plain tired of seeing midcentury-mod slathered everywhere. It's time to usher in the super groovy 70s.

Laura Lombardi on Beklina

Bouroullec

we predict...

...we will be immersed in everything 70s—hippie glam of course. Let’s stay away from bad polyester blends and horrible haircuts and stick to items that bring to mind a bohemian goddess.

Long flowing dresses and a classedup version of tie-dye will take over the runways, while macramé and a 70s color palette will be seen in home décor.

Sally England

Swedish Hasbeens

Shabd

Romp

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newsreel trend open occupation stand up and shout!

If you haven’t noticed a trove of displeased people holding up signs somewhere in your city, then may we invite you to step outside your front door? Occupy Wall Street started as a grassroots movement on the footsteps of New York’s most powerful and affluent thoroughfare. But the outrage of the 99% has spread further than anyone could have possibly imagined—from corners of America to large international cities like London. The movement doesn’t seem to be losing steam anytime soon.

Buckland/Balkin Capefarewell.com

we predict...

...an uprising of activistism! As we have witnessed in all of our cities, to say that people are upset is an understatement. It is when there is an intense outrage amongst the majority that the best art is created. At the recent SXSW Eco conference, artist and activist David Buckland discussed how art is the most effective form of activism—we couldn’t agree more. Expect to see strong messages portrayed in art and slammed onto décor and fashion.

Where do you stand?

tech nostalgia all that steve did

Steve Jobs was our era's Alexander Graham Bell, and it was a sadly surreal day when he passed away early this October. The Apple mastermind was more responsible for modern technology and design than we could ever comprehend. It's the most significant life lost in the technology industry thus far... so we can't help but take a moment to appreciate all that he did to shape the world as we know it...

ipaint mymac Satta Van Daal

we predict... ...an intense nostalgia not only for his work, but technology in general. A blend of old and new will come to the forefront, as well as an extreme reverence for all of Jobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accomplishments.

The Apple insignia will remain as popular as ever, but a look towards who will be the next great innovator will also be on the minds of the world.

En&Is

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on the boards

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gifts for the standard man

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1. Pocket Square by Study on Brave Gentleman, $22 The Standard Man likes to keep his pockets well adorned.

2. Book Ends by Daniel Ballou available at Open Bookstore, price upon request 3. Sunglasses by Modo, $160 4. All-natural Beard Oil by MCMC Fragrances, $65 For the mountain man who wants to give his beard a little love.

5. Letterpress Camera Art Print by Sycamore Street Press, $35 6. The Device Sleeve in Black Bark by Looptworks, $26 7. Sir Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Condoms, $12.99 for a box of 12 For every condom purchased, one is donated to a country in need!

8. Drona - Large Hexagonal Wine Rack in Walnut by Steric Design, $465 9. Black Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Robe by Nandina, $189.99

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on the boards

gifts for the standard woman 1

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1. Chevron Throw from Nube Green, $135 2. Bridget Lampshade by Design Bark, ÂŁ150 Geometry and stellar design come together in this lampshade.

3. Glassybaby in Eggplant by Glassybaby, $40 4. Vintage Small Modern Penguin Set from AMRadio, $43

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5. All Season Topper by EmersonMade, $228 6. KISS Portrait by DNA 11, starting at $299 Created by using an image of your own lips, these portraits are a perfect statement piece!

7. Ceremony Necklace by Sword and Fern, $72 8. Upcycled Leather Button Wallet by Poketo, $38 9. Nights Napkin by Knife in the Water, $12 each So beautiful that sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want to use them every day.

10. Kuro Soap by Sort of Coal, $70

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on the boards

gifts for the standard kiddie

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1. Cottage Town by Ontwerpduo, €9,95 2. Zimbbos! Game by Blue Orange Games, $25.99 The perfect combination of skill building and creative fun!

3. Mod Rocker in Cherry by iglooplay, $295 4. Kid’s Thank You Card by Noteworthy on Invitationbox.com, price online A custom thank you card so that your kiddo can give a proper “thanks!”

5. Organic one piece by le toit de la lune on Thumbeline, $78 So adorable that you’ll wish that you could still rock a onesie.

6. Masked Poster by Mini and Maximus, $40 7. Dayjamas and Scarf by Kids Organic, $36 and $11

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soup is on!

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Then they just use the stir function as if they were stirring a pot with a spoon to mix ingredients while cooking. Now, only this blender can cook a batch of soup, sauce and even desserts, plus blend a smoothie, crush ice and make vinaigrette. So, go ahead and “stir” up some hot sales with the Cuisinart Blend and Cook Soup Maker.

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on the town

new york, new york “One belongs to New York instantly, one meet—we could go on and on with our belongs to it as much in five minutes as in list of what is stupendous, but we thought five years.” -Thomas Wolfe it would be best to show you a special assemblage of places we are fond of.

There is a magnetic attraction that sweeps you off of your feet each time you arrive Go forth and enjoy the ever-evolving and the city wraps you up in its irrepressible magic that is NYC. What could be more style and inspiration. Countless swanky festive, chic and fabulous than spending places to go and wonderful people to the holidays in the city?

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on the town ROUGE TOMATE

The perfect restaurant should be like the perfect man—pristine appearance and sweet disposition, they make you feel wonderful and they're always maturing for the better. Enter Rouge Tomate, the answer to all of your food prayers. Find a marriage between the show-stopping design of the space by Bentel&Bentel and the artful grace of the food by Executive Chef, Jeremy Bearman. This dream in Midtown Manhattan holds a natural color palette dressed with splashes of rouge that fill the space with an airy sophistication. Downstairs, a cranberry pool separates dining nooks with private rooms—one containing an open kitchen that is a pretty sight for us foodies. Their seasonal menu is full of surprising delights to liberate your taste buds from the usual winter staples. Truly superior in design and taste, this is what we believe a fine dining experience should be—one that leaves you feeling satiated and delighted. rougetomatenyc.com

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on the town MOOMAH

We stumbled upon this little gem of a coffee shop and instantly pondered how we could pack it up and take it home with us. It should be cloned in every city to rescue all of the parents trying to entertain their kiddies and have a decent cup of joe at the same time! The tike-oriented activities are artistic and adorable, better yet, they also give the parents time to even enjoy that coffee they ordered. They even have Mom’s Night Out art workshops for kid-free crafts, they do think of everything! moomah.com

