3525 Turtle Creek in the 1990s

Over the weekend, I mentioned to Clinton Smith that I was working on a few posts about 3525 Turtle Creek, and of course he knew: 1) exactly which building I was writing about 2) that Greer Garson had once lived there and 3) that Elle Decor had published an apartment in the building back in 1999. (If you know Clinton, then you know that this kind of knowledge is hardly surprising. He has a mind like a steel trap.) He was kind enough to loan me the May 1999 issue of Elle Decor in which the apartment of real estate investor Pat Patterson was featured. Ms. Patterson purchased her penthouse unit at 3525 from the estate of Greer Garson. (You know, Mrs. Miniver.)

What is striking about the home- besides the brise-soleils outside of the windows, of course- is the blend of traditional antiques, modern furniture, and contemporary artwork. Who knew that Flora Danica and Yves Klein would get along so well together? But what I think that I admire most are those chairs covered in an animal print pony hair. The pair of chairs, as well as the living room's curved sofa, were purchased from Garson's estate. Obviously, Ms. Garson was one chic character, and I think it fair to say that Ms. Patterson is too.




A Platner table and chairs. (Did I ever mention that the first time I sat in a Platner chair was in the ladies clothing department at Neiman's? I sat there often while my mother tried on clothes.)

A view from the top.






Impressive looking bookshelves.






Patterson's collection of antique Flora Danica hangs above a traditional dining table and chairs. Greer Garson's circular sofa is in the foreground.





I love the juxtaposition of Flora Danica china and King Edward flatware against the backdrop of the brise-soleil. It gives the table setting an edge.





The kitchen still retained the original cooktop, ovens, and cabinets.

All images from Elle Decor, May 1999; Ka Yeung photographer.