NYC for Design Lovers
Our California interior designers recently returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City where we packed in as much design, furniture and art inspiration as possible! As a discerning interior designer, it can be difficult to find luxury hotels that have a boutique feel and interesting interiors. Fortunately, I discovered the newly reimagined Hotel Chelsea for this trip, and couldn’t be happier with the accommodations. After doing a little research, I became intrigued by the rich history of this hotel.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, the Hotel Chelsea has long been an iconic landmark with a rich history dating back to 1883. Originally built as a cooperative apartment, the hotel quickly evolved into a haven for artists, musicians, and writers, playing a pivotal role in the cultural fabric of New York City. After a period of closure and renovations, the Hotel Chelsea has recently reopened its doors, unveiling a new incarnation as a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends its storied past with modern elegance.
The Hotel Chelsea’s early years were marked by a bohemian spirit that attracted an eclectic mix of creative minds. Renowned figures such as Mark Twain, Tennessee Williams, and Andy Warhol called the hotel home, fostering an environment where artistic expression thrived. The walls of the hotel tell stories of creativity, rebellion, and innovation, with each room bearing witness to the transformative moments that unfolded within its confines. Over the decades, the Hotel Chelsea continued to serve as a cultural hub, hosting musicians like Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin and Patti Smith.
In recent years, the Hotel Chelsea underwent a comprehensive renovation, carefully preserving its historic charm while introducing modern amenities and luxurious touches. The result is a seamless blend of the old and the new, where vintage details coexist with bespoke furnishings, curated artwork and state-of-the-art comforts. I appreciated the mix of luxurious fabrics, hand knotted rugs and vintage furniture and lighting, and enjoyed the luxe Italian bedding and towels and the nightly turndown service.
After settling into our hotel we headed out sourcing for our San Francisco interior design clients, with the first stop at the New York Design Center at 200 Lex, specifically one of our favorite lighting designers John Pomp. Their new showroom serves as a dynamic space for clients to engage with the studio on bespoke contemporary lighting and custom furniture.
The showroom itself is more than just a space to display creations; it’s a sanctuary where every detail has been carefully considered. Upon entering, guests are greeted by an atmosphere that seamlessly blends sophistication with warmth. The carefully curated layout allows visitors to explore the studio’s diverse portfolio, from stunning chandeliers to bespoke furniture, each piece a reflection of John Pomp’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. John Pomp Studios has a rich history of collaborating with architects, designers, and clients to bring unique visions to life. The new NYC space invites creative minds to explore possibilities, fostering a collaborative spirit that has been central to the studio’s success.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, the PACE Gallery stands as a venerable institution in the realm of contemporary art. Established in 1960 by Arne Glimcher, PACE has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the art world, showcasing a diverse array of groundbreaking exhibitions that span a multitude of mediums. Its New York City location, strategically positioned in the renowned Chelsea Arts District, places PACE at the epicenter of the city’s artistic energy. The gallery’s expansive space, characterized by its clean lines and versatile layout, provides a blank canvas for the dynamic and ever-evolving roster of artists it represents. We were fortunate to catch the Julian Schnabel and Paulo Monteiro exhibits during our visit (shown above).
Zou Zou’s Restaurant in New York City stands as a culinary haven that melds exquisite flavors with a vibrant ambiance. Established in 2017 by the visionary chef, Isabella Morales, Zou Zou’s quickly gained acclaim for its innovative take on Mediterranean fusion cuisine, combining classic culinary techniques with contemporary twists.
Inspired by the rich color palettes and textures of the Eastern Mediterranean basin, the main dining room at Zou Zou’s is framed out by a large, lattice pattern coffered ceiling, hovering above a rich red dining room, all set within an architecture of large plaster arches. An arched teal bar and an open fire kitchen act as bookends to the room, celebrating the production of Middle Eastern cuisine. Different layers of hand cast teal tiles pave the main space, while large custom chandeliers create an intimate feel. Huge kudos to AvroKO for their impeccable design of this space!
Beyond its reputation for exhibiting cutting-edge contemporary artworks, Dobrinka Salzman Gallery has become a distinguished destination for enthusiasts of collectible mid-century modern furniture. Dobrinka’s discerning eye for design has led to the curation of a remarkable collection, blending the sophistication of mid-century aesthetics with a contemporary edge. I was delighted to see her collection of every version of Jean Prouvé’s Standard chair arranged in order of production, along with rare Jens Risom armchairs and Serge Mouille light fixtures.