SLICE

Miki began Slice as a purely entrepreneurial dream and has taken it to great heights, focusing on every detail. This is not “just pizza”, this is the crème de la crème of savory pies! You have officially stepped into an alternate universe where it’s ok to eat pizza when you feel the urge and can walk away feeling light and satisfied! Oh Slice, we have been dreaming about you ever since! sliceperfect.com

FAMILY RECIPE

Family Recipe is a new restaurant on the Lower East Side, full of unique menu items with ingredients that are Japanese infused and artfully prepared. Try their sparkling sake for a delicious treat as you sample from the menu of light yet indulgent flavors. We could certainly see dining here on a weekly basis and joining the family that they have created. familyrecipeny.com

WILD EDIBLES

A casual seafood sanctuary like this is a must on any trip, but customary to New York eateriesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it outdoes the usual. The oyster menu alone had us at hello and we relished the sweet delights of a sampler platter with all of our favorites varieties (plus some newbies). You can also grab fresh fish to cook at home during the day from the market counter. wildedibles.com

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on the town THE FARM ON ADDERLEY

In the heart of Brooklyn, you will find the quaint little neighborhood of Flatbush lined with Victorian homes and set at a relaxed pace (compared to the rest of the city). THE place to eat in this area is The Farm on Adderly, which was opened five years ago by Chef/Owner Tom Kearney and Gary Jonas. Open for all three meals each day, they have mastered a tasty menu including a chocolate and sea salt brioche which is sinful for the mornings. Everything is thoughtfully plated in a colorful array that makes you stop and admire before diving in. thefarmonadderley.com

DUMPLING DIVA

Marja Samsom is too fabulous for words–we could say that her look is superbly New York, that her accent will make you love her instantly, that her personality is bursting with sassy attitude, that she has an infectious love for life, oh and don’t forget her dangerously yummy food—but I think you need to find out for yourself (even though our word is as good as gold). She has been making Euro-Japenese dumplings since the 1980s and is always coming up with new ideas to fuse flavors together. Hire this Dumpling Diva for a private party or lesson and see for yourself! thedumplingdiva.blogspot.com

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on the town

NEW YORK VINTAGE

These fine vintage connoisseurs know how to play up the theatrics in everything they doâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;I mean, talk about a window display! At New York Vintage, they work with many stars, dressing them in extravagant pieces that can never be upstaged and therefore are not likely to be worn again. Lady Gaga has had many a headdress from them and even Michelle Obama donned one of their outfits (in fact, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;twas the first vintage worn by a first lady). Needless to say, we drooled over all of the insane inventory in their private collection. newyorkvintage.com

ANNABELLE

The first winner of the fashion competition show, “The Fashion Show” on Bravo, Anna McCraney started her collection and boutique as a victor. Now at Annabelle, you can purchase her feminine, stylish pieces for your own wardrobe. Even though her fashion ethics are on the up-and-up, she still knows how to have a good time by sharing laughter and her well stocked bar with her patrons. We are so excited for Anna and her locally-made fashion gems to be able to shine for everyone now. annabellenyc.com

BIRD

Well designed by architect, Ole Sondresen, Bird is an über chic boutique in Williamsburg.

It’s hard to decide which to admire first—the design of the shop, the cute sales associates or the various goodies displayed! Well, we enjoyed them all with time and recommend you do too. Stay tuned to see more from Ole in the issue. shopbird.com

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on the town john houshmand and jh2

John Houshmand just launched a new line of his work, titled JH2, to bridge the gap between “being in a hotel lobby and a hotel room” as he describes it. He still has his custom line of jaw-dropping wood furniture but this new collection will have more stock available and a smaller asking price, while still keeping his signature design style. “You make the concept pieces to turn heads...it’s like couture”. Then provide a great collection that is more approachable for a broad clientele, JH2 does just that. jh2onetreehome.com johnhoushmand.com

bddw

Having perfected the art of fine furniture making, BDDW stands out from the crowd with their surprising and witty details. We love to admire, not only the smart furniture, rugs and lighting, but the ingenious props and gadgetry scattered about their SoHo showroom. About half of these are made by their team for funâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; like the acoustical contraptions they have been dabbling with lately. We love thinking outside of the preconceived design box and admiring companies like this that do it so gracefully. bddw.com

uhuru design

Uhuru is the Swahili word for freedom and Uhuru Design is just thatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a creative collective of cute young peeps that have freed themselves from the boring cookiecutter furniture pigeonhole. Instead, they are making amazing furniture that rocks at being incredibly well made yet fun. With a brand new retail showroom space below their office and workshop in Brooklyn, these guys are stepping it up! We were thrilled to see it on their first day open and love the artistic energy free-flowing around them all. uhurudesign.com 41

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loft

en bois

architecture by ole sondresen written by lilianne steckel

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esigners and architects never have a shortage of inspirations strewn across their memory banks and feeding into their work in subtle ways. But on rare occasions one gets to encounter a project, actually walk through it, learn about its inception and allow it to truly strike you as extraordinary. This may be different for everyone—a visit to one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s houses, a tour around the Judd Foundation or perhaps just a spin around your local Modern Homes Tour. On a cloudy day in Tribeca, we got an insiders’ look at a flawlessly gorgeous dwelling that made a lasting impression. This striking loft is as individual as the residents and architect who built it.

Imagine clanking up in an industrial elevator to the top floor of a tall brick building nestled in the Landmark District. The doors slide open and you are greeted by a white family room that is full of light from a bank of windows that overlook the city line, including the new site for the World Trade Center in the distance. But as you turn to your right, you are pulled into the heart of the home—a homage to wood— so much wood that you become aware that an intense love affair is happening here. But this appreciation of timber doesn’t seem heavy or peculiar and does not swallow the design in any way. Instead, it feels just perfect, like an aged bottle of bourbon–smooth and warming– highlighting all of the pristine details and enhancing the welcoming feeling of the home.

