Design Walk 2012: Lillian August

ASID presented Design Walk 2012, a selection of tours, talks, and showroom debuts in three neighborhoods over three days. On day 1, I headed to the Lillian August store on 21st street to hear creative director Skye Kirby Westcott talk about their new designer services. While in the store, I had to snap a few photos of some of my favorite vignettes. I love the mix of neutral glamorous pieces with accessories in vibrant, intense tones. Even if you are not looking for furniture, the store is loaded with great gifts (for yourself or loved ones!) 12 West 20th Street.

Haven’s Kitchen: Classy Cooking School

On a break from Design Walk, we headed over to Haven’s Kitchen (as suggested by Skye Kirby Westcott). What a treat! The space houses a coffee shop/specialty food shop in front, with spaces for events, and cooking classes in back and upstairs. Adorably staged, and consciously founded, the classes feature locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients. Guest chefs also show off their talents at the Supper Club. Stop in for cup of joe, some pretty preserves, or kitchen gadgets and see if any of the classes appeal to you. I bought some coffee beans while there, and have been enjoying them every day since. 109 West 17th Street.

Unique Party Space NYC: 632 on Hudson

Day 3 of Design Walk 2012 focused on the west village, which included a tour of 632 on Hudson, a unique property available for photo shoots and all sorts of parties. This space is absolutely amazing, with a variety of opportunities to throw a memorable event. There are 5 levels to choose from, starting from a speakeasy below ground, a street-level gallery with doors that open onto Hudson Street, and an astonishing three floors above, boasting a 40-foot atrium leading to a wraparound roof deck. What’s exceptional about the space is that the facade is totally unassuming. The surprise hits on level 3, and the excitement builds as you tour each room, taking in the fanciful design—bohemian, cluttered—in themes of Indian, Asian, French, Deco—full of antiques acquired from a lifetime of travels. Bathrooms feature old-style tubs with authentic vintage hardware and accessories. See more details on the history (it was a sausage factory) on the website. I took tons of photos, which do not totally tell the story, it must be seen in person to fully appreciate. See the photos at this link.