New Beginning

I cannot believe that it's been already a year since that fabulous Elle Decor party launching the grand opening of the 1stdibs floor at the New York Design Center (200 Lexington Avenue, NYC) on February of 2011.  Indeed, it has been a year of growing and learning for everyone involved (from 1stdibs to NYDC to us dealers).  For me, especially, new into this whole amazing world of design, NY has been somewhat of a culture shock -- in a fantastic kind of way.  Being the only one on the 1stdibs floor from New Orleans (actually, the only one south of the Mason-Dixon line for that matter!), it has proven to be quite the challenge.  But I'm loving every single moment of it.

On Friday, I flew up to NYC for the day and with the enormous help of my friend, Sandy Foster, who unsolicitedly took the day off to drive to the city, pick me up from the airport and spend the entire day helping me do the work of at least 4 strong men (which we didn't have!), to redo my entire gallery at the NYDC.

Sandy managed to get us one of those industrial dollies from the loading dock downstairs and the two of us lifted and pulled and moved all the furniture into my new space.  We worked until the lights went out and walked out with the sales team who wondered what kind of vitamins two skinny girls in 3 inch heels took to be able to do what we did that day.

We were so down to the wire that I did not have time to snap any photos of my new space, other than these two "action" photos that Sandy took with her cell phone (probably by accident) before we were done.  But at least it's a bit of a sneak preview.   I cannot wait for my White Feather Murano Glass Chandelier to arrive from Italy next week to complete the look.

 Adding a sheepskin throw on the back of my gorgeous 19th c. Louis XV Serpentine Back Walnut Sofa.

Very chaotic at this point but you can get the jest of it.

Needless to say, I was near comatose yesterday and every one of my muscles (muscles which I did not even know I had) ached.  But it felt so good!!!!!

So here is to another year at 1stdibs@NYDC.  If you haven't already done so and you happen to be in Manhattan, stop by and visit.  The 1stdibs floor (on the 10th floor) is open to both the trade and public Monday through Saturday and the sales team there (John, Nancy, Blair, and Stefania) as well as general manager Louise Tanis are ready to help you find that absolute perfect piece for you.

For any of the pieces you see in these photos, please visit my 1stdibs store at www.KarinaGentinetta.1stdibs.com

Have a wonderful day wherever this post finds you.

Timeless Beauty

Rare 19th c. Serpentine Back Louis XV Walnut Sofa

France
c. 1850

This sofa or settee has a bench style seat that is solid and sturdy and a rare serpentine back that follows the soft curves of the wooden walnut frame. Completely restored down to the 8 way hand tied springs and newly upholstered in a simple white cotton canvas fabric. Handcarved walnut frame with shell carvings on cabriole legs and front. Exquisite detail and patina. Deep, comfortable sofa that can easily accommodate 3 adults.

Sigh....

To view this piece and others in my inventory, please visit my 1stdibs storefront.