This is the residence of a beautiful family— Sarah (model turned architect) and Paul Sohn with their daughter Coco, one more baby on the way and their boisterous Bengal Leopard cat, Kalisto.

Having lived in the original property and embraced its party loft vibe, Sarah and Paul realized that they would need to turn it into a family space before they could begin having children. Starting renovations in 2004, the process was long but well worth the time and effort when completed in October 2010.

Working with local architect, Ole Sondresen, they wanted to unify the two concepts typical of New York living–the loft-style open dwelling vs. the multi-room home. What they achieved is a successful blend of both worlds, “making a house into a loft” as Ole describes it. The intimate spaces in the center of the galley-style plan—kitchen, living room, bourbon lounge, guest bedroom, bath and Coco’s bedroom— feel homey and grounded. The front and rear rooms–family and master bedroom–have an airy, loft vibe with one long main corridor that connects them to the rest of the chambers.

In the front room, the family space, there is a peppering of wood with flooring from a temple in southeast Asia that was blown down by a tornado. It was reclaimed and the money from its sale was returned to help the re-build of a new temple there. The center of attention is an expansive Compass dining table made by Palo Samko with entombed compass parts pointing directionally and positioned under a Lindsey Adelman luminosity. A Michael Thompson photograph and Banksy street art line the long walls and a small play area for Coco sits under the windows.

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Left : Balloon Girl by graffiti artist Banksy, hangs over a credenza designed by Palo Samko. Next to the Compass dining table and chairs also designed by Samko.

Right : 380-year-old pine reclaimed from a Crosby St. loft is the skeleton of the kitchen. Niche Modern pendants float above the counter. Venice Art Tiles create a hint of color on the backsplash.

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A Dustin Yellin resin sculpture sits on a separation between the living nook and the steel stair. Love by Roberto Dutesco warms the space.

Lighting by Niche Modern hangs from the panelled ceiling.

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A copper formation found on the bottom of the Great Lakes is a commanding entrypiece hung above stairs to the roof.

Ole, born in Norway and now an architect in NYC, started working with carpentry in his father’s woodworking shop before going to university. This craftsman lineage is deeply rooted in all of his work. Wood, whether reclaimed or responsibly new, has an innate energy and character unlike other materials. In this application, it is soft, warm and smooth to the touch on every surface. Allowing for the natural variations and imperfections, it is a refined beauty that improves with age and envelopes the home.

Up the stairs in the center of the unit you will find a rooftop garden that is private and borders a small public garden space for the other tenants. All the newly planted species are subject to “survival of the fittest” as Ole mentions—what grows best after this first year will be the winner that holds the glory of remaining. A curtain of growing wisteria is starting to fill in above a dining table and showering down alongside the glass box entrance. This well utilized open-air space has separate nooks for various outdoor activities—an enviable bonus.

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Back inside, the balanced vision achieved between client and architect instills the powerful interior with an essence of the artful life they lead. Just across the staircase is a small sitting room cocooned in walnut, called the bourbon room, aptly named after its primary guest. A high-efficiency fireplace sits across from two cozy chairs crowned by a Slinkachu photograph. With a large bar holding an extensive range of bourbons and a desk built in flawlessly to the wall for tipsy correspondence, this nook is a favorite for

winter evenings. Hidden structural elements are common throughout the design and take full advantage of the square footage (key in a city where space is so precious). Nooks otherwise empty and forgotten are utilized with a hidden cabinetâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;extra storage or clever purposeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all seamlessly integrated. Vents that blend into the ceiling corner lines are almost invisible to the initial glance, letting the eye wander the areas without distraction from unsightly mechanical or industrial components.

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Above: A painting by Corno hangs above the guest sleeping quarters.

Opposite Page: Interior doors to the bathrooms have three materials framed together in a beautiful presentation with cat doors built into the bottom center panel and self catching door stops built into the floor.

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At the end of the corridor, the lofty master bedroom is framed with brick walls and views of neighboring brick buildings. A DWR bed and end tables commandeer the main wall with FLOS lamps giving soft lighting. Custom designed lighting

by Ole, the luminary himself, adds another layer to the elements nestled together. The Sand Dollar light (with up and down lighting) is center mounted in the master and floats above the bed. The â&#x20AC;&#x153;nonlight or random lightâ&#x20AC;? as he likes to call it, is a small fixture mounted on the wood-paneled ceilings found throughout the home. It has an exposed filament bulb with a chrome ceiling plate that reflects the surroundings rather than the light. A lot of the elements seem to be derived directly from their purpose, keeping in mind that if

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to make something, make it beautiful or not at all.

Visual texture is found on every surface and enhances the structure of each room. Lines, whether horizontal or vertical, play with one another in this linear layout, complimented by the organic shapes in the furniture and lighting as well as the accomplished art collection. In essence of architectural perfection, no detail has been forgotten by Ole and Sarah in this design filled with grace and style. Brought together by the project, they now continue to work together at Ole's firm. Chock-full of minute extras executed with utmost caution and skill, this loft is an urban dwellers fantasy. y olesondresen.com

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le petit saavy interior design & story by james saavedra photographed by laure joliet

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From House Beautiful 1976, the burl table by John Saladino was the impetus for the overhaul. The bronze art piece, created from four JAK table legs, was inspired by the vintage diamond Lucite table base. Pillow fabric is from Stark, jute roller shades are from Pier One and the Horn Table is from Z Gallerie (circa 2006). Chairs and sofa are JAK Studio Collection.

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or the longest time I used to live in an all white world. Each time I walked through the door it was as if I was letting out a deep exhale that contained all of the day’s ups, downs and everything in between. It was chic, serene and for many years felt right...but slowly the craving for change came tapping me on the shoulder. This time around I set my sights on creating a home that reflected the modern day me; sophisticated, understatedly elegant and approachable. It’s anchored by blocks of masculine dark color and crisp contemporary geometric shapes—accented with unexpected brights, diverse works of art, and my favorite warm metals of bronze, brass and gold. Frankly put, my pied-à-terre (once entirely Mr. Nice Guy) grew a pair.

stalagmite diamond table base I rescued and reinvented from a Palm Springs second hand store. My petite studio is also my personal testing grounds for all things JAK—from the oxidized iron Oscar taboret topped off with 23kt gold to the retro inspired winged back sofa or the adorable, charcoal, Oliver taboret (named after my pup).

