Design Journey #16 - New York City interior dreams
How to enter the NYC interior heaven
Happy Monday to all of you! I hope you had an amazing weekend.
For me, it was time to leave Munich and escape to Austria. If you're looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy nature, Austrian traditions, and excellent service, I highly recommend this place.
But now, onto the actual topic: a little over two years ago, I visited a friend in Montreal, and to make the most of the trip, we spent five days in NYC before heading to Toronto. It was my second time in the city, the first being my school exchange in 2008. Obviously, not only had my interests changed over the years, but so had the city itself. Interior design plays a crucial role in inspiring me when I travel, so below you’ll find all my highlights - plus a few spots that have made it on my want-to-go list for next time.
This screenshot of my Google Maps is proof of just how overwhelming NYC can be, with so many incredible places to discover.
I’d say my favorite neighborhoods were Chinatown, Greenwich Village, Tribeca, Williamsburg, and Brooklyn. I love how each district has its own vibe, almost like little cities within one big city. Now, let’s dive into some of my interior highlights:
GALLERIES
Friedman Benda
I mentioned this space already last time for collectible design, it’s definitely an institution. Their gallery is also showing an exhibition with Faye Toogood at the moment.
Studio TwentySeven
Studio TwentySeven gallery curates a sharp mix of vintage and contemporary pieces with a strong architectural feel. Their selection is a lot about sculptural forms and rich materials.
INTERIOR STORES & SHOWROOMS
Coming Soon
“Coming Soon” is such a fun store in a great area (one of my favs), it’s perfect to stroll around from one small shop to another and make a lunch or coffee break at Dimes.
The shop is full of colorful treasures and there’s so much to discover that it has somehow kind of a gallery character.
The Somerset House
Only open to the public on Fridays, it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re into Collectible Furniture. Somerset House, founded by Alan Eckstein, is a mix of gallery, studio, and carefully curated retail space. Blending various influences, it’s all about timeless design with an unexpected edge.
Quarters
SO high on my wishlist to go, since it didn’t exist during my last visit. It’s run by the founders of In common with - it’s a concept store and also a gathering space as it includes a café/wine bar. Two levels filled with appreciation for community, craftmanship and great design. Just looking at the photos already melts my heart.
Apparatus Showroom
A showroom I first came across on Instagram, and it looks absolutely stunning. I have to see it next time. Many interior brands could take notes on how to create such an outstanding atmosphere.
Orior
I have to admit, I didn’t know this brand until I randomly walked by in New York, and I instantly liked it. Orior has a strong focus on marble in special colors and shapes, plus they turn leftover pieces into beautiful decorative objects. Everything is handcrafted in their family-run workshop in Ireland, making it definitely worth a visit!
FORM Atelier
FORM Atelier is all about curating pieces that feel timeless but totally relevant today. Founded by Avril Nolan and Quy Nguyen (who is also the Style Director of Ralph Lauren Home), their sharp eye for design comes from years in fashion, editorial, and luxury interiors. A space where art, objects, and furniture connect in an effortless way.
Horseman Antiques
While strolling through Brooklyn after eating probably the best bagel I’ve ever had in my life (at Shelsky's Of Brooklyn Appetizing and Delicatessen) we came across Horseman Antiques. Seriously I just wished I could furnish an apartment in New York. I found such a dreamy sofa for a reasonable price that we even considered to ship it over to Germany. A place where you can discover true treasures.
Fashion Stores with great interior
Additionally, there are also some fashion stores I considered as quite inspirational from the interior design or furniture they showcased - to just name a few:
AESTHETIC BREAKS
In case you’re also craving aesthetic breaks for coffee or wine, go check out Gem Wine, Rhythm zero (2nd location in Greenpoint) and With others.
And for everyone who really feels like needing a SPA moment after the long flight or having sore feet from walking so much, Spencers SPA looks incredible beautiful!
For your daily dose of New York vibes, these are the people to follow:
Madelynn Hudson / Kim Mupangilai / Celina Prentiss
I hope these highlights inspire your next trip - there’s truly no place like it!
Got any other interior highlights in NYC? Feel free to add them in the comments! :)
Oooh what do you have bookmarked in Queens? Would hate to think gems have been flying under my radar.