Now and then a home comes along that commands the attention of an audience, imparting a rich narrative from space to space. In the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side lies a vibrant pied-à-terre that demands just that. The storied home weaves together the disparate threads of its owners’ eclectic tastes into a tapestry of diverse interests and extensive travels. The work of renowned Tim Button of Stedila Design, this project shows off his adept ability to harmonize traditional and contemporary elements as he transforms rooms into unique plotlines.
The home belongs to a dynamic couple – devotees of film and avid art collectors, and long-standing clients of Button. Their affinity for paying homage to the golden era of film and media, and their passion for art, travel souvenirs, family heirlooms and international film and TV memorabilia, takes center stage and is further personified throughout each living space, thoughtfully orchestrated by Button himself. Dividing their time between South Florida, the North Shore of Massachusetts, New York and Rome, the couple’s abode reflects their wanderlust lifestyle.
The crescendo moment of this eclectic home is presented in the form of a commissioned wall sculpture mirror by acclaimed artist Beth Katleman, shown above the mantel. This unique piece not only set the tone for the entire apartment – speaking eloquently to both romantic whimsy and avant-garde theatrics – but also played a pivotal role in the acquisition of the home in the first place. Button states, “They committed to this piece before they even bought the apartment, then pulled the trigger on the purchase.”
Button’s design approach for this project exudes a playful nostalgia, akin to staging environments reminiscent of period movie sets. Embracing a 1920s and ’30s salon vibe, the pied- à-terre showcases over 140 carefully curated pieces of art, each with its own unique identity. From quirky decorative objects to a black-and-white bedroom dedicated to the display of the owner’s photography, every inch of this home is a campaign in support of the couple’s artistic expression – artfully assembled by Button.
Arguably the most eye-catching aspect of this project is the sophisticated color palette. Button shares, “We needed a strong color presence on which to thread the tapestry of artwork, so we started with Arsenic Green by Farrow & Ball.” Setting the palette pace, Button explains, “This deliberate color selection brings depth and character to the home, creating a rich visual experience that complements the diverse collection of art and memorabilia.”
The entryway, adorned with Schumacher’s Queen’s Flight wallpaper panel set in Green, created in collaboration with artist Anne Lemanski, welcomes visitors into a gallery-like space. Though the wallpaper is the only art to speak of in the space, the design cleverly defines the area, turning what was once a stark white space into a drama-filled entrance brimming with character and anticipation for the rooms that follow.
Working with return clients, especially those with a history dating back to 1989, offers a unique perspective into the evolution of personal tastes and preferences. Button acknowledges the importance of trust throughout the design process, stating, “You have to take leaps of faith and believe in the process because you’ve seen it before, and they really did.” The collaborative spirit between the homeowners and Button is evident from room to room. Providing art direction and distinct preferences, Button reflects on the client collaboration, noting, “They were very involved – there was a lot of careful translation of their art direction into characterful rooms from a bygone era that resonate with today.” Upon closer study into the narrative of this Manhattan home, it becomes clear that Button’s design transcends mere aesthetics – it’s a conduit for interior storytelling. The Upper East Side residence stands as a vibrant canvas where Button’s design narrative unfolds, by way of art, furniture, and color, to create a home that not only reflects the owners’ diverse tastes but also speaks a captivating dialogue of design and personal expression.
Photography by Antoine Bootz.
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