The secret to delivering sophisticated living to every imaginable space—mine included— comes from a design formula I have honed for over 13 years. Emotional quality + classic foundations + well-edited details= understated elegance. It is my signature style and, when applied, proves you can live smartly, chicly and with infinite style, no matter the size of the space.

Classic foundations are always present in my design work. In my home, the handkerchief linen draperies, pale ivory walls (which highlight any type of art work beautifully) and worn chestnut colored hardwood floor create the perfect backdrop for a well-edited furniture plan. Multiple groupings exist, each made up of pieces that offer more than just a single function—like the 1976 John Saladino Burl table with its hidden cocktail trays, or the space-opening crystal clear Lucite column table, Louis Ghost chairs, and a vintage Lucite

The JAK Studio Collection solid iron candlestick, hand leafed in 23kt gold and hand antiqued through The Forge Shop, embodies JAK’s credo of artisanal detailing, uncompromised quality and core sustainability.

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I am able to entertain a lively gathering of eight just as easily and comfortably as an intimate few. I mix high with low, vintage with custom and never fret that Oliver favors the silk pillows. This place is meant to be lived in, after all, and the luxurious touches make me love it every day. To me, the spoon I stir my coffee with is just as important as the sofa.

Of course there are other gilded rules. I always incorporate things that are handmade as they bring a sense of humility and imperfection. I add a bit of sparkleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but I do it through natural materials like poured glass, mother of pearl, icy selenite, glossy horn and hefty chunks of free-form crystals or geodes.

This page: Mama looks over me hard at work. The custom brass and glass console opens to a six-person dining table. Ikea cabinets were hand leafed in hot fuchsia (real men like pink!). On the desk is a marker rendering of the first chair I designed and had manufactured.

Opposite: Triptych of 1980s paper art from Greg Copeland; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bird is the Word Maoâ&#x20AC;? vinyl toy by Frank Kozik; Vinyl Lettering via France; lilac glass sculpture from the Tacoma Glass Museum. Selenite logs add natural sparkle.

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An Antique Bone Convex Mirror from JF Chen in LA dramatizes the bed. Pillow fabrics are from Kravet and Stark Fabric. A simple vintage Casella Lamp in tarnished Brass Slim sits on one side of the bed, juxtaposed against a vignette that includes an iron console, the Oliver taboret by JAK Studio Collection, a Pegasus sculpture from Pier One and a Gold Glass Sculpture from the Tacoma Glass Museum.

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I throw in at least one item that shouldn’t make sense or goes against the grain. I count on the fact that we are all tactile creatures and invite all the senses to experience indulgent textures, slick lacquered finishes, spicy scented woods or perfume flowers, and so forth. I pay attention to scale and know when to deliberately throw it off. I pick a few key colors and use them in their full spectrum—like the softest dusty pinks in the paper art to the bold punch of hot peony gilded cabinets in the bedroom to intensely saturated ruby fuchsia in the silk pillows and Ikat outdoors. The same holds true for the warm metals, from shiny new brass to deeply tarnished bronze, full of character.

Last but certainly not least, I fill the space with visual feasts. In my home, the lilac glass serves as a reminder of a wonderful trip with friends to the Tacoma glass museum. There is a nonapologetic bust of Mao adorned with Mickey Mouse ears and a dangling cigarette and a cherished photo of my mother, whose beauty I will alwasy be in awe of. y saavedradesignstudio.com

Above: A handmade brass tray, atop the JAK Lexington walnut bar cabinet, holds favorite libations and quality glassware. Heavy cut crystal double old fashions are from WS Home and Architectural column champagne flutes are from Crate and Barrel. The artwork is a mix of a bold metal piece and an experimental piece I created when I was teaching myself the art of gold leafing.

Opposite: The 1970s vintage cigar lamp came from a client’s living room renovation, handmade Ikat Pillows are from Etsy. The antiqued gold leafed African Cameroon cocktail table had a previous life in my living room and a vintage Bertoia Wire Chair provides exrtra seating. The outdoor fire was constructed from two glass shelves I had laying about and a galvanized aluminum reducer I discovered in the trunk of my car.

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AN ECCENTRIC COLLECTOR OF ART & ANTIQUES PROVES THAT EXTRAORDINARY DESIGN IS POSSIBLE...

even in

suburbia architecture by lundgren and maurer interior design by robert secrest photographed by spencer selvidge

This page: A late 18th century Beaux Art chest and a sculpture by Paul Meyer sit at the end of the long hall. Opposite: Robert Secrest in his living room and the facade of the home, just as it was in 1957.

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A wire sculpture (a work in progress called Napoleonic Bee Hive Chandelier) by Paul Meyer, mixed with an antique crystal candelabra creates a holiday centerpiece that is anything but ordinary

T

he year was 1957 and Robert Secrest was nine years old.

Two doors down from his family’s home in Temple, Texas, something exciting and foreign was luring him into a world that he never knew existed.

He and his friend Michael watched, with their eyes wide and their hearts racing. Mr. and Mrs. Roddy came and went, each time bringing glamour, intrigue and scandal as they worked with architects Lundgren and Maurer to build the neighborhood’s first modern home.

“I’d never seen architecture like this­... or landscaping that wasn’t a grass lawn” Robert recalls “it was thrilling.”

When the house was completed, the young boys worked up the courage to knock on the front door and ask for a tour of the home they’d been fantasizing about.

“Mr. Roddy answered and said ‘it’s not convenient’ and then slammed the door. I never saw the inside of the house until I bought it... fiftytwo years later!”

Buy it he did, and today when one passes through the threshold, they are instantly transported to the world of design that Robert embraced in the years that passed between the first time he set 77

his eyes on the home and the day he bought it­ . Secrest has a sharp eye for antiques and has amassed an impressive collection that is everchanging in its arrangement. Pair that with his bloodhound-like ability to sniff out emerging talents in the art world and it’s no wonder so many guests experience the strange sensation that they are visiting an urban atelier­in the early 1960s. In fact, once the first drink is poured, one might entirely forget that they are in the suburban heartland of America, circa 2011.

