Table of Contents
A photograph of Taylor Mitchell hangs above a 17th-century fireplace in the living room, where Italian armchairs mix with a club chair and a custom-made sofa, around the Misha Kahn cocktail table.
Foto Stephen Kent Johnson
An eclectic style decor
The decor draws on the designer’s vast collection of personal treasures, along with new acquisitions. «Do I have a plan? No, I don’t have one,” reflects Stilin, who has enlisted his son Dylan as an expert project manager. “Like every other house I’ve had, but this time much more, this apartment was a laboratory.” The references to the France of the 50s, 60s and 70s create a leitmotif, some by an unknown author, others with a refined pedigree, such as the dining table by Pierre Chapo, the desk chair by Pierre Guariche and the shutter by Jean Prouvé.
In the master bathroom, a painting by Alexander May mixes with a ceramic panel by Georges Jouve and a ceiling light by Franco Albini.
Foto Stephen Kent Johnson
Suggestions from great Italian design
Post-war Italy also offers continuous inspiration, as in the mirror, the rosewood shelf and the wall lamps by Gino Sarfatti that make up the improvised entrance, but also in the twin armchairs by Franco Albini in the living room. And there are many exceptions to any rule, such as an original armchair by the Campana brothers, stools by Rick Owens and an incredible coffee table by Misha Kahn. «I am attracted by beautiful things», underlines Stilin, «but first of all by comfortable and functional things».
**What were some of the key challenges and triumphs in ensuring that Michael Stilin’s artistic vision, with its emphasis on personal narratives and comfort, was realized within the functional constraints of a living space?**
## A Conversation on Curating Comfort: Unpacking Michael Stilin’s Eclectic Apartment
**Welcome to World Today News’s “Inside Design” series, where we delve into the minds and spaces of inspiring individuals shaping the design landscape. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Michael Stilin, the renowned designer behind this stunning apartment, and his son Dylan Stilin, whose project management expertise brought this vision to life.**
**Part I: A Tapestry of Treasures: Functionality Meets Personal Narratives**
**(To Michael)** Your apartment evades easy categorization, blending diverse eras and styles. Can you speak about the philosophy behind your design choices? Was there a conscious effort to create a specific mood or atmosphere, or did the space evolve organically as you curated your collection?
**(To Dylan)** Michael mentions this apartment serving as a “laboratory.” What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as project manager in facilitating this experimental approach? How did you ensure Michael’s artistic vision was realized while addressing the practical needs of a functional living space?
**(To both)** The article highlights the presence of family heirlooms alongside contemporary pieces. How do you see this interplay between inherited objects and new acquisitions shaping the character and narrative of the apartment? Does it speak to a sense of continuity and evolution within your personal design history?
**Part II: Drawing Inspiration: French Heritage and Italian Flair**
**(To Michael)** The article mentions a strong influence from French design of the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Could you elaborate on what specifically draws you to this period? Are there particular designers you admire, or any specific elements of the aesthetic that resonate deeply with you?
**(To both)** The article celebrates Italian design. Can you discuss the role of Italian artisans and designers in your own design language? Do you see any parallels between their approach and Michael’s own design philosophy?
**(To Dylan)** Did you encounter any unique challenges in sourcing specific Italian pieces? Were there any particularly memorable moments during the acquisition process?
**Part III: Comfort as a Guiding Principle**
**(To Michael)** You state that you are attracted to both “beautiful and comfortable” things. How do you reconcile these seemingly opposing concepts within your design process? What strategies do you employ to ensure both aesthetics and functionality are equally addressed?
**(To Dylan)** Was this emphasis on comfort a guiding principle throughout the project? How did you ensure that the chosen furniture pieces weren’t just beautiful objects, but also conducive to everyday living?
**(To both)** In your opinion, what is the most important element in creating a space that is both visually striking and deeply personal?
**Closing Remarks**
**(To both)** Michael and Dylan, thank you for sharing your insights into this extraordinary space. Your collaboration has resulted in a truly unique and inspirational home. What advice would you offer to others who aspire to create similarly curated and comfortable living environments?
**We’d like to thank our guests for their time and valuable perspectives. For our readers, stay tuned for more fascinating conversations on design and lifestyle in our upcoming “Inside Design” series.
