Our clients wanted a sophisticated pied-a-terre for weekends trips into the city from their main residence. After purchasing the penthouse unit located in arguably the best location in the city, we set about removing as many walls as possible. The goal was to open the home to the view and create a graceful 1940’s high style residence for entertaining. We chose vintage furniture throughout except for upholstered items understanding todays furniture is better scaled for comfort. The main room features a book matched granite fireplace column done in classic skyscraper fashion, we let the billion-year-old rock do some showing off, no additional art needed. Photos by Ben Benschneider.

Guarding the stone columns beneath lighted mohair valances, Italian lacquer and parcel guilt antique mirrors float on black silk morie walls. A steel framework is hidden by a tank watch style center band that supports the crystal ring chandelier; below, a pair of sensuous citrus green sofas and irresistible trapunto stitched back pillows. The skyscraper language continues with the dining columns which are capped at every floor by polished stainless plates, radiused marquetry falling leaf fillets run floor to ceiling.

Since the home would be used primarily for weekend entertaining, a backdrop mural from Juarez Machado’s “le fete continue” adorns the main dining wall. The festive couple peer down upon a Macassar wood sideboard and dining table, seating for eight in 50’s inspired chairs of mohair with glass bead trims plunging down the center V backs.

The owners wanted choices presented for each of the major art locations starting with the foyer which offers a sight centered smoke mirrored wall. We chose a contemporary ikebana drawing by Dale Chihuly for the initial overall impression.

At the far end of the hall hangs a float drawing also by Chihuly. Nestled between the Entry Foyer and Dining Room is a tall open art niche well lit to display a Bijan Bahar multi-faceted and optically amazing transparent sculpture.

A nude by Paul DeSomma is shown here in the powder room.

Apart from kitchen and bath tile floors the entire home has charcoal wool carpet with a faint cocoa strie pattern, the use of carpet throughout creates a calm and dramatic background for carefully chosen furniture and art.