White is the backdrop for everything in Robert’s home. The ceilings are glossed with a snowy shade so pure that when the sun is setting outside the reflections dance above the table like the Aurora Borealis. The lack of color allows Robert to manipulate the spaces according to his mood.

Because gatherings of friends are a common occurrence, furniture can easily float around to meet the needs of parties large and small­(the terrazzo floor makes this extra simple). “I just scoot everything around” Robert says.

While decorating and entertaining certainly fall high on the list, it is Robert’s passion for the work of upand-coming artist Paul Meyer that resonates most these days. The story of their friendship is something that, again, takes one back to another

time­­ —a time when passionate art collectors would genuinely support and foster the work of young artists, and help them make their way in the world.

Robert’s fascination with Paul’s work began several years ago after they met at an event and Robert suggested that Paul join him and Aaron Gist, whose work Robert also collects, on a gallery trip to Marfa, Texas.

“Aaron told me that Robert wanted to see some work so I finished up six or seven pieces I was working on at the time and set them up in the banquet room of Hotel Paisano where we were staying. It went over well and Robert ended up buying every piece I brought.”

Robert explains his immediate infatuation with Paul’s work with a story from his past. “When I was living in New York many years ago, I found a beautiful painting on the street... it was white but, at the same time, not white and I called it ‘La Strada’.

I was a part of my life every day and the day I left New York I put it back on the street, just where I found it.

When I saw Paul’s pieces it was like ‘whammo!’ They reminded me so much of ‘La Strada’ that I had to have them... and also because they were f#!king incredible.”

Left: A pair of brass fish door handles are original to the house.

“Broken Toe” by Aaron Gist, holds court on the patio outside the dining and living rooms. Above: Robert’s bright and open den is an ever-changing arrangement of his antiques.

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Artist Paul Meyer puts his feet up on an English footstool from Scully and Scully in New York. Ecology by Meyer leans against the wall.

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In the living room, Robert entertains artists Paul Meyer (walking), Lonnie Edwards (seated, left) and Aaron Gist with his daughters Emily and Kate. An Antebellum French mirror leans against the wall, next to Ego, Individuation and Bound by Paul Meyer.

Below: Paul Meyerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Immeasurable Sobriety of the Burro and a railroad tie sculpture by Aaron Gist anchor an additional seating area in the living room.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;the first time I saw him, I thought Robert looked like a cross between Hunter S. Thompson and the British actor Bill Nighy...â&#x20AC;? says artist Paul Meyer 83

Robert began thinking about finding a dramatic headboard right around the time that Paul was becoming more interested in creating interior objects. As though the two men were sharing one mind, Paul made a sunburst mirror for his wife within weeks of Robert coming across a picture of a sunburst headboard at the recently restored Villa Tre Ville in Positano. “As he was describing it to me over the phone I just blurted out that I would make one...and so it was” Paul tells. “I used many discarded wood scraps from construction sites, tree limbs from our property and an old brass shower frame from a remodel I had just finished”.

He continues passionately painting (both artistic and decorative)­, drawing, sculpting, and residential design. Meanwhile, Robert is planning two formal events to showcase Paul’s work in the coming months.

“Robert came into my life at a very poignant time when I was in a lot of self doubt and I was unsure whether or not the work I was producing could even be constituted as a worthwhile endeavor” Paul shares. “I really am not sure if I would still be painting, had we not crossed paths. He has been a great confidant and has always been supportive of the work even in its most entangled and dark hours.” y

Paul is now working on a series of chairs— made primarily of discarded lumber, tree paulmeyerstudios.tumblr.com limbs and roots—as well as co-creating a custom fan-light fixture with Standard’s Editorial Director, designer Kelly LaPlante.

A custon headboard by Paul Meyer commands attention in Robertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedroom.

Antique mirrored cubes serve as night tables and a French drawing by Soulet rests in a corner chair.

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home for the

HOLIDAYS

in downtown los angeles, a group of designers make a shelter feel like home

INTRODUCTION BY BETH BRODERICK

S

Designed by Erica Islas Photographed by Erika Bierman

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I

t was just three days before Christmas. I had recently relocated to Los Angeles from New York and was having trouble engaging the Christmas spirit... palm trees and sunshine just do not jingle my bells. My friend Lorraine and I were doing some last minute shopping at a Music Plus store on Fairfax (this should give you some indication of how long ago this took place, Music Plus ceased operations over twenty years ago).

We were in the parking lot when something caught our eye. There was a van parked in the farthest space and something seemed off about it. It was one of those moments when instinct overcomes caution. Something was just not right in that van.

We tapped on the window and the woman inside cranked the handle slowly, her eyes wide with fear.

There were three young children in the van with her, clutching toys and one another. The woman had a large bruise on the left side of her face. She did not have to explain...we instinctively knew she had been abused and was on the run. This parking lot was her only refuge. We asked if she had enough fuel to drive a few blocks to Lorraineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home and she nodded yes.

Designed by Irene Lovett Photographed by Laure Joliet

We pulled out of the lot slowly hoping that she Lorraine’s driveway. Two days passed. I was still would have the courage to follow and breathed making calls and working every angle to no a sigh of relief when she pulled out behind us. avail. The family ate and bathed in the house...

Christmas Eve was tomorrow and, having given Once home, Lorraine set about feeding the kids up trying to place them, we scrambled to find and I gathered laundry so that we could give gifts for the kids. Around 9:00 PM, with the them clean clothes to wear. The woman had family settled in their van, we had collapsed a severe limp, but said it was nothing and set on the sofa when the phone rang and Sister about bathing them. Lorraine and I pondered Joan’s unmistakable Irish accent came over the our next move. I began to make calls to City line. “I’ve got them a place” she said “ they services and shelters. The news was not good. can come tomorrow to this address. We will To this day there are almost no facilities in Los give them a good Christmas.” “God bless you Angeles that can house a woman with her Sister,” I said through tears, “I will not forget children. Many families in this situation are my promise.” “I’ll count on that,” she said and split up with the mother housed in one place that was goodnight. and the children in another. This mother would never agree to that.

