The Talented Mr. Adams

About a year ago, I first read about designer Richard Adams' chic London flat in the New York Times. I remember thinking how cosmopolitan and urbane it was! I believe his home resonated with me because it was quite similar to my supremely stylish Manhattan apartment- you know, the one in my head. (Some people long for a house by the sea or a chateau in France. Not me. I've dreamed of an apartment at The Carlyle since I was ten. I didn't realize it at the time that my dream would require so much hard work and so much cash!)

Though the flat, located in Chelsea, is really quite small, it's loaded with style. What makes this space so alluring to me is the fact that the apartment is richly colored and richly appointed. Though I was not such a fan of green, Richard's living room made me a convert. How can you not find pea-green colored silk beautiful when it's used on walls, sofas, and lamp shades? And how gorgeous is that red bedroom? I think red is a difficult color for bedrooms, but it works here- so decadent!

The other thing that makes this home so striking is the abundance of gleaming surfaces. Mirror is used in the living room and bedroom (but tastefully!). There is a Venini crystal chandelier, a wonderful crystal sunburst clock, and highly polished floors. Let's face it- this is that type of nighttime apartment in which you long to be a guest. The place where you want to wear your best and where you know the conversation will be lively and hopefully just a bit naughty.

(Richard is truly a fascinating person. An American by birth, Richard's background is in the New York fashion and advertising industries. While in New York, he soaked in the glamour that surrounded him- and when you've met and worked with the likes of Diana Vreeland, Billy Baldwin, Andy Warhol, and Truman Capote, it's understandable.

Not one to let the grass grow beneath his feet, Richard moved to London a few years ago to establish an interior design practice. He now divides his time between London, Budapest, and Qatar! I think it's encouraging to know that there are still cosmopolitan aesthetes who jet around the world experiencing all kinds of fabulous things. Visit his website for the entire story.)


The divine red bedroom. How fabulous is that crystal sunburst clock!


These glass bookshelves are so clever and perfect for a small space. Don't you love the books that are facing out: "Shocking!", "Snobs", and "Unsuitable Company".


A view of the gorgeous green silk living room with the red bedroom beyond.


The hall with its shimmery bronze papered walls.


The bathroom that was inspired by those at The Carlyle (perhaps it's the shared love of the Carlyle that explains why Richard and I are on the same wavelength.)

Image at top: The living room that captivated me. Need I say anymore?

(All images except that of the bath from English Eccentric Interiors; image of bathroom courtesy of Richard Adams)