The allure of prewar architecture and the creative vision of a textile designer come together in this captivating story. Let's delve into the world of Sarah Lederman and her forever home on the Upper West Side.
The Prewar Charm
Emery Roth, the architect behind iconic Upper West Side buildings, has left an indelible mark on the neighborhood's streetscapes. These coveted residences, with their twin and three-tower structures, are a rare find, and their co-op boards are notoriously selective. It's a testament to Sarah's determination that she secured a spot in one of these prestigious buildings, creating a magical family bubble with her brother and his family on the same street.
A Duplex Dream
Sarah's duplex, an original Emery Roth layout, is a testament to thoughtful design. The public and private spaces are thoughtfully separated, creating a logical flow. Limewashed walls and custom millwork set the tone, providing a blank canvas for Sarah's creative vision.
A Quick Transformation
Contrary to the typical lengthy design projects, Sarah's home transformation was relatively swift. In just six months, she wallpapered, painted, and added new carpeting, creating a stunning interior. Her approach, as an interior designer, was to enhance rather than gut the space, resulting in an impressive end product.
The Launch of Three Fates
Amidst decorating her new home, Sarah also launched her wallpaper and textile line, Three Fates. Inspired by her love for travel and historic places like Bhutan, Morocco, Japan, and Peru, Sarah captured the essence of these destinations in her designs. She also drew inspiration from architectural elements in New York City, creating earthy color palettes with names like Sirocco, evoking vast natural landscapes.
Handcrafted Details
Sarah's designs were initially hand watercolored by an artist, adding a unique touch to the digitally printed textiles and wallpapers. The result is a collection that feels organic and natural, even when digitally printed. One design, Amphora, draws inspiration from the colors of Greek amphoras, showcasing Sarah's attention to detail.
A Testing Ground for Three Fates
Sarah's home became a testing ground for her new textiles. Nearly all the pillows and upholstered chairs feature Three Fates fabrics, seamlessly integrating into her imaginative interiors. The powder room's green wallpaper, also designed by Sarah, adds a pop of color and showcases the versatility of her collection.
The Final Touches
The Three Fates patterns blend beautifully with Sarah's existing decor. An Art Deco rug, an Egyptian tapestry, and custom ceramic lamps with hand-painted shades create a unique and personal space. Sarah's friends, upon visiting, are surprised to learn that Three Fates is a new venture, as the patterns seamlessly fit into her established aesthetic.
Deeper Analysis
Sarah's story highlights the importance of personal connections to our surroundings. Her decision to live close to her family and the logical layout of her duplex create a sense of community and comfort. Additionally, her ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources, from ancient civilizations to New York City architecture, showcases a unique creative vision.
Conclusion
Sarah Lederman's Upper West Side home is a testament to her talent as an interior designer and her ability to create a personal sanctuary. Her launch of Three Fates adds a layer of depth to her story, showcasing her passion for travel and her eye for detail. It's a reminder that our homes can be a reflection of our journeys and a canvas for our creative expression.