The nuns at Good Shepherd have rescued countless women and their children over the After placing at least a dozen calls I was years. I kept my word and my friends and beginning to worry that the family would be family provide Christmas gifts for the families consigned to the van for the foreseeable future. every year. I used to give Sister Joan candy but I placed a call to the Good Shepherd Shelter she begged me to stop. “I‘ll be fat as a house if and Sister Joan Mary answered, her warm you keep this up” she’d say with a ready smile. voice accented with an Irish lilt. “Oh no,“ she She retired a few years back, but the work goes said, “we are over capacity and so is everyone on. else. There is just no place to put them...a terrible shame so many with no where to go.” This year, a group of designers volunteered I begged, I cajoled, I pleaded with Sister Joan their services to create a nurturing environment to help me place them. “I’m yours for life” I in the rooms that the shelter provides...and said. I will volunteer, raise money, anything I remain so grateful to Good Shepherd for you need... just please do what you can!” “All answering my call on that Christmas so long right,” she said with a heavy sigh, “I’ll see what ago. Amidst the palm trees and under the I can do.” blazing California sun the spirit of Christmas shines brightly in their hearts all year round The woman refused the medical attention and has opened mine forever. y she clearly needed, but accepted our offering of blankets and flashlights and the use of goodshepherdshelter.org 89

Dwell Studio bedding and pillows by Modern Chic and James Saavedra cozy up the bed with its custom burlap headboard by IDG Studio Photographed by Erika Bierman

Photographed by David Young-Wolff

Photographed by Erika Bierman

Erica Islas of EMI Interior Design Erica Islas designed an airy retreat taking inspiration from a Ralph Lauren-meetsNautica theme. She wanted the resident to feel “comforted by the simplicity of colors and materials used”. At a challenging 132 square feet, the use of space was of great importance to her layout. Thanks to a custom designed bookcase divider at the entry, separation and incredible storage are combined. “Multi-functional furniture pieces are KEY in small spaces.” There is a living area, sleeping area, work area and a bath area with enough room in the middle to stretch out a yoga mat. A lot of the designers tend

to be very hands on during the installation due to the time crunch, Erica was not an exception. She and her team made white shiplap climb three quarters of the wall. “I remember sitting on the floor in the room during a lunch break and really soaking it in and enjoying the moment. It was really fun to work on this project together with my team and my vendors, we really had a great time doing it. It’s an amazing feeling to be doing something so simple like this that you know will affect others in a big, positive way.” emiinteriordesign.com

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A chair by MadeGoods nooks between a JAK Studio end table and the custom-built wood room divider to create a living area.

A serene art piece hangs above a custom designed desk built by Eclectics Cabinetry forming an inspiring work corner. Both arrangements rest on a chevron patterned rug from The Rug Warehouse.

Photographed by David Young-Wolff

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Irene Lovett of DesignstILes Originally starting as an assistant to a fellow designer on the project, Irene Lovett was soon given her own unit to deck out. With the idea of a simple but detailed accommodation for her future tenant, Irene created a welcoming room sprinkled with thrift shop finds. Her goal was to form “A feeling of home and belonging with injections of inspiration.” The photo above the bed of a llama (from a friend’s trip to Peru) compliments the linen,

Photographed by Laure Joliet

floral-fabric headboard, joining the classic with the adorable. Even though she didn’t get to meet the room’s assigned inhabitant, she did receive a message from her afterwards. “I still tear up thinking about it. I just want to say thank you and I hope she’s enjoying it. It was such a pleasure being on board such an amazing project.” designstiles.me

Photographed by Laure Joliet

Photographed by Laure Joliet

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Thrift shops finds have been re-painted to suit their new tasks and sit atop a sisal rug from Ikea. The llama photo becomes the focal point over the bed and unifies the space.

Photographed by Laure Joliet

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This H2O Rocks Chandelier designed by Marcia and Paul has hanging strands of quartz crystals with the addition of smoky topaz and citrine.

They wanted the crystals to infuse positive energy into the environment every day.

Photographed by Erika Bierman

Photographed by Erika Bierman

Photographed by Erika Bierman

Marcia Zia-Priven and Paul Priven of Zia-Priven Design The only room to have two windows allowed designers, Marcia Zia-Priven and Paul Priven, the opportunity to be inspired by the natural colors from the view of the gardens outside.

Earth tones with punches of sea blues and greens permeate tranquility into this oasis and the custom-made lighting adds a touch of allure. “We wanted to infuse glamour into the space and remind the tenant, whoever she may be, that she is a very special person.

There’s nothing like opening your eyes each morning to sparkling rock crystal.” Every woman can appreciate that. Marcia and Paul had the pleasure of meeting their tenant

halfway through the install. “We brought her into the room and asked, ‘Be completely honest, is there anything you need?’ She was delighted with the space but she had one request—a reading lamp next to her chair.

Music to a lighting designer’s ears! Paul went to the studio in a creative frenzy and made a floor lamp for her within hours from found spare parts and an extra shade. That floor lamp turned out to be one of our favorite things.” ziapriven.com

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Marcia created this abstract painting specially for her tenant, awakening her first love of painting.

The whole team helped make the custom driftwood sculpture below it.

A Dwell Studio chocolate Zig Zag quilt drapes the foot of the bed.

Photographed by Erika Bierman

A banana leaf trunk anchors the foot of the bed atop a Karastan Rug. Repurposed parts made into lamps dot the room. A Fallen Wood end table by Tucker Robbins holds used books next to the writing desk.

Photographed by Erika Bierman

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Nadia Geller of Nadia Geller Designs Nadia Geller was inspired by the natural light that filled the room with warmth and calmness to create her vision. Not being able to meet the future tenant, each designer had a positive message that they imagined for them and hoped that they could create a sanctuary that would successfully translate it. “This space is meant to be a calming retreat to help them get their feet on the ground and mind focused on a positive future.” The shining star in the room is the

Photographed by Erika Bierman

bed that doubles as a sofa/chaise, custom by her carpenter, Robert Zielbauer, and covered in donated fabric from Rose Tarlow House.

