I leave you this week with one of my all time favorite interiors, the Manhattan apartment of the late, great Bill Blass…famous for his American sportswear, Blass was also a passionate collector of antiques…in fact, when on the road, he would ask friends about the best antique shops and he never went anywhere without a list! His prized collection of antiques was auctioned off by Sotheby’s back in 2003 and included rare pieces such as a writing and reading stand, circa 1810, that was originally from the House of Commons and was on a list of furniture salvaged from the fire at the Houses of Parliament in 1834…
He knew how to buy, but more importantly, he knew how to create a stunning environment…every piece, every detail, was elevated to a higher level…a lifetime of collecting united into a single work of art…pure genius
Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
“What I have here is the result of a lifetime of collecting. There is no relationship between the things themselves—except that I like them. You know how American women choose to wear a dress and invest it with their own spirit: I admire that sort of philosophy, and when I collect things, I choose how they are going to look in my life. The way I decorated here was to surround myself with the things I love…and they all have great dignity.” ~ Bill Blass
photos and resources from NY Times, S – B Long Interiors, Mark D. Sikes, Fashion Vs. Art
Oh my, just lovely. Thank you so much.
Classic, well chosen furniture and accessories. Every room carefully constructed and highly personal. Love it!
Bill Blass, so chic. thank you for the images. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com
Strong and beautiful!!!!!!!
It was pure bliss and pure BLASS—–yet the feeling of coldness and not having someone to share this vision is sad!!!!!!!!
I remember when I worked with him in N.Y. His office was pure glamour! I was totally starstruck and drooling over the womens fall collection that we were using as inspiration for his home fabrics collection. His 100 % cashmere sports coats melted in your hand like butter. He was soooo charming and knew how to put you at ease in his presence. He talked to me like we had known each other for years. Thanks for the post…great memories I will always treasure!
Karen, thank you for sharing this very personal story…what a wonderful memory… xo danielle