Recently, there have been many wonderful blogs featuring the extraordinary work of designer Howard Slatkin but I couldn’t resist writing my own post. I just finished reading his new book “Fifth Avenue Style” and thoroughly enjoyed reading every single page. I felt that his approach to writing the book was incredibly unique and quite entertaining to read as he takes us on a detailed tour through his entire apartment from the magical entry hall all the way to the candle room. Yes, a candle room! Someday I will have to have one!
But one of the many things I enjoyed most about the book was that Slatkin shared with us the creative journey he took for each room. Including the images and sketches that inspired him. After all this is what the design process is all about. Seeking inspiration and distilling it through our own thoughts and overall vision. I was also very appreciative of his generosity in recognizing and noting the amazing team of talented artisans that helped make his visions a reality. It is the thing that I love most about being an interior designer. The opportunity to work with so many creative and talented people. We couldn’t do what we do without them.
So I thought I would highlight just a few of the exquisite details that inspired me the most. From lighting and wall treatments, to embroidery and architectural details. All the things I am obsessed with as well. The apartment is truly a triumph of exuberance, luxury and beauty.
You can also follow Howard Slatkin’s pinterest board, which is full of inspiring images as well. And be sure to pick up a copy of “Fifth Avenue Style”. It will surely inspire you.
Lighting:
Stepping off the elevator and into Slatkin’s entry vestibule, one is immediately transported into a Chinese inspired jewelry box filled with exquisite objet and furniture, complemented by magical and subtle lighting. Note the miniature picture lights highlighting a collection of Blanc de Chine figures mounted on gilt brackets.
The Blanc de Chine figures reflected in a Venetian mirror with a French gilt console underneath. Scented votives and candles add to the atmosphere of the vestibule.
A rare Russian tole lantern is illuminated with miniature bulbs normally used for dollhouses. They truly give the effect of candlelight without the mess of dripping candle wax.
In Slatkin’s dining room, books are illuminated with from below with concealed lights, which are diffused by a rose tinted gel.
Wall Treatments:
Patterned leather walls in the Library.
In the guest bedroom Slatkin ingeniously was able to use the entire length of the antique hand painted Chinoiserie wallpaper panels by continuing them on a cove ceiling.
Sumptuously patterned fabrics line the walls in the screening room.
Embroidery:
Anybody who knows me well, knows that I am obsessed with embroidery. It is truly an art form in itself, which is expressed throughout the apartment.
The upholstery fabric on the French Louis XVI canape in the gallery is embroidered with extraordinary delicacy and refinement. Even the silk lampshade on the Maison Meilleur swing arm lamp is embroidered with tiny flowers.
The Russian empire chair and curtains with embroidery by Jean Francois Lesage. The true master of embroidery in my humble opinion.
Architectural Details:
Throughout the apartment, walls, ceilings, windows and doors are embellished with an astonishing array of hand carved and cast moldings of Slatkin’s design.
Photography by Tria Giovan
Publisher: Vendome Press- New York