The biggest challenge for the project? With a small room like this, “editing is always the most fun part of the challenge and also only accepting donations that fit into my vision for the space was a bit of a task.” nadiageller.com

Photographed by Erika Bierman

This showstopper chair was donated to the project from WestEnd Sales Gallery (Nadia had originally designed the gallery using it). An end table bridges the gap between the chair and the bed with a colorful Moroccan lamp hanging above.

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The walls are veiled with a metallic grasscloth from Astek. One large sisal rug pulls it all together and invites you to kick off your shoes and relax.

Photographed by Erika Bierman

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The wallpaper, from Astek, was â&#x20AC;&#x153;the absolute wow factor I needed in my design. It completely solidified my color scheme!â&#x20AC;?

Photographed by Erika Bierman

Shirry Dolgin of A.S.D. Interiors Shirry Dolgin understands how arduous the task of finding donated or reclaimed items for any design project may be, but this surely did not prevent her from creating a charming bedroom. With a sophisticated French undertone, Shirry “really took a chance by trying to design with intuition more than anything”. She invested a lot of heart and personality into the space and even gave a piece of her own furniture to the assortment.

“The desk was the first piece of ‘vintage’ furniture I purchased when I started design

school. I went hunting around Los Angeles for a one-of-a-kind desk that would inspire me every time I would sit in front of it. It was the perfect scale, fit the French style and all I needed to do was give it a fresh coat of paint! And voila…my favorite piece in the room!!” The wallpaper, which was the final touch to the mélange, solidified the deep plum color scheme that gives a rich and embracing feeling of home. asdinteriors.com

Photographed by Erika Bierman

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Light tones from the headboard made of salvaged fabric, the hemp rug and the bamboo tray balance the deeperhues of the drapes and ottomans.

Perfume bottles, all of which were donated by women who wanted to contribute something to the space, perch atop a vintage wicker dresser.

Photographed by Erika Bierman

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standard visits

fleabag In a nondescript building next to the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway hides the office of Fleabag in Williamsburg. We got an insiders look at their studio inspirations and latest merchandise while we had a fun little chat over coffee. While lounging in their sitting area, atop a weathered dhurrie rug, the story unfolded. Enter Shira Entis, the fashion designer, and Alex Bell, the lawyer. These two talented gals met their freshman year at Brown during their first week of university. Although from different majors and passions, they had one thing in particular in commonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;their love for thrift shopping in flea markets and vintage shops. The only hiccup during these jaunts of rifling to find hidden treasures? Too many poorly made plastic sacks being passed around and then carelessly abandoned.

They began to imagine if they collaborated, what stylish solution they could make.

Thus inspired their creation of the original Fleabag and inevitably the brand itself.

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standard visits

It originally was just going to be the one design, the â&#x20AC;&#x153;womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of a tool bagâ&#x20AC;? to tote around the necessities on a serious shopping outing, but this novel satchel was only the first spark of their creative electricity together. They launched its design with 100 pieces and sold out in under a month. This was the real deal and this realization motivated the launch of the company as a dedicated handbag studio.

Now the dynamic duo have a full collection available in stores worldwide.

All of these numbered jewels come in short series and have all of their elements handmade locally with diverse materials that change along with the colors and styles of the seasons. We are talking about handsewn beauties, people! Belt closures, buckles, snaps and interior frames (that pop open when you are grabbing for your phone) are extra details that make these goods reminiscent of the oldfashioned craftsmanship found in vintage purses.

Using select artisans to make the finetuned components of each article, they are dedicated in supporting the local fashion scene in NYC. As the Fashion Capitol of the World, the city was also once thriving with fashion production but this switched when companies considered foreign production as the cheaper and easier option.

bring New York back to its roots—when things were made and sold in the same city. On all of their Garment Totes, for example, their special silk screen phrase ‘Support your Local Garment Workers’ promotes the organization Save the Garment Center, and gives 10% with each purchase to them.

Shira and Alex hope to aid in the campaign to

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standard visits

Their working studio holds bolts upon bolts of diverse fabrics, vegetable tanned leathers and an inspiration board boasting fresh ideas for Spring. New styles begin with interesting patterns, army surplus materials and remnant fabrics that they happen to find. They keep a small stock available for presentations and internet orders in the office but most of

their stock is available at trendy boutiques in all major cities. We had the pleasure of drooling over all of the styles and fantasized about owning one of each. Fleabags current collection ranges from a weekender (both a feminine and masculine version), market totes and everyday bags that can transition easily from day to night.

We especially love the Normandy series now available (until they sell out!) made with surplus Italian wool army blankets and their old stock, authentic Pendleton wool blanket series with its vibrant Indian block print. With a variety of bags and pricing, there is surely something for everyone. Each bag holds a story, a life and all are ready to

tote around your fine wares. We even got a peek at what’s coming next year and we promise to keep you updated–it’s fabulous.

Let’s just say a man named Bubba, who owns a shrimp boat, is involved. Yes, indeed! y fleabg.com

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perfectionist

Marcenaria

all hail the pinstripe

JAMES SAAVEDRA The Perfectionist pallete is based upon a classic foundation that puts a modern spin here and there. One quick glance will reveal my penchant for utilizing a spectrum of a couple key colors with a bold pattern such as geometric patterns with an ethnic twist like Ikat or Kuba cloth. I find these kinds of patterns to be more versatile, timeless and sophisticated than the ubiquitous combination of floral, plaid and stripe. Blah.

Rods, the origins of these stripes dates back to the beginnings of society as we know it; La grotte Chauvet-Pont-dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arc, better known as the French Cave Paintings, are the earliest example of the decorative line (does this mean the French truly are superior in all things beautiful?). The pinstripe also has roots in Britain, where some historians say that the first pinstripe suits were worn as bank uniforms with unique striping used to identify employees of different banks.

Which makes me wonder what the pinstripes Try as I might, I have never truly been a stripe on my blazers are saying to the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; banker kind of guy. There is only one stripe that really or French cave artiste? floats my boatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the pinstripe.

