I have always been intrigued by the homes of fashion designers. It was Architectural Digest (before I started my architectural education) where I learned to appreciate interiors.

 

The chic eclecticism of Saint Laurent's residence (where I discovered Jean Michel Frank), and Angelo Donghia’s minimalism for Ralph Lauren's New York apartment, became chapters in my interiors Bible.

 

But it was Coco Chanel's decor that taught me the importance of symbols, the meaning of objects, and about one's own life as influence in creating a personal home.

 

Recently, I had the opportunity, as a guest of Chanel Joaillerie, to spend some time exploring her preserved apartment rooms. This quasi-religious experience gave me the inspiration for this lobby design.

 

Her apartment and its treasures, in contrast to the simple, white-painted facade of her boutique, can be compared to her signature perfume: A minimal, Mondrian-esque box that contains a rich and precious scent. 

 

The apartment’s design elements include Coromandel screens, Louis XV furniture, crystal, her leather-bound books, mirrors, beige carpets, chinoiserie, whimsical animals, and religious icons; these were some of her many symbols – her internal “lions” (she was, after all, a Leo).

 

It is this particular story that connects very well with my interests: Creating for my clients personal, meaningful interiors that are comfortable, both visually and physically.

 

Chanel's apartment has given me a fountainhead of inspiration. I hope  you might find some of your own while experiencing this lobby and during your visit to the showrooms of The Washington Design Center – luxury is knowledge.

 

Manhattan Sofa 

Trellis Appliqué accent pillows

Lounge Bergere chairs, #6385

Charles-Paris desk lamp

Puso mirror by Robert Kuo for McGuire 

 

HL2332 floor lamp by T.H. Robsjohn Gibbings, Hinson

 

Cavallini cowhide rug in Vanilla, C27

 

Palm Torchière floor light 

Carte Blanche CB-350 plaster lamp, Carole Gratale

Gray paint: Elephant’s Breath

White paint: All White 

Black paint: Pitch Black

Brown paint: Mahogany 

 

Nuage side mirrored tables, Christian Liaigre

Hardwood side lounge chair, Caperton Collection

Harcourt desk chair, Dennis & Leen

Black Side two-tier table: Louis XVI nightstand, Rose Tarlow 

Ottoman: Augusta by Formations; fabric, Cotton Velvet #1601 by Great Plains; trim tape, Bordo Ricamato by Jane Shelton 

Chinoiserie side table: Scallop tray table, Dennis & Leen

Black and white art pieces: Abstract Compositions by Victor Skrebneski

 

Fornasetti “Ex Libris” wallpaper, Cole & Son 

 

Crillon Chandelier

Sevigne Screen

Marchand desk, Nancy Corzine

 

Courtesy GoodWood Antiques, Washington DC

 

“Homage a Dali y Coco” 

By Kenneth Widener

 

 

Nestor Santa Cruz Decoration

202.277.6611