I know, I know - my floors have just been completed, but when you are renovating your home it is never too early to start thinking about decorating. Hence my recent trip to the Design & Decoration Building in Manhattan - or D&D as the insiders call it! With over 120 showrooms and 3,000 manufacturers, it is an emporium of resources for designers and tradespeople like myself. I could easily spend an entire afternoon there, as I very nearly did! To streamline the visit, I decided to focus on 4 showrooms only.
First up: Rogers and Goffigon. Their fabrics are milled in Europe and come in a variety of luxurious textures in refined, muted tones. Curran Online is a great online distributor - check out their selection of Rogers & Goffigon here.
Next, I stopped by Maharam's showroom. I forgot how boundless their collection always seems - ranging from classic twentieth century designs to textiles with more contemporary twists.
A trip to the D&D wouldn't be complete without checking out Larsen's fabrics. Larsen was founded in 1952 by Jack Lenor Larsen, the internationally celebrated textile designer. In the fifty-plus years since it's inception, Larsen's fabrics have become a go-to for designers seeking innovative, sophisticated textiles that celebrate both classic and modern weaving techniques, and a multitude of style inspired by every corner of the world. Their website, www.larsenfabrics.com, has lovely photos of their current and past collections.
Last but not least was Hinson. Harry Hinson's company, founded in 1972, is dedicated to timeless classics, inspired by historical patterns and classic forms. Their fabrics are truly time-honored - you won't see any fad or trend here, only superb design with a proclivity towards comfort and good taste.
If you are in New York and in need of a interior designer, whether it be for a small space or entire home renovation, let me suggest setting up an appointment through D&D's Designer Referral Program. Not only does this service allow you access to the D&D Building, you are also invited to peruse through a variety of designer's portfolios, while a representative from their service helps you locate someone who fits your individual style and budget. Of course, you can always check back here for tips!
D&D Building
979 Third Ave
New York, NY 10022
212.759.5408
*Designer Referral Program, 212.759.5408, x.204













From: catherine | 1/20/10 at 11:09 pm
OMG, all those fabulous colors on that table. I would snap up one of each and do pillows or drapes or dining chairs, somewhere where the colors can all be together.
Cat