Beyond the rich espresso tones and enlarged damask patterns, Gramercy Park’s model suite is a designer’s love letter to Manhattan.
David Hendricks just spent a weekend in New York City, staying at the famed Gramercy Park hotel, when he began as senior interior designer at Guidelines. That fateful trip would collide with his first project — a suite for Malibu Investment Inc.’s Manhattan-inspired condominium on Wilson Ave. and Tippet Rd.
“The original Gramercy Park hotel became my inspiration,” said Hendricks. “The suite brings the moody city feel of New York in the wintertime to Toronto.”
Throughout the two-bedroom unit, a neutral colour palette of light blues and taupe is dramatically offset by dark maple furniture. The theme is carried into the living room, where shadowy photos of horizons hang opposite a beige ultra-suede sofa.
Mimicking the original Gramercy Park’s off-the-cuff style, Hendricks paired classic design with modern elements. Although a pale brown rug in the living area features a traditional damask pattern, the design has been enlarged.
“We were trying to create a luxurious feeling,” said Hendricks, who described his style as contemporary with a nod to the traditional.
To accommodate an older demographic, the design moves beyond aesthetics.
“Empty nesters bring a lot of stuff with them,” said Hendricks. “They’ll move from a bigger place but won’t get rid of a dozen sentimental items.”
Four espresso-stained benches line a wall in the den. Topped with silk cushions, the average visitor might never suspect they’re storage units, perfect for hiding extra linen or dishes. As well, full extension drawers are also featured in the office and den. Gramercy Park suites range from 500 to more than 1,100 square feet and cost between $169,990 and $399,990.