Either way, if there is a Perfectionist stripe to be Classic, refined and precise, the pinstripe packs had, I can assure you it will probably take the a giant punch in one tiny line. Though the art form of a pinstripe. of pinstriping is largely associated with Hot

Flor Stone Source

buffet The natural beauty of exotic woods is amplified through the simple application in a stripe pattern. Brilliant detailing encased in a solid swatch of deep brown makes this a statement piece a knockout. flor tiles I love these vibrant tiles from Flor; modern, sprinkled with color and grounded by the charcoal base—who knew stripes could be so exciting and well, stripey?

League of Rebels

the suit What could be more classic than a well tailored suit? One with pinstripes of course. Up the style factor with slim lines and modern cuts.

3form table This may change my thinking on showcasing stripes in the future!

Fun, vibrant and certainly not boring or blah…how could you not help but smile? This piece from the 3Form 100 Percent® series looks great in beach, husk or turf (shown). stone source panel Reclaimed wood from Stone Source. Super chic meets sustainability. This is the way to do reclaimed wood if I ever said so. Gorge.

3Form

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wear the room

warming up for the holiday katherine brown The season is upon us, we are about to gather together to celebrate our gratitude, to celebrate the holidays and to celebrate...your STYLE! Bring a touch of SPICE to the table and have a cocktail while chatting about your greatest conversation starter... your festive attire!

photographed by laure joliet

the transformation to wearable style Lace Print Long Sleeved High Neck Draped Dress by Edun Odalisk Tiger Heels by Coclico Fern Earrings by Alkemie 119

a design affair

thrift master Rashon Carraw

tells us all the steamy de

Rashon Carraway looking debonair as per usual

Rashon loves to use red to add a vibrant pop of color to a room

Custon Bowtie for Rashon made by Brownbelle

way

Rashon Carraway has made a name for himself as the most dapper thrift master on all of the internet. So what does Mr. Goodwill Hunting himself love and loathe? Here are all the juicy details...

etails

best ever thrift find?

My best thrift find for the home was a 52-piece flatware set for $29.99 that retails for $129 for just five pieces. Yeah, it was like WHOA.

Rashon’s amazing vintage Stiffel lamp

your most important accessory?

Personality. Have you ever met a person so dry and boring that you’re waiting for something to fall out of the sky so you could have something interesting to talk about? Yeah, me too.

if you could live in another era, what would it be? Why? Oh definitely the 1940s. It was a time when men actually wore suits...leisurely.

what instantly brightens a room?

A good selection of pillows. Brightness doesn’t always equate to a hue, but more about a feeling you get when you see a space.

favorite item in your home? Why? My vintage Stiffel lamps. I paid $8 for each of them and they have been in every room in my home and have never been in storage. They give such presence to my space.

what color are you obsessed with right now?

I am always obsessed with red. It says energy and vibrancy. It’s also my favorite color.

ultimate treasure?

A case full of vintage cufflinks, tiepins and bowties rashoncarraway.com

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inside

the Artist’s Studio A 60s era apartment building sits in the heart of Brooklyn; inside resides a young industrial designer by the name of Kimberly Lewis and her one roommate—her cat Pasha. Her open and bright apartment (of which she is only the second resident) also doubles as her work studio for Kimberly Lewis Home, and is filled with plenty of vintage eye candy. After going to the Pratt Institute for Industrial Design, she began working on various freelance designs for products and textiles in NYC. In 2009, Kimberly started drafting her own collection of wallpapers for fun and in a short time they gracefully came together to complete the initial series that she debuted with.

If you haven’t heard the good news yet, wallpaper is returning to interiors quite rapidly and making a hearty comeback into the mainstream design scene.

Kimberly Lewis Home offers a small group of organic patterned prints that are made in New York and can be ordered in custom colorways if desired—the most popular being the gray and yellow combo. These papers would jolly up any room and create a whimsical highlight

for any wall. Her present group of four patterns will soon grow to include new styles and colors next spring and one day she believes that she will expand into a more extensive product line using her patterns on other items. She is already carried in two showrooms and her papers can be ordered online.

This young lady is as adorable as she is talented and her place reflects it; it is divided into several small groupings to efficiently utilize the space and easily welcomes groups for small gatherings without feeling crammed. When you enter, the dining area parallels her main workstation, with her fabrics and wallpapers stored in an adjacent cabinet.

The sofa forms a dividing line between the dining and the main living area, which is cozied up to the window with an emphasis on the view of the Brooklyn streets below. Her intimate areas—for sleeping and dressing—are sectioned off by an open shelving unit that holds books and photos. Each item in her apartment is colorful and has a story behind it—most of them involving stoop sales or thrift shops.

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A collector at heart, Kimberly has had an appreciation for old things all of her life.

Case in point: her Nancy Drew library displayed above her blue writing desk that she has kept and added volumes to since she was a girl. That blue desk is actually part of a little blue clan in her place, which includes a dresser, vanity and bedside table. While still in the dorms, Kimberly fell in love with the set at a thrift shop and stored it for two years until she had a place big enough to welcome it all.

It’s very clear that she cherishes all of her décor items, especially her constantly growing collection of vintage fabrics.

Marimekko, well-known for their graphic patterned and brightly colored textiles, is a particular favorite. Instead of keeping all of them rolled up on bolts, she turned a few special pieces into her own works of art; stretching and mounting the material onto canvas gave her the opportunity to see the expanse of the peppy fabrics everyday on her wall, infusing her apartment with a daily influence of cheerful energy. This growing treasury is her main inspiration for creating her graphic wallpapers. Currently she is working independently with Dwell Studio in SoHo and simultaneously focusing on her personal brand. There is grand potential for Kimberly’s line progressing into a full-time gig for her and we can’t wait to see where she takes it! y kimberlylewishome.com

A pair of longhorns pose on top of her beloved blue writing desk. Kimberly found them in the street in Tribeca.

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Kimberly framed her favorite pattern of her wallpaper collection and it sits proudly on her mod credenza. A bright Catstudio pillow of NY ties together all of the colors in her decor. An elephant mask from India hangs on the wall, she purchased it for a 127 quarter at a stoop sale.

More of her vintage blue furniture collection resides in her bedroom area that is nooked behind a grided shelving unit. A blue pintuck duvet from West Elm softens the bed.

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darling & daring

Coco flies through the air with the greatest of ease, next to Banksyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flower Power