Have you ever visited a guild? Well how about a modern day multi-functioning authentic design haven in one of New York city's most artistic neighbourhoods?
Even though this is their first retail store, Roman & Williams is a well known interior design and architecture firm, founded in 2002 by Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch, a couple who named the firm after their grandfathers. Together they have done interior spaces for hotels, restaurants and buildings all around the world and are currently working on the interior for one of the galleries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Roman & Williams like to play with the opposites, put a modern touch on the historical, draw inspiration from different cultures but never simply imitate - instead create a familiar space that respects the values of the past but looks for the best of what today can offer, creating a space unlike anything you’ve seen.
The space houses a small locally grown wild flower shop and has the florist’s - Emily Thompson’s arrangements placed throughout the guild.
As if we weren’t happy already, a luxurious French café (run by Marie-Aude Rose and soon to be a restaurant) can also be found under the guild's historic roof. The cafe’s furniture and eating equipment is up for sale and you are more than welcome to stroll through the store with a nice cup of coffee or a glass of wine in your hands. Almost like visiting a design gallery, don't you think?
To see more projects from Standefer and Alesch visit their website.
Image source: The Cool Hunter Journal.
