Ellie Cullman

Project photos by Durston Saylor


A traditionally elegant 1901 New York townhouse transformed by Cullman & Kravis is now fresh, lively and suffused with ample doses of the owner’s favorite pink hues – from saturated magenta to shades of fuchsia, carnation and watermelon pink. The design is fresh, fun and sophisticated thanks to the judicious use of harmonious neutrals such as silvers, greys and whites, which keeps the pink tones from becoming cloying. An impressive collection of contemporary fine-art photography, with an emphasis on architectural themes and landscapes with water, provides a unifying thread throughout.

 

In the living room, the classical detail of the original marble mantel and the boldly framed mirror above it add structure to the room. Reflected in the mirror is a photograph by Candida Höfer, the perspective of the image giving the illusion of extending the room. Delicate mirrored sconces, a striated metallic silver paint treatment on the walls, and glass and chrome cocktail tables make the room sparkle. Yves Klein’s iconic Table Rose cocktail table of glass, plexiglass and stainless steel is filled with magenta pigment. Two Lawrence Beck photographs from his Italian Gardens series, which depicts landscapes that incorporate Palladian style architecture, hang on either side of the fireplace. At left, Marlia 1, 2010, and at right, Caserta 1, 2009.

German photographer Candida Höfer’s large scale 2006 Biblioteca do Palacio e Convento de Mafra I, is highly detailed and awash in pale pink light. She is known for her hauntingly beautiful images of empty interiors, with meticulous focus on architectural details and atmosphere, and notably devoid of people.

Traditional architectural elements form a subtle counterpoint to modern photography and furnishings. Photographer Robert Polidori’s Door Detail, Attique du Midi, Versailles from his monumental photographic series documenting the 20+ year restoration of Versailles hangs over a gleaming lacquered mid-century chest. Dangling above, a Murano glass flower ball mid-century chandelier.

A glimpse into the powder room with a selection of the couple’s black-and-white photography collection. Again, the rosy hue is tempered with the strong graphic frame of the mirror, and the neutral gray tones of mirrors and photography.

The dining room displays a collection of landscape photography above a mid-century sideboard.

The library introduces another unexpected color choice: lavender. This room is typically a bastion of conservative decor, but is fresh and lively with a lavender carpet and books covered in black and white, gray and lavender. Taxidermy pieces and a pair of sculptural horns are distinctive accents.

In the media room, neutrals abound, with geometric patterns and textures taking the lead. Another photograph by Candida Höfer, Palacio Nacional de Mafra VII, depicts a room filled with taxidermy specimens, echoing the pieces in the library.

The bedroom continues the lavender hue from the library and adds rich purple accents. A nightstand, styled after Tommi Parzinger and sculptural lamp contribute geometric precision.

An inviting combination of graceful daybed and modern floor lamp in chrome looks out onto the garden.

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