Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Cullman & Kravis

I could have spent all day in the dining room by Cullman & Kravis at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House and that was the point.  The designers behind this chic room told me that if someone owned this big townhouse, they would probably entertain a lot.  That prompted them to design a dining room that guests would never want to leave.  Clearrly it worked on me!  They are calling the room "Dinner at Eight" and it honors eight great chefs.  They each have their own place at the table and books and photos on the shelves.  It was another room that revealed itself in layers and little surprises.  What looked like a pagoda in the window was actually a stack of copper pots while the pops of turquoise add life to the neutral color palette.  I absolutely loved the large scale Candida Hofer photograph above the buffet and the Joel Meyerowitz above the fireplace as well as the artwork sprinkled throughout.  It's definitely a room that says bon appétit!

The very chic Tracy Pruzan and Elissa Cullman of Cullman & Kravis.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic 

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Rod Winterrowd

I found so many favorite rooms at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House this year and one is actually not even really a room.  Interior designer Rod Winterrowd was assigned the first and second floor stair landings and stairwell.  It is a testament to his skill that he created a space that is warm and inviting yet really interesting.  Stairwells themselves can be an overlooked decorating opportunity and Rod created five sections with molding that divide the space for artwork.  He said he specifically created five so there would be a center focal point for the wonderful mix of art and photography.  What I love is that you could easily replicate this look at home with some applied moldings and paint for probably not a lot of money.  You could even pick up inexpensive frames and make your own artwork or frame your own photos.  I told you that show houses offer a myriad of design inspiration!

The dapper designer Rod Winterrowd.

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Aman & Carson

One of my other favorite rooms at this year's Kips Bay Decorator Show House was the Art Collector's Room by Aman & Carson.  It is the type of room that is on first glance beautiful but really reveals itself over time.  I found myself noticing more and more details the longer I spent looking around.  The designers website describes their style as updated, classic, American interior design and that could also describe their room.   When I asked them about their inspiration, they told me that is was a project they are currently working on for a client.  The room was a way to show her what was possible in her space and I joked that it was much better than any rendering.  They use similar tricks as a few other designers with the high gloss paint and mirrors behind the bookshelves which expand the room.  The adjoining powder room was an opportunity to create a little fantasy space with their friend and designer Maggie Norris.  Enjoy!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Sherrill Canet

The New York Times featured many of the rooms from the Kips Bay Decorator Show House but did not include many of my favorites. I thought that this blue and beige room from Sherrill Canet was a real showstopper.  The furniture plan was perfect for the size of the room and would be especially great for entertaining.  The fabulous blue walls were painted with Benjamin Moore Blue Suede Shoes and then stripes were created with an application of clear lacquer.  This is a treatment that you could easily replicate at home.  Another trick that a lot of the designers used this year was to paint, lacquer or wallpaper the ceiling in a metallic or high gloss finish.  The ceilings are low in this townhouse and it reflects the light and makes them appear taller.  I also absolutely love the flame stitch patten rug which is part of the new Sherrill Canet line for Stark Carpet.  The pattern would also hide a multitude of sins like spilling a cocktail which is what I think of when I look at this room.   Cheers!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic

Kips Bay Decorator Show House 2010: Jennifer Post

I started my tour of this year's Kips Bay Decorator Show House at the top with the Penthouse designed by Jennifer Post and worked my way down.  After I stopped huffing and puffing, I was able to admire the three spaces (yoga room, television room, and terrace) that encompass the entire sixth floor.  By the way, there is an elevator which should be working during the regular tours.  Jennifer was not on hand for my tour but according to the press materials she is known for her "exploration of minimalism within a black and white palette.  Infused with artful mystery and visually calming vignettes, Post's designs possess the ability to transform from a living space throughout the day, into a glamorous entertainment space at night." 

I have to admit that I don't normally like minimal design or a lack of color but I really liked this space.  There were a lot of tones and textures in the television area which made it warm and cozy.  I could see the penthouse floor being a wonderful place to workout and also relax.  I was also thinking that if you created a bedroom area instead of the yoga studio, you could create a fabulous master bedroom suite or separate apartment for an older child living with their parents.  There was a little kitchenette by the terrace which means you wouldn't always have to run down to the first floor a drink.

The best thing about show houses is that the style of the rooms doesn't have to reflect your own aesthetic for you to be able to appreciate them.  I always come away with new resources and inspiring ideas for future projects and I hope you do too!

Photos by Heather Clawson for Habitually Chic