Elegant and steeped in classicism, yet in a thoroughly contemporary way, Drake/Anderson Principal Caleb Anderson’s apartment is designed with his distinctive signature.
Undertaking a complete renovation in a 1926 building, Caleb honored the original essence of the elegant structure, while updating completely. The entry foyer is lined in taupe lacquered wood panels and furnished with a swooping console topped by a Rococo mirror, announcing the aesthetic dialogue of contrast that continues throughout. In the living room a sweeping sofa, unique double arc cocktail table and a pair of modern tub chairs soften the strict architecture and are joined by antique elements of similar sensual form. The palette of eggshell, ivory and platinum is accented by clear reds and blues.
The symmetry of the room is anchored by the marble fireplace mantel, placed against a chimney breast of fluted plaster. The elegant, contemporary oval mirror is trimmed in brass and flanked by foliate antique sconces, dripping with cut crystal drops. Underfoot, a custom rug’s raised tufts echo the curves.
The second bedroom is a multi-functional space, anchored by a daybed upholstered in rich olive for guests, and wrapped with inset walnut bookcases as library. A 19th century desk, leather topped and accented with gilt bronze mounts, is the perfect home office. The citrine moldings frame custom hand-painted wallcovering, and the room is crowned with a gold leafed planetary chandelier.
The dining room is small, but packs big punch. Lacquered in red, including the ceiling, this jewel box has walls of three types of mirror, installed in a cubist pattern. The table, of dramatically veined marble, is flanked by a red velvet banquette and 1970s chairs covered in the same fabric. The dazzling chandelier is reflected to infinity, and amplifies the sparkle and glamour in this windowless room.
The kitchen is an updated ode to the 1920s. Ebonized cabinetry accented with hammered brass pulls and a black stove that is truly a machine for cooking, are atop a red glass mosaic floor—tying into the color of the adjacent dining room. The set of plates painted with portraits and the brass mobile add whimsy and joy.
The main bedroom is a sanctuary, the walls upholstered in deep inky blue moiré and suede cloth, framed by palest grey moldings of sweeping form. A site-specific commissioned installation of porcelain discs accented with gold draws the eye into the room. The bedside lamps are 19th century gilt bronze and crystal girandoles, echoing lighting in the living room and dining rooms.
Shagreen, shearling and boucle are texturally rich neutrals that brighten the room. The ensuite bath is a lavish affair, clad in grey and blue marble with the most sensual veining, balanced by pure white stone.