The Art Retreat
Author:Abigail StoneLaura Roberts Interiors curates a space where a client can be inspired while finding refuge
A work from Takashi Murakami and a dramatic two-story custom chandelier set a dramatic tone in the entryway
The client craved a highly stylized and creative space that would highlight his many artistic and entrepreneurial ventures. In hopes of achieving this, he turned to Laura Roberts Interiors. A previous life as a set decorator and a production designer had underlined principal Laura Roberts’ ability to tell a story using the language of design. “We met through a referral and immediately clicked on a shared artistic vision for the home and the desire to push boundaries in terms of style and creativity,” Roberts shares.
Edra’s sinuous, oversized “On The Rocks” sofa sits on a bamboo silk rug, handmade in India, found at Exquisite rugs
“The client wanted the home to serve not just as his primary residence but as the showcase for his life as a DJ and as a backdrop for the photoshoots for his fashion line,” Roberts shares. The trick was to balance his desire for a comfortable, calming space with one that was also a visually arresting setting for his frequent and expansive entertaining.
Sonneman’s “Suspenders” chandelier illuminates a quartet of Calligaris’ Even Plus” barstools in the kitchen
The client himself was Roberts’ muse; her inspiration for the home’s design sprung from his extensive, creative interests and his artistic and peripatetic lifestyle. “He had an intriguing collection. of art and antiques that he’d collected on his extensive travels, especially those he discovered on this adventures in Asia, as well as many pieces created his graffiti artist friends that we were eager to include,” she notes.
Winfield’s Thybony walls, sourced through Kravet, Flos’ “Arrangements” pendant and an area rug from Ben Soleimani “Cirra” rug in Twilight unite a custom modular sofa that can be reimagined in a myriad of configurations
Underlying the drama of this home is a playfulness and a flexibility that reflects the client’s energy. Note the entryway, where zen white walls punctuate the theatricality of a two—story custom chandelier and a large and compelling work by Takashi Murakami. Paired with cool gray in tones that span from light to dark, the space is able to morph from private to public to commercial at a moment’s notice.
Flos’ Noctamble pendant and a bed discovered at Restoration Hardware play supporting roles to the primary’s bedroom’s dazzling neon
That’s confirmed by a quick glance at the Great Room where Edra’s oversized and sinuous double-sided “On The Rocks” sofa invites a crowd. It’s supported by a custom modular sofa in the Lounge that can be easily reconfigured as needed. Pushed together it becomes a gigantic daybed, perfect for viewing parties that showcase the room’s large-scale projector. Broken up and pulled against the wall, it highlights dance parties that showcase the client’s DJ skills. A smaller lounge, on the second floor landing, offers a gathering spot for tête-à-têtes and intimate conversations, confirmed by its custom chaise, hide area rug and Missoni pillows. In the open plan kitchen, Calligaris’ “Even Plus” barstool and be pulled up to the countertop, illuminated by Sonneman’s “Suspenders” chandelier, or tucked away underneath during the evenings it doubles as a bar.
Photographs by Paul Barnaby
The final result, which Roberts characterizes as “organic modern”, incorporates these pieces within a sleek, streamlined setting. “The client couldn’t be happier,” says Roberts. “He considers it the perfect reflection of his spirt and an extension of his artistic personality.”