The Upper West Side, with its iconic Emery Roth buildings, is a dream come true for many. For Sarah Lederman, an interior designer and textile enthusiast, it was the perfect place to call home. Her prewar apartment, a duplex in one of these coveted buildings, is a testament to her creative vision and love for travel. Lederman's home is a harmonious blend of vintage finds, custom pieces, and her own textile line, Three Fates. This article explores how she transformed her dream home into a stunning space, incorporating her own designs and a nod to the building's Art Deco roots.
A Home with a Rich History
Lederman's apartment is a duplex, with public spaces on the first floor and private spaces on the second. This layout, she explains, is "very logical," allowing for a seamless flow between family areas and children's spaces. When the family moved in, there was surprisingly little to do, as the apartment already had a strong foundation. Lederman's design philosophy is to "not gut renovate," and her quick transformation of the space showcases her efficiency and creativity.
A Textile Designer's Touch
Lederman's textile line, Three Fates, is a reflection of her love for travel and architecture. Inspired by destinations like Bhutan, Morocco, Japan, and Peru, she captures the essence of these places through her designs. The collection features earthy color palettes and style names like Sirocco and Amphora, which draw from the natural landscapes and historical artifacts she encounters during her travels. The process of creating the line was meticulous, with watercolor designs hand-painted by an artist and then digitally printed as textiles and wallpapers.
A Home for Testing and Inspiration
The apartment itself serves as a living laboratory for Lederman's designs. Nearly all the pillows are in Three Fates fabrics, and two upholstered chairs are inspired by Ward Bennett's work. The powder room showcases her Celestia wallpaper, hand-watercolored to add depth and texture. The dining area features a sculptural banana fiber chandelier and a hand-painted white oak dining table, while the bedroom boasts custom ceramic lamps with hand-painted shades. These elements create a cohesive and imaginative interior, where Lederman's textiles and patterns seamlessly blend with the building's Art Deco roots and her personal style.
A Seamless Blend of Old and New
Lederman's attention to detail and respect for the building's history are evident throughout the apartment. The entry is anchored by an Art Deco Ruhlmann-inspired rug, and the Egyptian woven tapestry adds a touch of elegance to the living room. The use of limewashed walls and custom white oak millwork sets a warm and inviting tone. The combination of vintage finds, custom pieces, and her own textile line creates a unique and captivating space, where the past and present coexist harmoniously.
A Personal Haven in the City
Living on the same street as her parents and in the same building as her brother, Lederman has created a magical family bubble in the heart of the city. Her home is a testament to her creativity, love for travel, and respect for the building's history. The Three Fates patterns, with their natural and organic feel, enhance the apartment's charm and provide a sense of continuity with her personal style. As friends visit, they are unaware of the recent launch of her textile line, further emphasizing the seamless integration of her designs into her everyday life.
