Oscar-Worthy Style

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The only thing missing is the red carpet in this chic high-rise condominium in the Central West End’s prestigious Park East Tower. With sweeping penthouse views of the cityscape and Forest Park’s natural splendor, this sophisticated space exudes classical elegance with a dash of vintage Hollywood and a sprinkling of savoir faire.

An avid collector of contemporary and pop art, as well as modern and mid-century furniture, the homeowner wanted a retreat that was tranquil yet inspiring – a soft-hued backdrop to showcase his passion for artistic excellence.

He enlisted the talents of interior designer Steve Toedebusch of Frank Patton Interiors as the first step in achieving the home of his dreams.

Starting from a blank canvas, Steve began to bring his client’s vision of a livable space – that was high on style – to life. “This homeowner desired a more traditional East Coast look that would set the stage for his prized artwork,” says Steve, “so we imbued the space with classic architectural details purposefully designed to enhance and not distract from each unique art piece. We also opened up the floor plan in the main living area to take full advantage of the magnificent views from the adjoining terrace. Once you take out walls, though, you have to define spaces, which we achieved by building columns and adding crown molding.”

The final result was a cosmopolitan condo befitting a spot on Fifth Avenue in New York City. Adorned in rich shades of cream, gold and brown, Steve chose a luscious Prussian blue as his accent. “Originally, I had wanted to do a very monochromatic, neutral palette,” says the homeowner, “but Steve convinced me that we really needed to add some color. He was right; the blue accents add depth and interest to each room.”

An elegantly appointed living room envelops you in its refined beauty, while a classically designed fireplace with Hollywood Regency flair heightens the drama of the sophisticated space. The adjacent dining room sparkles with a magnificent Murano glass chandelier hovering like a glistening tiara above a stunning walnut table.

Just down the hall and tailored to perfection, the elegant master bedroom evokes a feeling of old Hollywood glamour that is at once polished and luxurious. Soft draperies surround the room and  superbly complete the exquisite space. Roommates Bunny and Bear, four year-old Pekinese cuties, are right at home on sumptuous mohair and chenille-covered chairs. These surprisingly pet-friendly fabrics were a must for the homeowner. “I wanted everything to be beautiful,” he says, “but I needed to be practical in my choices, as well. Steve was great at helping me strike just the right balance.”

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a grand place to watch the world below. Careful not to distract from the outside vistas, Steve has expertly dressed the windows in understated drapery panels of silk, linen and cotton. “It’s all about the view in a high-rise,” the homeowner adds. “Even though I enjoy city life, it’s wonderfully relaxing and yet rejuvenating to watch nature unfold as the seasons change. It’s really the best of both worlds. And at night, even with the sheers closed, you can still see the city lights. It’s very romantic.”

Fabric and grasscloth wallcoverings by Ralph Lauren and Kravet are seen throughout the condo. A signature look for Steve, he feels that fabric wallcoverings add an extra special touch, especially for new construction. “They give the space a sense of age,” he says, “more so than paint alone. Plus, they absorb sound, helping to create a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.”

The homeowner’s fascination with mid-century furniture design is evident everywhere you look, with modern marvels thoughtfully chosen to enhance his living space.

Starring roles are played by a vintage 1950s classic Hans Wegner-designed chair that sits regally in a corner of the homeowner’s office and two spectacular 1940s Murano glass lamps that he proudly displays in his guest room. “I love Murano glass,” he says. “These two lamps were purchased at Rothschild’s Antiques here in the Central West End. It is very unusual to find lamps this old without any chips in them. I was excited because these were in pristine condition.”

Not to be upstaged by this wonderful assembly of mid-century beauty, the homeowner has amassed amazing artworks that provide visual punch and literally make his home come alive. “I love to collect contemporary and pop art,” says the homeowner, whose beautiful condo is lavished with an incredible collection that includes the “Cosmic ’60s” iconic art style of Peter Max; the brightly colored whimsical pop art of Charles E. Houska; and the illusionary optical or “Op Art” of local artist Charles Blood. Also on display is the eye-popping “Cereal Box” series by Burton Morris.

The owner’s collection is a showcase of media, including an explosion of color in paintings by Mark Weber and Michael Hoffman. The display also presents the arresting works of laser-cut steel by Bernard Collin, imposing bronze sculptures by Tom Corbin, the unique stainless steel sculptures of Luis Efe Velez, the striking metal sculptures of Curtis Jere, and the playful artistry of Jeff Koons. An exciting juxtaposition against the home’s serene background, this dynamic array of artistic expression is positively dazzling.

Truly a dramatic and brilliant master-piece, this sublime urban condominium is award-winning in every way. Oscar would be proud.

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DRAMATIC DESIGN TIPS

From interior designer Steve Toedebusch of Frank Patton Interiors

• Neutral backgrounds are ideal for making contemporary artwork pop.
• Layering fabrics on windows helps to control light and temperature.
• Figuring out your lighting plan is crucial when designing your space. It helps so much to know exactly where to put outlets so as to best highlight artwork and other special pieces.
• In homes with a modern perspective, drapery is best hidden behind woodworK to give a streamlined and clean appearance. (Air conditioning vents and heat registers can also be hidden in the woodwork so they are as inconspicuous as possible.)   
• Using a combination of brushed and polished nickel hardware adds interest. Plus, over time, nickel develops a nice patina, aging beautifully like silver.
• Painting the ceilings the same color as the walls lowers them and tends to warm up a space and make it cozier.

“Neutral backgrounds are ideal for making contemporary artwork pop.”
– Steve Toedebusch, interior designer