The snake skin-effect rug echoes the malachite wallpaper that covers the ceiling of the living area

Designed by Greg Natale, a serene palette unites the imaginative use of patterns in this pied-à-terre

“I think that the power of pattern is something so unsung,” says Greg Natale. “I feel that there is so much to celebrate in patterned, decorative interiors right now.” The Australian interior designer’s passion for patterns is discussed in detail in his latest tome, The Patterned Interior, published by Rizzoli New York, which features an inspiring collection of his firm’s recent projects, including this pied-à-terre in New York.

As the holiday home of a Melbourne-based family, the 1,000sqft apartment may be petite but it makes up for what it lacks in size with a mesmerising mix of colour and pattern. “It was about exploring how this home was afforded more creative freedom—it became a little jewel box in a skyscraper amidst the craziness of New York City,” says the designer.

(Related: Home Tour: A Colourful House That Celebrates Pattern And Art)

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Interior designer  Greg Natale
Above Interior designer Greg Natale

I think that the power of pattern is something so unsung. I feel that there is so much to celebrate in patterned, decorative interiors right now

Previously, the apartment had dated interiors and offered limited headroom. Its exposed concrete bulkheads and beams made the spaces appear cramped and lacking in detail. It did, however, proffer views that extend towards the Central Park; the latter is just two blocks away from the building.

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The snake skin-effect rug echoes the malachite wallpaper that covers the ceiling of the living area
Above The snake skin-effect rug echoes the malachite wallpaper that covers the ceiling of the living area
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A side table by Paul Evans makes a glamorous statement at the entrance
Above A side table by Paul Evans makes a glamorous statement at the entrance

To enhance the sense of space, the designer introduced additional beams and crown mouldings to the ceiling and painted these white. A clever mix of patterns brings a dynamic energy, while a monochromatic palette unites the array of geometric prints. Metallic accents in brass and gold amp up its glamour quotient. A malachite-patterned wallpaper from Cole & Son covers the ceiling in the living area, contributing to the sophisticated balance of textures in the room.

“They have the effect of making the room feel larger when you’re in it rather than smaller,” says Natale. He considers it his favourite space within this project: “I love the living room. There is such balance and drama in play and it’s all executed with such economy in space.”

(Related: Mix Prints Like A Pro: 4 Ways To Cop This Home’s Daring Pattern Pairings)

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The dining room features vintage brass chairs, a Gaetano Sciolari light, a geometric rug and abstract paintings by Scott Petrie
Above The dining room features vintage brass chairs, a Gaetano Sciolari light, a geometric rug and abstract paintings by Scott Petrie
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The floors feature black-stained oak parquetry, which takes on dramatically different looks according to the light
Above The floors feature black-stained oak parquetry, which takes on dramatically different looks according to the light

To complement the pattern-centric interior, Natale selected furniture that pays tribute to his diverse creative influences: “New York is a city of icons and I find it fitting that this apartment incorporates pieces from some of my favourite designers.” These included a snakeskin-effect rug designed by Diane von Furstenberg, a blue sofa by Kelly Wearstler, a dining table by Jonathan Adler, as well as a side table by Paul Evans.

New York is a city of icons and I find it fitting that this apartment incorporates pieces from some of my favourite designers

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A close-up of the carrara marble coffee table at the living area
Above A close-up of the carrara marble coffee table at the living area
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A blue  rug enlivens the minimalist kitchen
Above A blue rug enlivens the minimalist kitchen

The art selection is as curated: featured on the walls are a mix of photographic prints and vintage finds, which include an Op-Art print by German artist Jurgen Peters at the entry hall and a colourful diptych by Australian artist Scott Petrie at the dining room.

In the bedrooms, a tactile and snug combination of fabric, pattern and art simultaneously add visual interest and differentiates each room from the other. “Every room and every space offers precious pieces that surprise and delight,” quips the designer.

Every room and every space offers precious pieces that surprise and delight

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Maroon accents on the rug add a pleasing contrast to the serene blues in the master bedroom
Above Maroon accents on the rug add a pleasing contrast to the serene blues in the master bedroom
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A sculptural artwork is the focal point of the children’s bedroom
Above A sculptural artwork is the focal point of the children’s bedroom

Much to Natale’s delight, the Australian homeowners adore the apartment so much that they have taken to spending more time in the Big Apple. “Since the home’s completion I have noticed that they are spending almost as much time in New York as in Melbourne—I take that as a sign of a happy customer!”


This story was adapted from Singapore Tatler Homes Feb-Mar 2019

Credits

Photography  

Anson Smart, courtesy of Rizzoli New York

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